Desk:After assuming office as the President of the United States, Donald Trump has made a series of bold decisions, one of which has significantly impacted Bangladesh. Shortly after taking the oath, Trump issued an executive order halting foreign funding for 90 days. Following this decision, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) issued directives to immediately cease all ongoing projects in Bangladesh.
In a letter addressed to its partners, USAID Bangladesh stated, “Partners are instructed to suspend all activities under USAID contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other assistance or acquisition instruments. Activities may resume only after written notification from the contracting officer.” The letter further emphasized that partners must take necessary measures to minimize costs during this suspension.
Trump’s decision has posed a significant challenge to Bangladesh, which is already grappling with economic difficulties. Mohammed Yunus, a prominent figure in Bangladesh and a Nobel laureate, enjoyed cordial relations with former US President Joe Biden. However, his relationship with Trump has been far from favorable. During his recent visit to the US, Yunus did not meet with Trump or any Republican leaders, instead strengthening his ties with Biden.
This is not the first instance of tension between Trump and Yunus. Back in 2016, Trump had sarcastically referred to Yunus as “the microfinance guy from Dhaka” and accused him of supporting his political rivals.
Immediate Suspension of Foreign Aid Projects
Trump’s executive order to halt foreign development assistance aims to review the efficiency and stability of US foreign policy. Until this review is completed, no new commitments will be made for foreign aid, according to the US State Department. Senior officials have been directed to ensure maximum compliance with the order, which also suspends ongoing foreign aid awards pending further decisions.
This abrupt halt has sparked criticism, with former USAID official Jeremy Konyndyk, now president of Refugees International, calling the decision “madness.” He warned that such a move could result in devastating consequences, including loss of lives. “If implemented as written, this will kill a lot of people,” Konyndyk remarked.
Trump’s foreign policy stance continues to draw both applause and criticism, leaving countries like Bangladesh scrambling to cope with its economic and developmental repercussions.