Delegates from the US Army and Bangladesh Army have held fruitful talks on increasing mutual cooperation, with a particular focus on boosting technological assistance and defence readiness against “diverse global challenges.”

The two sides discussed the issues in the second phase of the “9th Land Forces Talks” held on 26-27 January at the conference room of Army Sports Control Board in Dhaka Cantonment, said a press release issued by ISPR.

The first phase was hosted in the US on 8-10 September last year, the release added.

In the second phase, the 22-member Bangladesh delegation was led by Lt Col Mohamamd Badrul Haque of the Training Directorate of the armed forces.

The four-member US delegation was led by Major Michael Jacob Oster of the Security Cooperation Division under the US Army Pacific Command.

The two sides held elaborate discussions on strengthening defence cooperation and boosting efficiency. Particular emphasis was given on training exchanges, and enhancing skills in using modern defence technology and military equipment.

They also held detailed talks on arranging multiple joint trainings and drills and focused on innovative training procedures.

The delegates reaffirmed their desire to further bolster the ongoing strategic partnership between the armies of the two countries.