Bangladesh, US Hold 10th Land Forces Talks in Dhaka to Strengthen Military Cooperation

Shehab Wahid, Dhaka – Bangladesh and the United States have concluded the 10th Bangladesh–United States Land Forces Talks (LFT)–2026, focusing on strengthening military cooperation, exchanging training and experience, and expanding their strategic partnership.

The two-day talks were held on October 26–27 at the Army Multipurpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment. Military representatives from the Bangladesh Army and the United States Army discussed several areas of mutual interest and explored opportunities to expand bilateral defence cooperation.

The Bangladesh delegation was led by Brigadier General Syed Ashiqur Rahman, Director of the Military Training Directorate of the Bangladesh Army. The US delegation was headed by Major General Giles J. S. Cornelia, Deputy Commanding General for Strategy and Plans of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC).

Discussions focused on strengthening military cooperation, enhancing operational capabilities and advancing the strategic partnership between the two countries. Particular emphasis was placed on training exchanges, sharing professional experience, adopting advanced technologies, improving capabilities in the use of military equipment and expanding mutual cooperation.

Both sides also underscored the importance of coordinated preparedness and effective joint responses to natural and man-made disasters. Improving coordination and response capabilities in emergency situations was among the key areas of discussion.

Ahead of the talks, on October 26, Major General Cornelia paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman at Army Headquarters.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate of Bangladesh, the dialogue is expected to contribute to stronger military relations between Bangladesh and the United States, while supporting capability development and expanding cooperation in the defence sector.