Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin on Sunday said the visiting US delegation confirmed Washington’s support for financial reforms in Bangladesh, noting that the day’s discussions were the foundation for meaningful bilateral engagement on furthering the interim government’s reform agenda.

Talks primarily focused on money laundering with Dhaka seeking US expertise in this regard as both sides discussed the areas of reforms Bangladesh needs under its current interim government, Md Jashim Uddin told reporters.

The foreign secretary made the remarks after leading the Bangladeshi side in talks with a US delegation at state guesthouse Padma. The US team was led by Brent Neiman, assistant secretary for international finance at the US Department of Treasury.

“Our engagement with top economic policymakers centred on the authorities’ efforts to propel economic growth, job creation, and sustainability, including through engaging with international financial institutions,” said the US embassy in Dhaka after a Sunday meeting.

“Discussions have just started. It might take a bit of time to get a final shape,” he said, adding that the US side reiterated its willingness to work closely with the interim government.

“The conversation will continue,” Jashim said, adding that Bangladesh informed the US delegation about steps taken on the labour front which the US sees as a significant progress.

The US side initially wanted to know about the reform initiatives being taken by the interim government. The government officials briefed the Americans on the steps already being taken and intimated that reforms in financial and revenue sectors have been given highest priority, Jashim Uddin told reporters.

The visiting US delegation also met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed. Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin hosted a working lunch at state guesthouse Padma.

This was the first visit by a US delegation in Bangladesh since the formation of the interim government led by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on 8 August.

The arrival of the first team of the United States in just the second month of interim government’s tenure is a great reflection of the importance they attach to the relationship with Bangladesh,” said Secretary Jashim Uddin.

The US and Bangladeshi officials discussed how the United States can support Bangladesh’s economic growth, financial stability, and development needs.

The two countries also discussed labour reforms, trade facilitation, Rohingya crisis, and GSP facility, said the foreign secretary.

“Great to meet the foreign affairs adviser … .we are committed to helping expand economic opportunities, build institutional capacity, uphold human rights, and mitigate climate risks with our partner, Bangladesh,” said the US side after the meeting with Touhid Hossain.

After talks with Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, the US officials said they support Bangladesh’s path towards renewed dynamism and growth.