Diplomats from 11 countries meet Tarique, discuss bilateral relations, BNP's development agenda

Ambassadors and high commissioners from 11 countries met with BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, holding a series of separate and group meetings at his office in Dhaka. 

The discussions included the Canadian high commissioner and the newly appointed US ambassador, followed by a meeting with nine other ambassadors, including representatives from Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark, Spain, and Italy, led by Michael Miller, the ambassador and head of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh.

The party's Joint Secretary General Humayun Kabir announced the meetings this evening (19 January), describing them as cordial and productive. 

He said the discussions focused on important bilateral issues as well as BNP's development agenda, including the party's 31-point plan for governance if it forms the next government. 

Talks also addressed strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations with Canada, the United States, and the European Union.

Humayun Kabir highlighted that both sides were optimistic about continuing positive progress through mutual cooperation, noting that the interim government has already made some achievements. 

He added that, following the 5 August mass uprising of 2024, Bangladeshis will not follow directives from foreign countries, emphasising the nation's sovereignty. 

The meetings also touched on trade, investment, the Rohingya issue, and broader international cooperation. 

When asked about election-related discussions, Kabir said the diplomats were "very excited about the elections," noting a shared sense of anticipation for a democratic transition and satisfaction with the electoral environment.