Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has criticized the US Indo-Pacific Strategy, accusing the US and its allies of pressuring South Asian countries to promote their own interests in the region. Lavrov made these remarks during a joint press briefing with the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen in Dhaka. Lavrov stated that the US’s main objectives are to contain China and isolate Russia in the region. However, he hailed Bangladesh for maintaining a balanced foreign policy in the face of US pressure.
During the briefing, Lavrov also assured that trade relations between Russia and Bangladesh will be strengthened, with trade between the two countries currently valued at almost $3 billion. He blamed US sanctions on Russia for causing disruptions in the supply chain for Bangladesh’s first nuclear power plant project. Russia is financing up to 90% of the project’s cost as a credit. Despite the setbacks caused by the sanctions, Lavrov emphasized that the project will continue.
Lavrov also commented on the Rohingya crisis, expressing his support for negotiations between Bangladesh and Myanmar. He criticized the role of the West in the crisis and suggested that external actors should limit their involvement and focus on creating favorable conditions for finding a solution.
In conclusion, Lavrov’s visit to Bangladesh signals the strengthening of bilateral ties, particularly in trade and infrastructure projects. Lavrov’s criticism of the US Indo-Pacific Strategy highlights Russia’s perspective on the regional power dynamics. In contrast, he commended Bangladesh for its balanced foreign policy approach. The visit also provided an opportunity for discussions on important regional issues such as the Rohingya crisis.
