Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and US President Joe Biden have affirmed the close partnership between the United States and Bangladesh, which is rooted in shared democratic values and strong people-to-people ties.

During a meeting held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, President Biden welcomed further engagement between the two governments.

President Biden offered continued U.S. support as Bangladesh implements its new reform agenda, according to the readout of President Joe Biden’s meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh.

Biden met with Chief Adviser Yunus to congratulate him on his recent appointment as the head of the interim government, according to the White House. 

This is the first time in the history of Bangladesh that a US President has met the head of the Bangladesh government on the sidelines UNGA in New York, according to Chief Adviser's press wing.

It is not usual for a US President to hold bilateral meetings during the UNGA and Dhaka hoped to see a new strategic partnership that will strengthen the ties with the US on all fronts.

Biden is visiting New York City to participate in the 79th session of the UNGA.

In addition to addressing the General Assembly on September 24, President Biden will meet with world leaders to discuss cooperation in tackling threats to international peace and security, advancing global prosperity, and protecting human rights, said Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on President Biden’s travel to New York City.

The US has already affirmed their dedication to fostering inclusive economic growth, institution building, and development to benefit the people of Bangladesh.

As Bangladesh looks to chart a more equitable and inclusive future, the US said it stands ready to support those efforts.

This is Prof Yunus' first visit to the United States as head of the Bangladesh government to attend the 79th UNGA and also first visit abroad since the formation of the interim government on August 8.