Donald Trump congratulates Tarique Rahman

US President Donald Trump has congratulated Bangladesh's newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his 'historic' victory. He also stressed the need to conclude a defense agreement and implement a bilateral trade agreement between the two countries.

The US President gave this message in a letter sent from the White House on February 18. The letter was published on the X handle of the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In the letter, Trump wrote, 'On behalf of the American people, I congratulate you on your historic election victory and wish you a successful term as Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.'

He also mentioned, 'Our two countries' partnership is founded on mutual respect and a shared interest in building a free and open Indo-Pacific region; where strong and sovereign nations can prosper.'

Regarding trade relations, Trump said, 'At this early stage of my term, I hope that you will help me maintain the momentum of our trade relationship by implementing our bilateral trade agreement. This agreement is good for the farmers and workers of both our countries.’

Regarding defense cooperation, he wrote, ‘I also hope that you will take swift and decisive action to conclude those routine defense agreements that will ultimately give your military access to the best, most advanced American equipment in the world.’

In the final part of the letter, Trump added, ‘I look forward to working with you to make the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh stronger than ever. I have full confidence in my Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen. Working together, we have the opportunity to make both our nations more prosperous and secure.’