Two senior officials from the United States Department of State are set to visit Dhaka this week to discuss various issues including democratic reforms, human rights, and the situation in Myanmar.

Nicole Ann Chulick, Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs, will arrive in Dhaka on Tuesday for a four-day visit. She is currently acting as the head of the bureau in the absence of an Assistant Secretary. 

During her stay, Chulick will meet with government officials, political party leaders including BNP and Jamaat, and the Chief Adviser. 

She will discuss how the US can support Bangladesh in its reform process and help the country return to a democratic path.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sources, Chulick is expected to raise issues related to terrorism and human rights during her meetings, especially amid recent media reports about a rise in extremism. 

US believes not pushing for reforms during the 1/11 period was a mistake and now wants to support Bangladesh in ensuring democratic governance, sources added.

Andrew R. Herrup, Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, will also arrive in Dhaka on Wednesday. 

His main focus will be on the evolving situation in Myanmar. He is scheduled to meet the Chief Adviser and other senior officials including the High Representative to the Chief Adviser.

Herrup will be joined by Susan Stevenson, the US Acting Ambassador to Myanmar. 

According to the Foreign Ministry sources, the US considers the situation in Myanmar a major challenge to its Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS). Most parts of the country remain outside the government's control, and it has become a hub for drug trafficking, illegal arms trade, human trafficking, and kidnappings. Both the military and armed rebel groups in Myanmar are reportedly involved.

The Rohingya crisis and cross-border criminal activities will also be key topics during the discussions.

BDST: 1514 HRS, April 15, 2025
MSK/SMS