Is the Water War imminent?

M A Hossain, 

With the world's population increasing and climate change worsening water scarcity, the likelihood of a global water war grows. Due to water being a finite resource, conflicts over water are becoming more prevalent as demand surpasses supply. The United Nations estimates that by 2025, half of the world's population will live in water-stressed areas, increasing the urgency of this issue. Water wars are conflicts between nations concerning access to water resources, which can be triggered by population growth, climate change, and irregular distribution of water resources. In the future, water wars may become more frequent as nations compete for access to this vital resource.

The concept of a water war is not new. Historically, water has been a cause of conflict in many parts of the world. The Tigris-Euphrates river system, for example, has been the subject of disputes between Turkey, Syria, and Iraq for decades. In recent years, tensions have risen over the construction of dams and the diversion of water resources, leading to fears of a potential conflict.

The potential for conflict over water resources is particularly acute in regions where water is already scarce. The Middle East, for example, is home to some of the world's most water-stressed nations. The Nile River, which provides water to over 300 million people, is also a source of tension for the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia.

China's Mekong Dam initiative on the Mekong River has resulted in a protracted period of aridity in the neighbouring nations of Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Vietnam. On the other hand, the Itaipu hydroelectric facility, situated on the banks of the Parana River that demarcates the Brazil-Paraguay border, has emerged as a potential cause of conflict between the two nations.

South Asia is home to over 1.7 billion people, many of whom face significant water challenges. The region is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with rising temperatures and changing weather patterns leading to increased water scarcity. The Himalayan region, which is a crucial source of freshwater for the region, is also under threat from melting glaciers and artificial obstacles in the natural flow. As a result, conflicts over water resources are becoming more common in the region, with disputes over the sharing of river waters between India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh being particularly contentious. 

Water wars are a potential consequence of climate change and population growth. As the global population increases, the water demand will also increase, leading to competition for limited resources. This competition could lead to conflict between countries, and regions. In some cases, water wars could be fought over access to water resources, while in other cases, they could be fought over control of water resources.

Climate change could lead to an increase in extreme weather cases, such as floods and droughts, which could further exacerbate the water crisis. Already, we are seeing the effects of climate change on water availability. In some parts of the world, droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, while in others, rising sea levels are contaminating freshwater resources.

A hydro-crisis could also be triggered by a sustained El Niño event, which is a periodic warming of the central Pacific Ocean. If we have a prolonged period of warm water in the central Pacific Ocean, it can underscore the drought that’s already happening in certain regions.

Another factor contributing to the likelihood of water wars is the unequal distribution of water resources. Many of the world's largest rivers cross national borders, and countries upstream have an advantage in terms of water access. This has led to tensions between upstream and downstream nations, as the former can use their control of water resources as a political bargaining chip.

Water wars are not limited to disputes between nations. In some cases, conflicts over water can arise within a single country. In India, for example, the distribution of water resources between different states has led to violent clashes between farmers and other groups.  Water resources like the Nile, Ganges- Brahmaputra in the Indian subcontinent, the Indus river in Asia, and the Tigris-Euphrates and Colorado rivers are highlighted as potential hotspots. 

The potential for water wars highlights the need for global cooperation to manage this vital resource. The UN has acknowledged water as a human right, and efforts are underway to improve water management and conservation. However, more needs to be done to address the underlying causes of water scarcity and prevent conflicts from arising.

One solution is to invest in infrastructure to increase water efficiency and reduce waste. Desalination plants, for example, can provide a reliable source of freshwater in coastal areas, while water recycling systems can help reduce the demand for freshwater resources. Investing in these technologies can help ensure that water is used more sustainably and reduce the risk of conflicts over water resources.

Another approach is to promote international cooperation and dialogue to manage shared water resources. The UN has established some initiatives to promote cooperation between nations, including the Water for Life Decade and the International Year of Water Cooperation. These efforts aim to build trust and collaboration between nations and reduce the risk of conflicts over water resources.

Historically, wars have been fought over land, resources, and economic gain. But,

the prospect of water wars in the future is a very real one. As water becomes scarcer and demand continues to rise, conflicts over water resources are likely to become more expected. However, by investing in water efficiency and promoting global cooperation, we can help ensure that water is used more sustainably and reduce the risk of conflicts over this vital resource. The need for action is pressing, and the time to act is now.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh. 

