Bangladesh seeks US support to modernise transport sector

Bangladesh has sought increased United States support to develop a safer, more modern and sustainable transport system, with discussions held at the Secretariat on Sunday between senior officials of the two countries.

Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam met US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen in a courtesy meeting where both sides exchanged views on ongoing infrastructure projects and potential areas of future cooperation.

According to a press release, the meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in road, rail and water transport sectors, which are considered key pillars of Bangladesh’s infrastructure development agenda.

The minister highlighted that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is actively working to upgrade the country’s transport network.

He said the aim is to build a system that is not only modern and efficient but also safe, environmentally sustainable, and capable of meeting growing national demand.

He also expressed hope that the United States would play a stronger role through investment, technical assistance and knowledge sharing, particularly in areas such as road safety improvement, transport management systems, and infrastructure innovation.

US Ambassador Brent T Christensen welcomed the initiatives taken by the government and reiterated Washington’s interest in expanding cooperation in Bangladesh’s transport sector.

He assured continued US support for development projects aimed at improving safety standards and building a more resilient transport network.

He further emphasised opportunities for deeper partnership through increased investment and the exchange of technical expertise between the two countries.

Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Mohammad Ziaul Haque was also present during the meeting, which both sides described as constructive and forward-looking in terms of bilateral cooperation in infrastructure development.