Special Correspondent, Dhaka:
Bangladesh is seeking broader international support to stabilize its economy, manage debt, and strengthen energy security, as the United States and China have indicated willingness to cooperate in key areas of economic development.
The assurances came during separate meetings between Bangladesh’s delegation and officials from the US Treasury Department and China’s Export-Import Bank on the sidelines of the IMF-World Bank annual meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, according to officials cited by The Business Standard on October 14.
China Exim Bank expressed interest in expanding investment in Bangladesh’s power and energy sectors. The bank’s chairman is also expected to visit Dhaka next week, potentially creating an opportunity to discuss future financing and investment initiatives.
Washington, meanwhile, has offered cooperation on debt management and bilateral relations. The discussions come as Bangladesh seeks to strengthen ties with major economic partners while securing external financing to support its recovery.
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said Bangladesh had received less American support than expected in the past but hoped improved bilateral relations would lead to greater assistance. He cited Bangladesh’s purchases of American aircraft and imports of products, including soybeans, as grounds for stronger economic cooperation.
US engagement is also significant for Bangladesh’s efforts to secure support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where Washington holds substantial influence through its voting power.
Prime Minister’s Economic Adviser Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir said international financial institutions and US officials recognized the economic difficulties inherited by the current government, including high inflation. The Middle East conflict has added further pressure, he said, while development partners have acknowledged the government’s efforts to address the challenges.
The government expects greater clarity on assistance within the next two to three months.
However, the latest assurances do not necessarily translate into immediate financing commitments. Bangladesh’s recovery will depend on the terms, scale, and timing of external support, alongside domestic reforms to strengthen fiscal management, contain inflation, and improve energy-sector resilience.
Engagement with both Washington and Beijing could broaden Bangladesh’s financing options, but converting diplomatic goodwill into sustainable economic gains will remain the central challenge.
