Gor's Boeing Remarks May Refer to Previous Agreement
The US Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, Sergio Gor, made remarks about Bangladesh purchasing more Boeing aircraft. However, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam clarified that his comments may have referred to a previous deal.
The clarification came after Gor posted on social media that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had struck 'another incredible Deal' involving Bangladesh's commitment to spend 'Billions of Dollars' on more Boeing aircraft. He also claimed that Bangladesh would 'significantly' increase its initial Boeing order.
Bangladesh signed an agreement with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing in April for the purchase of 14 aircraft, including eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and four 737-8 MAX aircraft. The Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry has maintained that no separate Boeing aircraft deal has been signed apart from this agreement.
The State Minister's clarification suggests that Bangladesh views cooperation with the US, including in trade and investment, from its own national interest perspective.