State Department Correspondent
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
In a press briefing on the Indo-Pacific Strategy: Two Years Later, Afreen Akhter, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, responded to inquiries from State Department correspondent Mushfiqul Fazal regarding the alignment of the Indo-Pacific Strategy with Bangladesh's evolving dynamics.
Speaking alongside Camille Dawson, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, the conversation primarily focused on democratic principles and their integration into the Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Fazal raised questions about Bangladesh's political landscape, inquiring about the alignment of the Indo-Pacific Strategy with the country amidst concerns over its shift towards an authoritarian regime. He also brought up the ruling prime minister's criticisms of the Indo-Pacific Strategy.
In response, Akhter emphasized the US' dedication to engaging Bangladeshi society through initiatives like the South Asia Governance Fund. She outlined efforts to build civic space, collaborate with farmers, labor organizers, and various civil society actors, aiming to fortify democratic institutions over the long term.
Shifting to broader priorities, Akhter highlighted the alignment between the US strategy and Bangladesh's outlook, spanning economic investment, climate change collaboration, and enhanced security cooperation. The discussion then turned towards addressing democracy and human rights concerns in Bangladesh.
Fazal inquired about specific US initiatives to support the return to democracy in Bangladesh, acknowledging criticisms, including a Wall Street Journal piece suggesting a shift away from democracy promotion.
In her reply, Akhter reiterated the US' commitment to building democratic institutions in Bangladesh. She underscored ongoing efforts with media, civil society, and labor organizers, emphasizing the nurturing of these institutions to lay the foundation for Bangladesh's democratic future.
As the conversation unfolded, it became evident that the US remains dedicated to collaborating with Bangladesh to strengthen democratic values and institutions, reinforcing a commitment to democracy and human rights in the region.
MR/
