Former US ambassador to Bangladesh William B Milam passes away

Former United States Ambassador to Bangladesh William B Milam has passed away on Tuesday (February 17) local time in Sacramento, California at the age of 89.

Milam served as US ambassador to Bangladesh from 1990 to 1993, a period marked by significant political change and humanitarian challenges.

During his tenure, he played a key role in strengthening bilateral ties between Washington and Dhaka.

Paying tribute, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas Christensen expressed deep sorrow at Milam's passing.

"I can personally attest to his dedication to building US-Bangladesh ties long after his time as Ambassador.

My sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all of us who had the privilege of working alongside him," said the US Ambassador Christensen in a post from the official Facebook page of the US Embassy in Dhaka.

"His role in organising Operation Sea Angel, which saved thousands of lives after the devastating 1991 cyclone and floods, remains a lasting legacy," it adds.

Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also expressed grief by saying, "Deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Ambassador William B Milam Bill passed away peacefully, having lived long enough to see the return of democracy and spirit of humanity in Bangladesh, something he has tirelessly worked for all his life."

"Farewell and Rest in Peace, Ambassador."