Seoul:Md. Ismail Zabiullah, a member of the BNP Standing Committee and Prime Minister's Adviser on Public Administration, has been elected vice-chairperson of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP). The election occurred during the 13th General Assembly of ICAPP, which took place at The Shilla Seoul hotel in South Korea.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the inaugural ceremony of the assembly was jointly hosted by South Korea's ruling Minju (Democratic) Party and the opposition People Power Party. Zabiullah addressed the first plenary session, emphasizing the need for stronger democracy, good governance, the rule of law, and international cooperation to address global political instability and trust issues.
Zabiullah described the conference theme, "Rebuilding Trust in a Changing World," as crucial for global peace and prosperity, stressing the importance of treating democracy as a social contract built on accountability, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights. He highlighted the BNP's perspective under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, viewing their mandate as a responsibility to serve the people and resolve conflicts through dialogue.
Expressing concern over humanitarian crises, particularly in Palestine, Zabiullah emphasized the precedence of human dignity over geopolitical interests and called for equal application of international principles. He underscored the significance of intercontinental political dialogue amid global uncertainties and advocated for an ICAPP mechanism to prevent cross-border political interference.
Addressing artificial intelligence (AI), Zabiullah acknowledged its potential to enhance productivity but warned of its threat to livelihoods and use in modern warfare. He urged ICAPP to develop a strategic policy framework for developing countries to tackle AI challenges.
Zabiullah also stressed the allocation of national GDP for climate change and equitable climate financing. He warned against misinformation's impact on youth mental health and called for prioritizing their well-being and increasing engagement among political parties at all levels.
Concluding his address, Zabiullah reaffirmed Bangladesh and the BNP's commitment to democratic values and international cooperation, advocating for restoring trust as a commitment to a shared future.