Email: writetomahossain@gmail.com

This article published at :

1. The Asian Age, BD:28Mar23

2. The Business Standard, BD:16Apr23

3. Pakistan Observer, Pakistan :06May23

Reshaping security dynamics in the Middle East.

M A Hossain,

Iran and Saudi Arabia are two of the most influential and rival countries in the Middle East(ME).  These two rivals have been engaged in a power struggle to establish their dominance in the region, and their rivalry has had far-reaching consequences not only in the region but also on the global stage. Recently, Riyadh and Tehran announced of restoring full diplomatic relations in an agreement brokered by China. Obviously, that could reduce tensions in the Middle East and assert China's growing influence in the Gulf. China’s powerful and rising diplomatic presence in the Gulf is reshaping the security dynamics, and it contributes to a narrative of a shrinking US global presence.

The tumultuous tale of Iran-Saudi Arabia animosity dates back to the epochal 1979 Islamic revolution that upended the Persian nation. As the years rolled on, this hostility intensified and reached a boiling point during the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s. Saudi Arabia and a host of other Arab countries brazenly backed Iraq in their relentless strife against Iran. Fast-forward to the Arab Spring in 2011, and this longstanding rivalry took on a fresh and fevered pitch. In the cauldron of political upheaval, both nations seized an opportunity to exert their influence and gain an upper hand in the tumultuous region. Unsurprisingly, the belligerent duo opted for a proxy war strategy, with Iran providing support to Shia-militia, while Saudi Arabia offered its backing to Sunni tribes. The battlegrounds of this ferocious feud spanned far and wide, from Lebanon and Yemen to Bahrain, Iraq, and Syria.

The animosity between Iran and Saudi Arabia has had profound and wide-ranging repercussions both regionally and globally. The strife in Syria has resulted in the dislocation of millions of individuals and has destabilised the region. Similarly, the conflict in Yemen has triggered a humanitarian catastrophe, with millions of individuals confronted with starvation and illness. These two nations are significant oil producers on the international stage, and any discord between them can have a disruptive effect on the global oil market. Furthermore, the emergence of extremist Islamic organisations, such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda, in that area, represents an opportunity cost resulting from the ongoing tension between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

 

China possesses the ability to intervene in the Middle Eastern region and mediate in the diplomatic relationships between Iran and Saudi Arabia, to the detriment of American interests and sway. Saudi Arabia has been a crucial cornerstone of the United States' ties within the area. However, Saudi Arabia gradually altered its policies after the 9/11 attacks, and the US failed to lend its support in response to the Iranian attack on Abqaiq in 2019. The Western world has advocated for the cessation of arms sales to Saudi Arabia during the Yemeni conflict. Furthermore, Riyadh's choice to sever diplomatic relations with Qatar in 2017 was deemed controversial by the USA.

 On the other hand, in December 2022, Iran and China agreed to a 25-year deal aimed at enhancing their relationship. China has also entered into a five-year plan with six Gulf nations. It is apparent that China is actively seeking to broaden its connections within the region, and the collaboration between Iran and Saudi Arabia to cooperate with China in achieving normalisation between them is indicative of China's ascension to a strategic partner within the region.

China has emerged as a significant patron of oil from Saudi Arabia and Iran. Its adeptness in fostering cordial ties with the countries flanking the Persian Gulf has enabled it to amass diplomatic capital that exceeds that of other non-regional powers. Notably, the United States' influence in Tehran is conspicuously non-existent, whereas China has strategically employed the carrot of economic and developmental aid without showing the stick of punitive measures, to pursue its interests. Conversely, the US has typically resorted to punitive measures alone, lacking the diplomatic finesse that China possesses.

 

Unfortunately, Washington's standing as a peace broker in the vicinity has been undermined by its perceived unreliability and inclination to favour one side in disputes, as observed in Yemen and Syria. Conversely, China is regarded as a flexible mediator that refrains from favouring any particular side. Consequently, a higher number of regional stakeholders may seek China's assistance as a mediator in forthcoming endeavours.

Since the inception of the trillion-dollar initiative announced by the Chinese leader in 2013, over 200 major energy and infrastructure projects have been successfully completed in the region. Despite the significant challenges, many of the targets set by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have been achieved. During Xi's visit in December 2022, China and Saudi Arabia released a joint statement underscoring the importance of augmenting bilateral collaboration in military and security domains, with a focus on combating terrorism and extremism and upholding regional peace and stability. Additionally, China pledged its support to the Gulf states in maintaining their security, resolving conflicts through peaceful means, and developing a new and comprehensive security framework for the Gulf.

