Strengthening U.S.–Bangladesh Relations through Public-Private Partnerships

Abstract: This dissertation explores the potential for enhancing bilateral ties between the United States and Bangladesh through strategic public-private partnerships (PPPs). As Bangladesh emerges as a rapidly growing economy in South Asia, its geopolitical significance and developmental trajectory provide fertile ground for mutually beneficial collaborations. By leveraging PPPs, the United States can advance its national interest goals, including regional stability, economic prosperity, democratic governance, and climate resilience. This paper outlines the strategic value of such partnerships, presents case studies of successful initiatives, and offers policy recommendations to strengthen U.S.–Bangladesh cooperation.

1.     Introduction The U.S.–Bangladesh relationship is at a pivotal juncture. With Bangladesh projected to become a trillion-dollar economy by 2040, its role in regional dynamics and global supply chains is increasingly critical. This dissertation argues that public-private partnerships offer a powerful tool to reinforce bilateral ties, align developmental goals, and serve U.S. strategic interests in South Asia.

2.     U.S. National Interest Goals in South Asia The U.S. foreign policy in South Asia is driven by several core objectives:

·       Promoting regional stability and countering extremism.

·       Enhancing economic partnerships and supply chain diversification.

·       Advancing democratic institutions and human rights.

·       Addressing climate change and fostering environmental resilience.

·       Maintaining maritime security and freedom of navigation. (Pew Research Center, 2022; U.S. Department of State, 2023)

3.     The Case for Bangladesh Bangladesh has demonstrated strong economic growth, a thriving textile industry, and a commitment to international peacekeeping and climate resilience. Its demographic dividend and strategic location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia make it a key partner in achieving U.S. policy goals (World Bank, 2022).

4.     Public-Private Partnerships as a Diplomatic Tool PPPs facilitate shared investment in infrastructure, technology transfer, and social development. They encourage innovation, risk-sharing, and sustainability while building trust and long-term engagement.

5.     Strategic Sectors for PPPs in U.S.–Bangladesh Cooperation 5.1 Energy and Infrastructure: Collaborations in LNG terminals, renewable energy, and grid modernization can address Bangladesh's growing energy demand while supporting U.S. energy exports and climate goals (IEA, 2021).

5.2 Digital Economy: Joint ventures in ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital literacy will modernize Bangladesh’s economy and enhance global connectivity (USAID, 2022).

5.3 Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Expanding healthcare access and pharmaceutical production supports global health security and commercial opportunities for U.S. firms (WHO, 2023).

5.4 Education and Workforce Development: Scholarships, vocational training, and university partnerships foster human capital development and cultural diplomacy (Fulbright Commission, 2023).

5.5 Climate Resilience: Bangladesh is among the most climate-vulnerable countries. PPPs can develop early warning systems, resilient agriculture, and sustainable urban planning (UNDP, 2022).

6.     Case Studies 6.1 U.S.–Bangladesh Clean Energy Partnership: A model initiative promoting solar mini-grids in rural Bangladesh through collaboration between USAID, local governments, and U.S. firms.

6.2 ICT Training Hubs: Joint efforts between U.S. tech companies and Bangladeshi institutions to provide digital skills to youth, enhancing employability and entrepreneurship.

6.3 The Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA): Partnerships supporting laboratory infrastructure, surveillance systems, and pandemic preparedness.

7.     Challenges and Risk Mitigation Key risks include regulatory barriers, political instability, and capacity constraints. These can be mitigated through policy coherence, stakeholder engagement, and institutional strengthening.

8.     Policy Recommendations

·       Establish a U.S.–Bangladesh PPP Task Force to identify priority projects.

·       Expand OPIC and DFC financing mechanisms in Bangladesh.

·       Enhance embassy-level economic diplomacy units.

·       Foster trilateral partnerships with allies like Japan and India.

·       Create a bilateral innovation fund for technology-driven solutions.

9.     Conclusion Strategic public-private partnerships offer a pragmatic and powerful means to deepen U.S.–Bangladesh relations. Aligning these initiatives with U.S. national interests—economic security, climate action, democratic values—ensures long-term cooperation and shared prosperity.

References:

1.     Pew Research Center. (2022). Global Attitudes Survey.

2.     U.S. Department of State. (2023). Integrated Country Strategy: Bangladesh.

3.     World Bank. (2022). Bangladesh Development Update.

4.     International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Energy Outlook.

5.     USAID. (2022). Digital Strategy 2020-2024.

6.     World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Country Cooperation Strategy – Bangladesh.

7.     Fulbright Commission. (2023). Education Exchange Annual Report.

8.     United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2022). Human Development Report.

9.     U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). (2023). Annual Portfolio Review.

10.  Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). (2023). U.S.–South Asia Policy Brief.

Author:

AKM SAYEDAD HOSSAIN

Executive Director, International Institute of global Studies