Bangladesh is not under any obligation to seek permission from the United States for energy imports, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman clarified on Sunday, highlighting that the country is actively exploring multiple sources to maintain a stable fuel supply amid the global energy crisis.
“There is no secret deal with the United States regarding energy; all existing arrangements have already been made public,” the minister told reporters at the Secretariat.
He dismissed reports suggesting that Bangladesh requires US approval to import oil as “completely false.”
Dr Khalilur Rahman spoke following a courtesy visit by US Ambassador Brent T Christensen to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat. Prime Minister’s Adviser for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir also attended the meeting.
The foreign minister explained that global sanctions on Russian oil apply universally, and any approvals Bangladesh may seek are linked to these sanctions, not bilateral agreements.
He emphasised that there are no binding commitments affecting Bangladesh’s energy imports under any existing accord with the United States.
During the discussion, Dr Khalilur Rahman said that the government is evaluating options to procure oil from India, the Middle East and the United States, ensuring that fuel is sourced from the most cost-effective and secure alternatives. While some energy-related cooperation with the US remains confidential, the envoy reaffirmed support to help Bangladesh strengthen its energy security.
Dr Khalilur Rahman also confirmed that the Prime Minister’s potential foreign visits are in early planning stages, with no finalised destinations.
During the visit, the US ambassador presented the Prime Minister with two photographs and a replica of the White House, featuring Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with former US President Jimmy Carter, and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia with former US President George Bush Sr.