The recent re-establishment of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran has raised questions about the shift in power dynamics in the Middle East region. China's growing involvement in the region, particularly its close ties with Iran, has led many to believe that it is slowly replacing the United States as a key player in the region. Therefore, while China's increasing role in the region cannot be ignored, the US remains a vital security partner for the Gulf Arab states, and their strategic alliance is likely to continue in the foreseeable future.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh.

Email: writetomahossain@gmail.com

This article published :

1. South Asia Journal, NJ,USA :17Mar23

2. Modern Ghana, Ghana :17Mar23

3. Review Nepal, Kathmandu :17Mar23

4. The Asian Age, BD:18Mar23

The conflict between Qadiyani and Muslims.

M A Hossain, 

On 03 March 2023, there was a clash between police and some Islamist groups for postponing Ahmadiyya's Jalsa Salana(the annual convention) in Panchagarh. This news has intrigued me to know about the Ahmadiyya community. As Muslims, we must know the status of Ahmadiyya and their beliefs. In this article, I will explore the history of the Ahmadiyya movement, their beliefs, the difference between Ahmadiyya and mainstream Muslims, and the wrongdoing of mainstream Muslims in Bangladesh.

Ahmadiyya or Qadiyani is a so-called Islamic revival or messianic movement originating from Qadian in Punjab, British India, in 1889. The founder of the movement, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835 -1908) claimed to be a prophet of Islam(!), who also claimed to have been divinely appointed as both the promised Mahdi and Messiah expected by the Muslims to appear towards the end time of the universe.

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad established the community on March 23, 1889, by formally accepting allegiance from his supporters. Since his death, the community has been led by a succession of caliphs. The Qadiyanis have a strong missionary tradition and are almost entirely organised as a single, highly active missionary program in the world. The Qadiyani movement emerged in India with the help of the British East India Company. They published many books supporting the East India Company's rule and rendered jihad in its military form as inapplicable, which paved the way to divert the attention of trapped Muslims against British rule. Later, in 1913, this missionary organisation established its headquarters in London

Currently, the Qadiyani community has missionary branches in 213 countries, with significant concentrations in South Asia, West and East Africa, and Indonesia. Their estimated worldwide population is 10 million. In Bangladesh, they have 103 missionary branches and are established in 425 locations within the community.

Qadiyani believes in the fundamental teachings of Islam.  However, their belief in the prophethood of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad is what sets them apart from mainstream Muslims. Ghulam Ahmad believed that his message had special relevance for the Western world, which, he believed, had descended into materialism.  Aside from this belief in all Prophets in the Quran and the Old Testament, the community also regards Zoroaster, Krishna, Buddha, and Confucius as prophets. According to the Qadiyani beliefs, Hell is understood as a temporary abode, lasting an extremely long time but not everlasting, much like in mainstream Judaism.  Qadiyani also believes in the concept of the caliphate or spiritual leadership. They also believe in the concept of Jihad or striving in the way of God, but reject the use of force.

The difference in beliefs between mainstream Muslims and Qadiyanis are distinct. Qadiyani believes that Hazrat Isa (A)[Jesus] was crucified and survived the four hours on the cross and was later revived from a swoon in the tomb. They also believe that Jesus died in Kashmir of old age while seeking the Lost Tribes of Israel. This belief contradicts mainstream Muslims under Quranic verses chapter 4 verses 157, 158. Qadiyanis have different opinions on the meaning of 'Khataman Nabiyyan( the seal of the prophets)'. Muslims believe that Hazrat Muhammad (SM) is the last Prophet of Allah, but Qadiyani claims Ghulam Ahmad as their new prophet but subordinate to Muhammad(SM). This is drifted from chapter 33 verse 40 in the Quran. Qadiyanis do not believe that any verse of the Quran abrogates or cancels other verses, unlike mainstream Muslims.  The most important religious function of the Qadiyani is Jalsa salana, which does not have any entity in the duties of Islam.

