Dhaka: Newly appointed Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman emphasized a return to the foreign policy principles of the late President Ziaur Rahman, stressing the importance of maintaining positive and expansive international relations while safeguarding national interests.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr Khalilur Rahman, speaking at the state guest house Padma, underscored the importance of objectivity in media reporting on foreign affairs, cautioning that imprudent statements could adversely affect international relations. He urged the media to maintain scrutiny and accountability, as the government aims for a people-centric approach in foreign policy.
Dr Rahman announced that a ‘Bangladesh First’ policy would be central to the country’s foreign relations, emphasizing respectful and mutually beneficial interactions with other nations, especially neighbors. This approach will be rooted in principles of sovereign equality, non-interference, national dignity, honor, and reciprocity.
The Foreign Minister outlined the need for a comprehensive reassessment of Bangladesh’s external engagements, aiming to restore a confident and proactive diplomatic posture that reflects the country’s foundational values. Highlighting past achievements, he referred to Bangladesh’s successful bid for a UN Security Council seat and its role in establishing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pragmatic engagement with neighboring countries, addressing complexities and obstacles as they arise. The minister also discussed the ongoing Rohingya crisis, committing to intensified focus and engagement with both Myanmar and the Arakan Army to seek a sustainable resolution.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed joined Dr Rahman at the briefing, emphasizing the government’s focus on protecting national interests while maintaining good international relations. The Foreign Minister also received congratulations from Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, both expressing their intent to strengthen bilateral relations.
Dr Khalilur Rahman, who has a distinguished career in both national and international roles, including positions at the United Nations, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as Foreign Minister. His educational background includes degrees from Dhaka University, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, and the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.