Dhaka: US President Donald Trump has congratulated Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on taking office and called for faster progress in trade and defence cooperation between the two nations.

In a letter shared by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry, Trump praised Rahman on his “historic election” and wished him success in his new role. Rahman was sworn in as prime minister on February 17.

Trump said he hopes the new government will continue the strong momentum in bilateral trade relations. He urged early implementation of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, noting that it could benefit farmers and workers in both countries.

Referring to the Indo-Pacific region, Trump said the US-Bangladesh partnership is built on mutual respect and a shared goal of maintaining a free and open regional order.

He also pushed for completion of pending defence agreements. According to Trump, these would help Bangladesh gain access to advanced American military equipment.

The US president said Washington is keen to deepen ties with Dhaka and expressed confidence that closer cooperation would help make both nations more secure and prosperous.