Qadiyanis have been viewed as infidels and heretics by the Muslims.  The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation(OIC) formally declared that Ahmadiyya was not linked to Islam. Pakistan declared Ahmadi as non-Muslims and termed them as Qadiyani.  Some Islamist groups are demonstrating on demand to declare Qadiyani as non-Muslims in Bangladesh.

If we recall two incidents from the life of our Prophet (PBUH), there were two individuals who made false claims of prophecy: Musaylimah al-Kadhdhab in Yamama and Aswad Ansi in Yemen. Our Prophet (PBUH) declared war against Musaylimah's community and ordered a group to neutralize them until they returned with their submission. He also ordered to kill Aswad Ansi. However, our Prophet (PBUH) passed away before this task could be completed. Nonetheless, the first Caliph, Abu Bakr (R), made it his top priority to send the group to neutralize Musaylimah al-Kadhdhab and the first good news that he heard as Caliph was of Aswad Ansi's death at the hands of the group of Muslims.

In the context of Bangladesh, it is not an Islamic Emirate, and thus, the protesters should have sought the help of local law enforcement agencies to stop the open convention if it hurt the sentiments of Muslims. According to the OIC's resolution in 1973, the Bangladesh government must not allow this missionary organisation to deceive ordinary Muslims. As a secular country, individuals and groups are free to practice their religion within their own confines and make it an indoor activity. Islam does not permit causing maximum damage to infants, elderly women or men, or maximum loss of houses, wealth, or crops. If such damage occurs, then the responsibility lies with the Muslims or the leading organisations, and it would be a breach of the existing laws.

Many non-Muslims even Muslims, are not well aware of the differences between Qadiyani and Islam and often assume that Qadiyanis are the offshoot of Islam. This has led to confusion and misunderstanding about the nature of the Qadiyani movement. It is very well expected from the Muslim community to know the right thing and act rightfully.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh. 

Email: writetomahossain@gmail.com

This article published :

1. The Asian Age, Bangladesh :12Mar23

How regional jihad turned into global jihad after the twentieth century.

 M A Hossain, 

The concept of jihad has a long and complicated history in the Islamic world. The term "jihad" refers to the struggle to uphold one's faith and defend it against oppressors. Throughout history, jihad has taken many forms, including regional and global jihads. In the twentieth century, the concept of regional jihad gradually transformed into global jihad, with devastating consequences. In this article, we will explore how this transformation occurred.

The decline and fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1924 marked a significant inflexion point in the history of Islamic Jihad. For centuries, the Ottoman caliphate had served as the preeminent spiritual and political centre of the Islamic world. However, following the conclusion of World War I, the Ottoman Empire was dismantled by the British, French, and Soviet Union (Russia) according to the provisions of the Sykes-Picot Agreement. As a result, these powers occupied vast swaths of the Middle East, Africa, and Balkan regions respectively. The collapse of the Ottoman Empire created a power vacuum that left many Muslims feeling powerless and unable to take effective action. While there were a few local resistance movements against the occupying forces, these were met with swift and severe reactions. In the wake of the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Western ideology, which placed a premium on individualism, secularism, and nationalism, began to infiltrate Muslim societies and reshape the political landscape of the Muslim world.

Beginning in 1933, Germany and Italy rose to power on the global geopolitical stage, with leaders such as Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini seeking to expand their territorial and ideological influence across Europe and North Africa. Despite the overwhelming military might of the Axis powers, local Muslim populations in these regions refused to submit to their aggression without a fight. In Libya, for example, the Mujahideen engaged in defensive battles against Italian occupation, with figures like Omar al-Mukhtar leading the resistance.

In the wider Islamic world, various organizations arose to defend and establish Islamic emirates. These included Ikhwanul Muslimin(Egypt,1928), and Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (British India,1919). Jamaat-e-Islami(1941), aimed to promote Islamic values and establish Islamic rule. However, despite their lofty goals, these organizations ultimately lost sight of their original objectives and veered off course.

After WW-2, Britain and France faced tremendous economic and political setbacks.  Both of the colonies faced violent revolutions to be independent, and finally, they had to cede the power to their local allied successors.  Their descendants started to rule the nations with western ideology.  Over a period of time, this rule created a response to the perceived threat of Western encroachment and the erosion of Islamic values by the form of religious extremism and militancy. Western ideology created a barrier for the pan-islamic Emirates or Caliphate. 

