Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday (January 17, 2024) said Bangladesh has agreed to deepen ties with the United States through expansion of trade and strengthening efforts to combat “militancy and fanaticism.” "We have expressed our commitment to work together," he told reporters after his separate meetings with US Ambassador Peter Haas and European Union Ambassador Charles Whiteley at his office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  The Foreign Minister said the rise of fanaticism is a problem worldwide.  Responding to a question, he also said there has been exploration of oil offshore.  Bangladesh, China discuss promoting FTA negotiation and attracting investment The Foreign Minister said there are oil reserves as discovered by a US company. He said Bangladesh and the US have cooperation in the defence area and they have discussed the issue.  The Foreign Minister said he has discussed the Rohingya repatriation issue with both the ambassadors. He said Bangladesh wants Rohingyas to return to their homeland with full rights. EU to start negotiations on Partnership Cooperation Agreement very soon, says Charles Whiteley Hasan Mahmud said Bangladesh is now hosting around 15 lakh Rohingyas, and the number is growing . "It's a burden for us." Talking to reporters, US Ambassador Peter Haas said he looks forward to working closely with Bangladesh in the coming months on issues of mutual importance.  He mentioned climate change, expanding business opportunities, and other areas of cooperation to advance the relations.  "I look forward to working very closely in the coming months to advance our mutual interest," said Ambassador Haas. Referring to the meeting with the Foreign Minister, he said it was an opportunity to talk about the future of the US-Bangladesh relationship.  Lavrov to Hasan Mahmud: Russia-Bangladesh ties based on solid foundation of friendship Regarding his meeting with EU Ambassador Whiteley, the Foreign Minister said they discussed the Partnership Cooperation Agreement (PCA) so that both sides can reach a fruitful position through negotiations.