The US delegation included Deputy Chief of Mission Megan Bouldin today paid a courtesy call on Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad Md Nurul Islam at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Photo : PID

DHAKA, May 19, 2026 (BSS) – A United States(US) delegation stationed in Bangladesh today paid a courtesy call on Chief Whip of the Jatiya Sangsad Md Nurul Islam at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office here.

The US delegation included Deputy Chief of Mission Megan Bouldin, Political Counselor of  the US Embassy in Dhaka Eric Gilan and Political Specialist Firoz Ahmed.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed Bangladesh’s parliamentary democracy, democratic progress, the country’s renewed democratic journey, expansion of economic and trade relations, sessions of the Jatiya Sangsad and the National Parliament building.

The Chief Whip said the United States had always stood beside Bangladesh in its democratic journey, said a press release.

“The United States and Bangladesh enjoy excellent trade relations. The US is one of the major markets for Bangladesh’s readymade garments sector,” he said.

Referring to the government’s efforts to create digital IT-based employment, he expressed hope that the technologically advanced United States would extend cooperation in this regard.
Highlighting the present government’s economic initiatives, the Chief Whip said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been working relentlessly to stabilise the country’s economy.

“He has undertaken various programmes, including Family Card, Farmers’ Card and agricultural loan waiver schemes, to improve the living standards of marginalised people,” he said, adding that a smooth democratic process was essential for implementing such initiatives.

“Without democracy, development in any sector is not possible,” he added.

Describing parliament as the centre of democracy, the Chief Whip said people always remember with deep respect renowned architect Louis I. Kahn, the designer of the Jatiya Sangsad building.

Megan Bouldin described the parliament complex as a strong symbol of the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

“American architecture students often wish to visit this building as it is regarded as one of Louis Kahn’s greatest works,” she said.

She said the United States always believes in the independence, democracy and sovereignty of every nation.

The US delegation also praised Bangladesh’s labour law reforms, saying the steps were being viewed very positively in Washington.

They noted that important provisions, including anti-corruption measures, environmental protection and prevention of wildlife trafficking, had been incorporated into bilateral agreements.

The delegation further mentioned US assistance worth US$90 million over five years to help Bangladesh combat infectious diseases in the health sector.

During the discussion on democracy and future bilateral relations, both sides stressed that Bangladesh is a friendly democratic country and that ongoing economic reforms would encourage more American companies to invest in Bangladesh.

They expressed optimism that Bangladesh-US relations would become stronger, more sustainable and rise to a new height beyond formal documentation and agreements.

Senior officials of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat were present at the meeting.