Overview
- Bangladesh National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman met Under‑Secretary Allison Hooker and Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur in Washington for discussions ahead of the February election.
- Hooker reaffirmed U.S. support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and said the United States looks forward to a free and fair vote.
- Rahman sought relief from new visa‑bond requirements, including exemptions for B1 business visas, and Hooker said the request would be positively considered with a review tied to reduced overstay rates.
- Bangladesh requested access to U.S. International Development Finance Corporation financing and support for semiconductor development, which Hooker said Washington would consider.
- Rahman raised Bangladesh’s willingness in principle to join a Gaza stabilization force, and Hooker indicated the United States is prepared to work with Dhaka on the idea, while both sides also discussed sustained support and burden‑sharing for Rohingya refugees.