Dhaka:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Monday highlighted the significance of regional cooperation as a key component of Bangladesh's foreign policy. She emphasized that despite differences among countries, pursuing common interests should remain a priority.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Shama underscored Bangladesh's commitment to fostering regional peace and stability through enhanced trade, economic cooperation, connectivity, energy collaboration, and by addressing transnational challenges collectively. She delivered these remarks during a seminar held in the capital.
The State Minister stressed the revitalization of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation in South Asia. Additionally, she noted Bangladesh's efforts to enhance practical cooperation through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Shama outlined economic diplomacy as the central pillar of Bangladesh's foreign policy, with a focus on translating diplomatic engagements into tangible economic opportunities. She emphasized the pursuit of a foreign policy driven by national interests, strategic autonomy, and the goal of economic prosperity.
Bangladesh aims to engage with countries worldwide based on mutual respect and shared interests, without compromising sovereign decision-making. Shama highlighted the importance of strategic autonomy in making independent decisions aligned with national priorities.
The State Minister also discussed Bangladesh's proactive approach to migration diplomacy, seeking to ensure safe and dignified migration while expanding overseas employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers. She called for stronger international partnerships to protect workers' rights abroad.
On the Rohingya crisis, Shama reiterated Bangladesh's humanitarian responsibility in providing refuge to over a million displaced Rohingyas from Myanmar. She emphasized the need for a sustainable solution through their safe and voluntary return to Myanmar, while working with the United Nations and international community to resolve the crisis.
The seminar, organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), focused on navigating foreign policy pathways in a shifting world. It explored aligning foreign policy with defense and security priorities to address emerging challenges and preserve regional stability.