The adaptation of Western values and ideologies was seen by Muslims as a betrayal of Islamic principles, and this created a fertile ground for the rise of regional Jihad. This regional Jihad was the struggle waged within a particular region or country, often against a specific government or group. They were generally focused on local issues and were carried out by unconventional fighters. The Palestinians' struggle against Israeli occupation, the Afghan resistance against Soviet invasion, Marwan Hadith's struggle in Somalia, Moravit(border guard) Movement in the Sahel region and the separatist movements in Kashmir or Chechnya, are all examples of regional Jihad. 

Global jihad, on the other hand, is a more recent phenomenon that emerged in the latter half of the twentieth century. It is characterized by a network of loosely affiliated groups that are united by a common ideology and a shared goal of waging war against the non-Islamic ideology to establish the Islamic Emirates. The origins of global jihad can be traced back to the Afghan resistance against Soviet occupation in the 1980s. Abdullah Azzam was the Mastermind of global jihad, who drew fighters from all over the Muslim world and created a sense of global solidarity among them in the Afghan conflict. In 1989, after the demise of Azzam, Osama bin Laden took the helm of this jihadist movement and named the organization Al-Qaeda(AQ).  After the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, these fighters returned to their home countries, spreading their ideology and laying the groundwork for future global jihads.

The then AQ's chief, Osama bin Laden, took the strategy of "strike the head of the snake" where the snake was the USA.  The conflict between the USA and AQ  was uneven and in no way comparable. So, Bin Laden wanted to drag the USA into a ghost war. AQ attacked the US military in various countries to achieve asymmetric attrition of war.  And the Manhattan Twin Towers attack changed the landscape of global terrorism, which allured the USA to attack Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. Bin Laden was successful in his strategy and replicated the US invasion as nothing but a war against Islam in front of Muslim youths. Thereby all regional jihadist groups were united under the umbrella of Al-Qaeda and rest we all know what happened in Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, Mali, Somalia, Burkina Faso, Niger and lastly Pakistan.

After analysing the movement patterns of AQ, it is apparent that the organisation follows a territorial strategy for initiating battle. This strategy involves targeting two types of Muslim countries: confined and open. Confined countries refer to those that are encircled by hostile non-Muslim countries and are not suitable for immediate conflict. On the other hand, open countries are bordered by 2-3 Muslim countries and meet six specific characteristics before AQ will consider opening a war front. These characteristics include: (1) having a border with 2/3 Muslim countries, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, (2) a lack of central government control over the entire country, such as in Somalia and Afghanistan, (3) mountainous, forested, or desert terrain, (4) easy access to illegal arms and ammunition, (5) pious and resolute people, and (6) dissatisfaction with the current ruling system. Once all six prerequisites are met, AQ will initiate a war front. However, if these prerequisites are not met, the organisation will prepare a deliberate plan to fulfil them

The transformation of regional Jihad into Global Jihad is the power of ideology.  This makes it a particularly potent force that cannot be defeated by military means alone. It is also important to understand the social and historical context of this Global Jihad in which it emerged.  To prevent similar developments in the future, it is necessary to address the root cause of these conflicts and to create a more just and equitable world.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh. 

Email: writetomahossain@gmail.com

This article published : 

1. The Geopolitics, USA : 10Mar23

Geostrategic importance of Bangladesh for the USA.

M A Hossain, 

The geostrategic significance of Bangladesh derives from its strategic location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, endowing it with a pivotal role in the region. The country's possession of abundant natural resources and a demographic dividend has made it a magnet for major global powers such as the United States, who are keen on expanding their sphere of influence in the area. Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan in 1971 and its extraordinary strides in socio-economic development have further amplified its importance.

The purpose of this analytical topic is to offer a comprehensive comprehension of Bangladesh's strategic value for the USA, delving into the factors, history, and prospects for cooperation. The analysis will highlight the multifaceted aspects of bilateral relations, encompassing political, economic, and military cooperation. It will also address the challenges and opportunities facing the USA in ensuring Bangladesh's stability and development.

Bangladesh occupies a vital position in South Asia, sharing borders with India to the north, east, and west, and Myanmar to the southeast. Its strategic location at the nexus of South and Southeast Asia grants it access to two major regions. The country's extensive coastline along the Bay of Bengal constitutes a vital maritime gateway to the Indian Ocean, with its maritime boundaries defined by international treaties, including those with India and Myanmar. This has increased the significance of Bangladesh, which is currently receiving considerable attention from world powers, because of China's and India's emergence as superpowers, as well as Japan's economic progress.

