The United States wants to establish an anti-terrorism unit in Bangladesh. In fact, according to a Bangladeshi diplomatic source, the Bangladeshi government has received a $100 million grant proposal from the United States for this purpose.

On January 11, 2006, the United Press International (UPI), a U.S. news organization, reported that Bangladeshi defense officials confessed the matter on condition of anonymity.

The anti-terrorism unit will be conducted under the direct control and supervision of the United States. A special team from the United States will train the unit, which will be named “707 Special Battalion for Counter Terrorism.”

Additionally, the United States will supply modern equipment and supplies for the unit.

According to sources, members of Bangladeshi security agencies will be recruited for this unit based on their honesty and commitment. UPI further stated that Bangladesh has given Washington the green-light on this plan.

Washington arranged the date for the U.S. State Department Undersecretary Nicholas Burns to visit Bangladesh, but the visit was cancelled due to recent escalation in the Iranian nuclear situation. Bangladeshi Foreign Minister M. Morshed Khan told journalists in Dhaka that another high-ranking official is scheduled to visit Bangladesh.

John Sikey, a senior UPI reporter, stated in his story that U.S. officials will visit Bangladesh to learn about recent initiatives Bangladesh has taken to stop terrorists activities.

Shamsher Mobin Chowdhury, Bangladeshi ambassador to Washington, said that Bangladesh has been working as a U.S. partner in the war against terrorism. Bangladesh will welcome all cooperation. Chowdhury added that the United States has already provided assistance to many countries, including Indonesia, to stop terrorism.

Bangladesh and the United States have always taken a united stand in the fight against terrorism. Bangladesh continues to earn praise from the international community for its stand against terrorism.