ছবি: From left: Kelly M. Fay Rodríguez and Deputy Under Secretary Thea Lee. Photo: Collected.
A special delegation from the Biden administration arrived in Dhaka on Friday (November 22) for a four-day official visit. The delegation is led by Kelly M. Fay Rodríguez, Special Representative for International Labor Affairs, and Thea Lee, Deputy Under Secretary from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Upon their arrival, the delegation met with the Solidarity Center, a labor rights organization, to discuss workers’ conditions. They are also scheduled to hold meetings with key government representatives, private sector garment manufacturers, and labor union stakeholders.
Sources indicate that the delegation will engage with American companies investing in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment sector and global labor experts to discuss strategies for supporting Bangladesh’s economy, democracy, and workers' rights effectively.
This visit underscores the United States’ commitment to economic development, internationally recognized labor standards, sustainable growth, and shared prosperity.
Earlier, on Wednesday (November 20), the delegation emphasized their focus on fostering a sustainable economy, stability, growth, and meaningful job creation in Bangladesh.
Diplomatic sources highlight the Democratic Party's labor-friendly stance, both domestically and globally. Under Biden's leadership, the U.S. has prioritized human rights, democracy, and labor rights in international relations. In contrast, Republican administrations are often seen as pro-business, enacting anti-union legislation in the U.S. during their tenure.
Officials from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the Biden administration has been particularly vocal on labor issues in Bangladesh. They anticipate this emphasis may decrease under Donald Trump, who will assume office as the 47th U.S. President in January 2025. However, U.S. support for labor organizations funded by American aid is expected to continue, allowing the Democrats to demonstrate their enduring commitment to workers' rights until the end of their term.
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