To contain China, US needs to pour money, not threats

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said that the US should come with financial assistance, rather than resorting to threats or warnings, in the region if Washington intends to counter Chinese influence here.
While briefing journalists at the foreign ministry on Thursday, he mentioned raising this point during his meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
"He told me that the US government is also thinking along the same lines and is planning to offer more assistance for this region through the IMF [International Monetary Fund]," Dr Momen added.
Responding to a query about the potential imposition of US sanctions on certain businessmen, the minister commented that he could not confirm whether sanctions would be imposed or not.
However, he emphasised that democracy cannot be established through sanctions.
"In my meetings with US officials, I have made it clear that there isn't a single instance where the US succeeded in establishing democracy by imposing sanctions. They have failed to do so in Nigeria and in Cambodia," the foreign minister said.
Dr Momen also noted that due to Bangladesh's strategically vital geopolitical location and its thriving economy, many big powers seek to exert influence on the country.
"But we shall not fall under the sway of any power, as we maintain an independent foreign policy. That is why many powerful countries are trying to intimidate us," the minister commented.
He pointed out that some countries are "trying" to exert pressure on Bangladesh in an attempt to "sell" their products to the nation.
In this context, he mentioned that Boeing is currently making earnest efforts to sell their planes, as Bangladesh has decided to purchase some aircraft from Airbus.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com