Bangladesh's foreign policy must be principled, pragmatic, national interest-centred: Humaiun Kobir
The state minister for foreign affairs says Bangladesh should maintain balanced ties with major powers while strengthening regional connectivity and protecting citizens abroad.
Bangladesh must pursue a foreign policy that is principled, pragmatic and firmly anchored in national interests amid a rapidly changing global environment, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir said today (5 October).
Speaking to participants of a course at the National Defence College (NDC) in Mirpur, he said intensifying geopolitical competition, evolving security challenges, economic vulnerabilities, technological changes, climate change and transnational threats require Bangladesh to adopt a forward-looking foreign policy, according to a press release.
The state minister said a "Bangladesh first" policy did not mean isolation, but rather keeping the country's interests at the centre of diplomacy while protecting sovereignty and expanding partnerships based on mutual respect and mutual benefit.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
He stressed the need for stronger regional connectivity, greater economic integration and practical cooperation with neighbouring countries.
Bangladesh's relations with major powers, including China, India, Japan, the United States and the European Union, should be guided by balance and clarity while recognising the distinct opportunities and challenges presented by each, he said.
Humaiun also underscored the need to protect the rights, dignity and welfare of Bangladeshi citizens living abroad.
"Bangladesh's foreign policy must be confident without being confrontational, open without being dependent, and pragmatic without compromising our national interests," he said.
