New Delhi, May 17 -- Donald Lu, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, embarked on a trip to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh this month to enhance bilateral cooperation with each country and reiterate US endorsement of an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, and prosperous. A spokesperson at the US Department of State had said before his departure that he would engage in discussions with government officials, civil society leaders, and other individuals from Bangladesh to explore ways to enhance cooperation between the US and Bangladesh, including the climate crisis and strengthening economic relations.

The visit holds great importance due to the considerable shifts in the pre-election situation in Bangl...