Brent Christensen, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. ambassador to Bangladesh, told U.S. senators he would focus on strengthening trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement with Dhaka if confirmed.
“Bangladesh shows significant economic potential,” Christensen said during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Thursday. “Having overcome tremendous challenges, Bangladesh is now on the cusp of graduation from least developed country status, a true tribute to the resilience and perseverance of the Bangladeshi people.”
Christensen, a career diplomat with more than two decades of experience in South Asia policy, described Bangladesh as one of the “new Asian tigers” and said he would work to expand commercial opportunities and reduce trade barriers. “If confirmed, I will work to promote opportunities for U.S. business, reduce trade barriers and the trade deficit, and strengthen U.S.-Bangladesh economic ties,” he said.
He also underscored the broader strategic value of Bangladesh within the Indo-Pacific region. “Bangladesh’s strategic location makes it an important participant in an open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” Christensen said.
On the diplomatic front, Christensen vowed to lead the U.S. mission in Dhaka in deepening engagement with both the interim and future elected governments. “If confirmed, it would be an honor to return to Bangladesh as ambassador to lead the talented men and women of U.S. Embassy Dhaka and advance the U.S.-Bangladesh partnership,” he told lawmakers.
Christensen said his priority would be to “advance U.S. foreign policy interests in Bangladesh” while supporting the country’s democratic and economic progress.