Boeing deal based on mutual interests: Mahadi Amin

The agreement to purchase Boeing aircraft was reached based on the mutual interests of Bangladesh and the United States, and not under any pressure, said Prime Minister’s Adviser and Office spokesperson Mahadi Amin.

Responding to questions from journalists, Mahadi said the deal was not something imposed on Bangladesh, stressing that the decision to purchase Boeing aircraft had been taken earlier based on the interests of both sides.

“The prime minister was not present at the meeting. The agreement was signed with representatives of both countries and both sides, keeping Bangladesh’s interests as the priority.''

Mahadi Amin made the remarks on Sunday morning at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after Prime Minister returned home following his visit to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

He said the Bangladesh and US governments had also signed a memorandum of understanding on strategic civil nuclear cooperation during the visit.

The prime minister, he said, held bilateral discussions with the leaders of 11 countries during the trip, focusing on Bangladesh’s national interests and public welfare.

“During the visit, discussions were held with various countries on resolving Bangladesh’s energy, Rohingya and economic challenges.''

He added that discussions with Middle Eastern countries focused particularly on energy security and ways to work together to address Bangladesh’s energy needs.

On the Rohingya crisis, Amin said the prime minister discussed the issue with countries and organisations working on human rights and displaced populations, and that they had assured Bangladesh of their continued support in resolving the crisis.

He also described the prime minister’s visit as a short but significant diplomatic engagement, saying that, after many years, an elected head of government from Bangladesh had represented the country on the global stage.

He said the prime minister highlighted issues including education, healthcare and agriculture in his address to the UN, expressing hope that the priorities outlined in the speech would be translated into action.

The prime minister also spoke about global peace, including the situation in Palestine, Amin said.

“He spoke about how we want to see peace in Palestine. This was not merely a statement—we also saw Bangladesh walk out when the Israeli prime minister was delivering his speech.''