Over time, China has emerged not just as a dominant force in Asia, but as a competitor of the United States across several fronts. China's economic progress has led to its various initiatives being perceived as a threat by the West, including the "One Belt One Road" initiative. As a result, there is now mutual competition and rivalry between China, India, and Japan, which extends to their diplomatic relations. Given its foreign policy stance, Bangladesh occupies a strategic position in this context.

The geopolitical and geographical positioning of Bangladesh is a pivotal aspect that confers upon it a strategic edge in both regional politics and trade. Acting as a vital connector between South and Southeast Asia, Bangladesh plays a vital role in regional forums such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). The country's location also bears significant security implications, with mounting apprehensions over border security, cross-border terrorism, and maritime security.

Bangladesh's diplomatic ties with the United States have been illustrated by cordiality and cooperation ever since its independence in 1971. The United States, being one of the earliest nations to recognise Bangladesh as a sovereign state, has emerged as a crucial partner in its developmental pursuits, providing aid and technical assistance to foster socio-economic growth. Over the years, the relationship has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of engagement, spanning political, economic, and military domains.

Considering their shared interests in regional stability and security, the United States has proactively assisted Bangladesh in its counter-terrorism and counter-extremism efforts. Moreover, the United States constitutes a pivotal trading partner for Bangladesh, with bilateral trade figures almost reaching $10.64 billion in 2021. In addition, the two nations have witnessed a surge in military cooperation, as manifested by their collaborative military exercises and training programs.

The significance of the bilateral ties between Bangladesh and the United States emanates from their shared commitment to promoting democracy, safeguarding human rights, and driving socio-economic development. Acknowledging Bangladesh's potential as a regional leader, the United States has actively supported its endeavours to secure sustainable development and political stability. Furthermore, the relationship bears implications for regional politics, with the United States striving to augment its influence in the region by forging partnerships with key stakeholders such as Bangladesh.

One of the foremost factors is Bangladesh's geographical location, which provides the United States with access to critical sea lanes and trade routes in the region. In addition, Bangladesh's burgeoning economy and vast market potential render it an alluring destination for foreign investment, including from the United States.

Bangladesh has strengthened its position due to economic growth, local markets, the contribution of expatriates, strong agriculture etc. Bangladesh's role as a pivotal player in regional security and counterterrorism efforts also renders it an indispensable partner for the United States. Furthermore, the country's escalating political and economic stability, under the aegis of the present government, has bolstered its appeal as a partner for the United States.

Bangladesh's strategic importance for the USA lies in its potential to promote regional stability, security, and economic growth, as well as its significant natural resources and role in regional counterterrorism efforts. The USA's interest in Bangladesh is driven by a desire to expand its influence in South and Southeast Asia and build strong partnerships with key players in the region.

The USA has formulated policies and strategies to strengthen political and economic ties, promote sustainable development and political stability, and increase military cooperation. These efforts demonstrate the USA's commitment to building a strong and enduring partnership with Bangladesh, a crucial player in regional politics and trade.

Prospective initiatives for cooperation between the United States of America and Bangladesh comprise of enhancing trade and investment, intensifying joint counterterrorism endeavours, and advancing governance and human rights. Nonetheless, the partnership confronts significant impediments, such as political turbulence, corruption, and religious extremism. These challenges must be tackled to ensure the endurance and advancement of the alliance.

To surmount these challenges, the USA must adopt a multi-faceted strategy that emphasises building long-term partnerships and fostering regional stability. This approach may involve increasing investment in Bangladesh, providing technical assistance, and supporting education and training programs.

The objective and approach of the collaboration between the United States of America and Bangladesh are aimed at fostering economic and political stability, strengthening security, and augmenting trade and investment. Assistant Secretary Bureau Of South And Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu's visit has played a positive role in moving the Bangladesh-US relationship forward from whatever unpleasant incidents have taken place.  Tackling the challenges and grabbing the opportunities presented by this partnership will necessitate a concerted and comprehensive effort that involves joint action between the United States and Bangladesh.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh. 

Email: writetomahossain@gmail.com

This article published at :

1. Daily Asian Age, BD:03Mar23

2. South Asia Journal, NJ,USA :03Mar23

3. The New Nation, BD: 05Mar23