Bangladesh boosts defence diplomacy with military equipment aid to Africa, Maldives

Bangladesh's armed forces are expanding their role in international relations by supplying locally produced military equipment to several African countries and the Maldives.

This development was highlighted by the Chief of Army Staff, General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed, at a seminar, titled "Defense Diplomacy: Strategy for Bangladesh", organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) on Thursday (18 April).

The seminar, held at the BIISS auditorium in the capital's Eskaton, saw General Shafiuddin announce the imminent shipment of thousands of military uniforms to the Central African Republic.

Additionally, Bangladesh plans to provide innovative, small, remote-controlled vehicles to the Gambian military, with similar equipment potentially destined for Congo and other African nations. The army chief also mentioned ongoing military vehicle assistance to the Maldives.

Addressing the complex situation in Myanmar, General Shafiuddin acknowledged past engagement with the Myanmar army. However, he noted that Western sanctions and other developments have made communication more challenging. Despite this, Bangladesh remains committed to a peaceful resolution of problems and continues its efforts to maintain friendly relations.

General Shafiuddin emphasised the importance of building Bangladesh's military capabilities for national security. "Intentions can change overnight, but capabilities cannot," he said.

The seminar, chaired by BIISS Chairman Ambassador AFM Gousal Azam Sarker, featured presentations from various experts.

Prof SM Ali Ashraf of Dhaka University discussed the evolving nature of defence diplomacy and its role in foreign policy. BIISS research fellow ASM Tarek Hasan Semul explored the challenges and opportunities presented by growing geopolitical competition for Bangladesh's defence diplomacy efforts.

Retired military officials Major General Main Ullah Choudhury and Air Vice Marshal Mahmud Hussain also delivered talks on the role of defence diplomacy in the United Nations and future directions for Bangladesh, respectively.

Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman was also present at the seminar.