US Ambassador Brent Christensen Impressed by Panam City, Traditional Jamdani and Nakshi Kantha

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent Christensen has expressed admiration for the historic Panam City and the Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation in Sonargaon, Narayanganj, praising the region’s ancient architecture and traditional craftsmanship.

During his brief visit, the US diplomat explored historic buildings, traditional Jamdani sarees and intricately embroidered Nakshi Kantha quilts. He also expressed satisfaction with the environment and cleanliness of Panam City.

Christensen arrived at Panam City with a delegation at around 8:30am on Monday. His tour began with a visit to Building No. 33, followed by visits to several other historic buildings and structures across the ancient settlement.

Tanjilur Rahman, assistant custodian of Panam City, said the visit was a family trip, with the ambassador accompanied by members of his family.

After completing his tour of Panam City, Christensen visited the Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation at around 9am. There, he explored Karupalli, known for its Nakshi Kantha craftsmanship, and Jamdani Palli, where traditional handwoven sarees are produced.

The ambassador was particularly impressed by the intricate designs of the handwoven Jamdani sarees and the detailed needlework of the Nakshi Kantha quilts.

However, due to time constraints, he could not visit the foundation’s museum or the historic Boro Sardar Bari.

Kazi Mahbubul Alam, director of the Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation, said the ambassador observed artisans weaving Jamdani sarees by hand and expressed admiration for the craftsmanship of both Jamdani textiles and Nakshi Kantha quilts.

“He said he would visit the foundation again,” Alam said.

Members of the ambassador’s delegation included his personal security officer Delwar Hossain, Political Officer Alice Kennedy, embassy spokesperson Purnima Ray, security officer Aric Wells and Foreign Service National Investigator at the US Embassy Sheikh Shibli, among others.

Sonargaon Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Abdul Barik and other relevant officials and staff were also present during the visit.