Washington Seeks Bangladesh Participation In Pax Silica As Sergio Gor Expands Outreach

US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor on Saturday urged Bangladesh to join the US-led Pax Silica initiative, highlighting the country’s potential role in strengthening global economic security partnerships focused on critical minerals, energy, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The appeal was made during Gor’s meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Rahman at his office in Tejgaon. During the meeting, Gor and Bangladeshi officials discussed a range of issues, including bilateral relations, trade and investment opportunities, regional cooperation, and areas of mutual interest. Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) quoted Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Shadhin as saying that the discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.

Gor said Bangladesh could play an important role in the emerging global economic security framework by becoming part of Pax Silica. The initiative, led by the US State Department, is aimed at building cooperation among countries in key technology and supply chain sectors while reducing dependence on China’s dominance in advanced technology industries. The Pax Silica initiative focuses on strengthening partnerships in areas such as semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, energy security, and critical mineral supply chains. The United States has been promoting greater cooperation among like-minded countries to create more resilient technology ecosystems and reduce vulnerabilities caused by concentrated supply chains.

Following the meeting, Gor said the United States and Bangladesh have significant opportunities to enhance economic ties. In a post on social media platform X, he said discussions with Prime Minister Rahman covered ways to strengthen economic cooperation and deepen the partnership between the two countries. “Today I called on the Honourable Prime Minister @trahmanbnp to discuss the great opportunities between the US and Bangladesh to strengthen economic cooperation and enhance our partnership,” Gor wrote. He added that cooperation between the two nations was a priority for Washington and could deliver meaningful results.

Also Read: Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi Holds Meeting With US Envoy Sergio Gor

The meeting comes as the United States continues efforts to expand strategic and economic partnerships across South Asia. Washington has been seeking closer cooperation with regional countries on technology, supply chain security, energy, and investment as competition in critical industries increases globally. For Bangladesh, participation in initiatives linked to advanced technology and industrial development could provide opportunities for investment, knowledge-sharing, and greater integration into global supply chains. The country has been working to expand its technology sector and attract foreign investment as part of its broader economic development goals.

The discussions also come amid efforts by both countries to strengthen their overall bilateral relationship. Trade, investment, regional stability, and economic cooperation remain key areas of engagement between Dhaka and Washington. While no formal decision regarding Bangladesh’s participation in Pax Silica was announced, Gor’s proposal signals growing US interest in involving South Asian economies in strategic technology and infrastructure partnerships. Further discussions are expected as both sides explore opportunities for deeper cooperation in emerging sectors.

Also Read: Bangladesh Insists Its Foreign Ties are Not a Zero-Sum Game