Bangladesh seeks stronger US energy investment cooperation

Bangladesh seeks stronger US energy investment cooperation
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen at the United Convention Centre in Dhaka recently. Photo: Collected

Online Desk

Published: 2026-05-21 22:45:32

Bangladesh is seeking deeper cooperation with the United States in the energy sector as the government moves to strengthen energy security, diversify fuel sources and attract foreign investment.

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said Bangladesh is looking for stronger engagement from American investors and institutions, particularly in energy infrastructure, liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other strategic sectors.

He made the remarks while speaking at the US National Day reception hosted by US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen at the United Convention Centre in Dhaka recently.

The minister said Bangladesh welcomes increased American investment and technology partnerships in the energy sector as the country works to modernise its economy and secure long-term energy stability.

A major focus of the event was the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Bangladesh and the United States on strategic energy cooperation. The agreement was signed on 14 May by Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright.

According to officials, the MoU will pave the way for millions of dollars in investment opportunities across Bangladesh’s energy value chain, including LNG, LPG, petroleum products, geothermal energy and bioenergy.

The agreement also aims to support Bangladesh’s industrial growth, improve fuel diversification and strengthen supply chain sustainability.

US Ambassador Christensen described the agreement as a historic step in Bangladesh-US relations and said the United States remains a reliable partner for Bangladesh’s growing energy needs.

He said the partnership reflects the US commitment to expanding affordable, reliable and secure energy cooperation with Bangladesh while promoting economic growth and regional stability.

The envoy added that the United States is interested in mutually beneficial partnerships that create opportunities for both countries.

During the event, Ambassador Christensen also highlighted broader economic cooperation, including the recent Boeing-Biman deal and the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), which he said would strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations.

Finance Minister Amir Khosru said Bangladesh and the United States have built strong ties through diplomacy, trade and development cooperation over the years and expressed optimism that the partnership would deepen further in the future.

The reception was attended by ministers, diplomats, business leaders, journalists and representatives of civil society.