Commonwealth chief vows continued support for Bangladesh

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said she is listening to a wide range of stakeholders in Bangladesh and discussing how the Commonwealth can continue supporting its people at this important moment and in the years ahead.

Botchwey, now on her first official visit to Bangladesh, said the Commonwealth family remains firmly committed to the country while discussing with Dhaka-based High Commissioners on strengthening support for Bangladesh in line with the Commonwealth Charter.

"I had fruitful discussions with Dhaka-based High Commissioners on how the Commonwealth can continue supporting Bangladesh to advance the values of the Commonwealth Charter for the benefit of its people," she commented on the meeting through her official social media platform.

Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke, Canadian High Commissioner Ajit Singh, Malaysian High Commissioner Mohd Shuhada Othman, Pakistan High Commissioner Imran Haider, Sri Lankan High Commissioner Dharmapala Weerakkody and Maldivian High Commissioner Shiuneen Rasheed joined the meeting, according to a message received here.

The Secretary-General also met Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and thanked him for updating her on preparations for the upcoming general election. "We discussed ... how the Commonwealth can support the full participation of all Bangladeshis," she said.

She met representatives of major political parties and said she valued hearing their views on ensuring a peaceful, credible and participatory election, as outlined in the Commonwealth Charter.

Botchwey also met Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed and appreciated his reflections on the rule of law, judicial independence and the judiciary's role in inclusive governance.

She reaffirmed that the Commonwealth would continue supporting Bangladesh in building judicial capacity and sharing best practices.
Her first engagement in Bangladesh was with youth leaders. "I was moved by their passion as they spoke about this moment of transition and their expectations for a democracy that works for all," she said.

The Secretary-General said the Commonwealth will stand with the young people of Bangladesh as they work to build a just and prosperous future.
Botchwey is also briefing stakeholders on the Commonwealth's new Strategic Plan, which places democracy among its core pillars, and exploring how tailored support can best serve the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.

Her visit, taking place from November 20-24 ahead of the February 2026 national election, includes a scheduled meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today to discuss deepening cooperation on democracy, governance, stability and national progress.

Before her visit, she described Bangladesh as a valued member of the Commonwealth, noting its long-standing partnership since independence. "The Commonwealth and Bangladesh have a strong partnership, one that matters even more now as the country heads to the polls next year," she said.

"Our shared commitment remains supporting a peaceful, inclusive and participatory environment where rights and freedoms are respected. The people of Bangladesh can continue to count on the Commonwealth as a trusted partner," Botchwey added.

Her visit follows a recent mission by the Commonwealth pre-election assessment team, which met stakeholders across the political spectrum to assess the pre-poll environment.