Washington, Jan 10 (NationPress) Brent Christensen, a seasoned foreign service professional, has officially taken his oath as the new United States Ambassador to Bangladesh. The State Department emphasized his extensive experience with both Bangladesh and the United States' commitment to enhancing trade relations and strategic cooperation with Dhaka.

The oath was administered by Deputy Secretary of State Michael R. McFaul at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department.

According to the Bureau of South and Central Asia, Christensen possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge in US-Bangladesh relations.

“We are eager for his leadership to bolster our trade relations and further American interests in Bangladesh,” the Bureau stated.

Christensen is headed to Dhaka with over 20 years of experience in shaping US policy towards Bangladesh, including a previous assignment in Dhaka.

During his confirmation hearing on October 23, he expressed, “I recognize the significance of Bangladesh and the substantial US interests in the region. Its strategic location is pivotal in fostering an open, secure, and thriving Indo-Pacific region.”

He characterized Bangladesh as “a vital player in ensuring an open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific landscape,” noting that the country is currently at a critical political juncture.

“Bangladesh is indeed at a crucial crossroads,” he remarked. “The student-led protests in August 2024 resulted in the ousting of a government that had held power for 15 years. The forthcoming elections early next year represent a monumental decision for the nation, as it will choose a new government and determine its future direction,” he added.

“The United States stands with Bangladesh as it strives towards a brighter democratic future. If confirmed, I aim to lead the Dhaka embassy team in fostering strong relationships with both the current interim government and its future democratically elected counterpart to enhance the US-Bangladesh alliance. Often seen as one of the emerging Asian Tigers, Bangladesh has considerable economic potential,” he conveyed to lawmakers.

Christensen noted that Bangladesh has shown remarkable resilience in overcoming significant challenges and is on the verge of transitioning from least developed country status, which is a testament to the tenacity of its citizens. “Upon confirmation, I will strive to create opportunities for US businesses, lower trade barriers related to the trade deficit, and fortify US-Bangladesh economic relations,” he mentioned.

This swearing-in occurs amidst increasing congressional scrutiny regarding the political situation in Bangladesh. In a correspondence dated December 23, 2025, prominent lawmakers from the House Foreign Affairs Committee urged interim leader Muhammad Yunus to ensure credible elections and uphold democratic principles.

“We appreciate your readiness to lead an interim government during this national crisis in Bangladesh ahead of the elections in February next year,” the lawmakers stated.

“It is crucial for the interim administration to collaborate with various political factions to create an environment for free and fair elections, enabling the Bangladeshi populace to express their will peacefully at the polls,” the letter emphasized.

The lawmakers cautioned against restrictions on political activities, asserting that “the freedom of association and the principle of individual criminal responsibility are fundamental human rights.”

Concerns were also raised about previous elections and the violence associated with them. “The Department of State and numerous international observers have noted that the 2018 and 2024 General Elections were not conducted in a free or fair manner,” the letter stated, citing a UN estimate that “security forces were responsible for the deaths of 1,400 individuals during protests in July and August 2024.”

“Bangladesh is an essential ally for the United States, and we are prepared to collaborate with you and your administration to support both our bilateral relationship and Bangladesh’s democratic evolution in the coming months,” the lawmakers concluded.

Christensen arrives at his new role in Dhaka with extensive experience in national security and regional affairs. Most recently, he served as Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of United States Strategic Command from August 2022 to January 2025, where he advised on the foreign policy repercussions of the US global strategic deterrence mission.

Designated by President Donald J. Trump as Senior Official performing the duties of Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security on January 20, 2025, Christensen held this position until October 10, 2025.

A member of the Senior Foreign Service, he previously served as Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs at the US Embassy in Dhaka from 2019 to 2021, and also as Deputy Director of the Office of Regional Security and Arms Transfers in the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.

Christensen is a Distinguished Graduate of the National War College and holds advanced degrees in national security strategy and statistics. He is fluent in Spanish, German, and Vietnamese.

The diplomatic relations between the United States and Bangladesh were established in 1972, and since then, the ties have expanded to encompass trade, development cooperation, security dialogue, and humanitarian efforts, including support for Rohingya refugees.