50 Years of Bangladesh-U.S. Relations and Beyond

Bangladesh has made tremendous progress in the last 50-plus years since its independence in 1971. It has made strides in female empowerment, seen infant mortality plunge, and significantly increased literacy rates. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Bangladesh was one of the fastest growing economies in the world. In 2019, its GDP growth rate exceeded 8 percent. Its growth has been supported by a demographic dividend, stable macroeconomic conditions, and strong garment exports. The United States has played an important role in supporting Bangladesh’s socio-economic growth, sending more than $7 billion in development assistance since 1971.

Nevertheless, Bangladesh still sees ongoing challenges with vaccinations of its very dense populations, increased inequality brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, and the continued crisis management of Rohingya refugees. There are many ways for the United States to support Bangladesh with its Covid-19 recovery, while promoting Bangladesh’s sustainable growth for the next 50 years.

CSIS is pleased to welcome the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, Dr. AK Abdul Momen, and the USAID Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programming, Dr. Isobel Coleman to talk about the role of U.S. foreign assistance in Bangladesh’s success, and the future U.S.-Bangladesh partnership for the next 50 years.

This event was made possible through general support to CSIS.