Washington, D.C., Feb 12 : The United States has expressed optimism ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, viewing the vote as a potential new chapter in its engagement across South Asia. The remarks came during testimony before a House subcommittee on South and Central Asia, where lawmakers discussed US support for democratic transitions in the region.
Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapur, said the administration expects a smooth and peaceful electoral process. “We’re excited about it. The interim government has a strong sense of responsibility, and we look forward to working with whichever government is elected,” he told lawmakers.
Subcommittee Chair Bill Huizenga described the election as part of a broader political reset in South Asia, highlighting the strategic importance of upcoming leadership changes in Bangladesh and its neighbors. “These instances offer new chapters for engagement in the region, defining US relations with these new governments,” Huizenga said.
Democratic Ranking Member Sydney Kamlager Dove emphasized the constitutional stakes, noting that voters will select leadership following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She added that the elections present a rare opportunity for the US to leverage democracy assistance to support accountable governance, though she cautioned that cuts to democracy programs and USAID have limited Washington’s capacity to act.
The testimony underscored bipartisan recognition of Bangladesh’s geopolitical significance, particularly as a key player in Bay of Bengal economic and security dynamics amid broader Indo-Pacific competition. Lawmakers noted that the outcome of the elections will shape the US’s next phase of regional engagement and its approach to supporting democratic institutions.