EMBASSY OFFICES

Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC)

The Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC), under the direction of the Chief of the U.S. diplomatic mission, conducts the in-country management of Bangladesh's Security Assistance (SA) programs. The ODC provides this oversight in conjunction with its host nation counterparts, the country team within the diplomatic mission, the Commander of Pacific Command, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense — Defense Security Cooperation Agency and the Military Departments.

SA programs allow the transfer of defense articles and services to international organizations and friendly foreign governments via sales, grants, leases, or loans to help friendly nations and allies deter and defend against aggression, promote the sharing of common defense burdens and help foster regional stability. SA includes such diverse efforts as the transfer of defense weapon systems to foreign governments, U.S. Service School training to international students, and consultation on internal defense capabilities improvement. Also, when the U.S. assists Bangladesh in meeting its defense requirements, the U.S. contributes to its own security interests, including access to the Bangladesh military, and building competent coalition partners.

Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Foreign Military Financing (FMF) grants or loans, International Military Education and Training (IMET), and Enhanced International Peacekeeping Capabilities (EIPC) / Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI) are key programs included within Security Assistance. IMET and EIPC/GPOI are conducted solely on a grant basis. FMS can be conducted using host nation funds, donor funds or FMF.