Ambassador Peter Haas on Thursday said free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient were the five pillars Washington considered in US-Bangladesh relations.
These were also the five pillars of the United States’ Indo-Pacific strategy, he said while giving a lecture at North South University marking the International Day of Peace.
He, however, said peace was not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of cooperation, understanding and shared prosperity.
"We all have a collective responsibility to foster more peaceful, just and inclusive societies, free from fear and violence."
Free and open
Peace flourished in an environment where nations could freely choose their own path and partners and the people of each country would be allowed to freely elect their leadership, the ambassador said.
"It’s about respecting sovereignty and ensuring that each country has the autonomy to make decisions that best serve its interests. The United States and Bangladesh share this commitment, advocating for a world where all nation’s choices are respected and supported.
"We also seek to advance common approaches to critical and emerging technologies, the internet, and cyberspace, that protect privacy and human dignity," he said.
"As Bangladesh approaches its national election in a few months, we are ready to extend our support to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election to make sure the people can freely elect their leaders.
"We speak out regularly on the systematic and pervasive oppression of journalists, media personalities and even Nobel laureates who hold their government accountable."
Connected
People-to-people relationships were the oil that ran the engine of global peace and prosperity, Haas said.
"The bonds we create, both within our region and beyond, facilitate understanding and collaboration. We are working diligently to enhance these connections, foster cultural exchanges, promote trade partnerships and encourage educational initiatives that build bridges and bridge gaps.
"We will continue to forge stronger connections within and beyond the region.
"Our ties do not just connect our governments but bridge our people. We’re deepening ties between our people through educational and exchange opportunities."
Prosperous
The US government was committed to promoting broad-based prosperity so that no country was left behind in the 21st century, the ambassador said, adding that ensuring steady economic growth was a key component of the strategy.
"Economic growth is a cornerstone of peace. It provides opportunities for people to improve their lives, lifts millions out of poverty and reduces the risk of conflicts borne out of desperation.
"The United States and Bangladesh share a vision of economic prosperity for all. Through trade, investment and development cooperation, we are committed to improving the livelihoods of our citizens."
Secure
"We are working together towards bolstering regional security and stability. Security is essential for lasting peace," Haas said.
"It’s about creating a stable environment where nations can thrive without fear of conflict or aggression. The United States and Bangladesh stand together in our commitment to regional security. And we are proud to partner with Bangladesh on these challenges and more."
Resilient
He said the "challenges we face today transcend borders, and we must tackle them together."
"Climate change and health crises are among the most pressing issues of our time. The United States and Bangladesh are committed to addressing these challenges collectively. By working together, we can build resilience and respond effectively to shared global crises."
Rohingya crisis
Speaking on the Rohingya crisis, the ambassador said it was the responsibility of the entire world to make sure that the conditions were in place in Myanmar so that Rohingyas could return to their homeland with dignity.
"They need to be protected, educated, and they need to enjoy the dignity where they are living," he said.
