US envoy urges Bangladesh join Pax Silica

On August 1, 2026, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Dhaka to discuss bilateral ties, trade, and investment. Gor called on Bangladesh to join the US-led Pax Silica initiative, an economic security alliance focused on critical minerals, energy, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure, aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese technology. Gor expressed confidence in Rahman's leadership, noting that stability has returned to Bangladesh, and highlighted the US revision of its travel advisory as a signal to investors. Rahman urged US investment in agricultural storage and IT sectors. The meeting also covered the Rohingya crisis, with Gor praising Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts and stressing the need for a political solution. Both sides agreed to resume FDA-supported product testing in Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, US Ambassador Brent Christensen, and other officials.