Dhaka: Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has attributed the interim government's overall success in diplomacy to the overwhelmed international support. "After resuming office, we approached all countries and received overwhelmingly positive responses," he told BSS. The foreign adviser highlighted how international envoys promptly called on the interim administration, expressing solidarity and unconditional support. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, took office after deposing the Awami League government in a mass uprising. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Yunus's global stature has played a pivotal role in strengthening Bangladesh's diplomatic outreach, evidenced by his reception at international platforms. The interim government's reform initiatives, spearheaded by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, have been widely endorsed. Prof Yunus received a warm welcome at major global summits in New York and Baku, cementing Bangladesh's standing on the glo bal stage. Touhid also acknowledged challenges, including disinformation campaigns, but emphasized that truth and transparency have prevailed. One of the interim government's most notable diplomatic achievements was securing the release of more than hundreds of Bangladeshi expatriates detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for participating in protests there aligned with the student-led uprising in Bangladesh during August-July. Initially sentenced to lengthy prison terms by the UAE Federal Court, the detainees were later pardoned and deported following high-level diplomatic engagements, including a direct conversation between the Chief Adviser and his UAE counterpart. "Such an incident is unprecedented," Touhid remarked, crediting Professor Yunus's global fame and the government's strategic communication and efforts to clarify that the protests were directed at Bangladesh's internal issues. The case underscored the interim government's ability to address complex international challenges, said the foreig n adviser. Touhid highlighted efforts to restore discipline within the foreign ministry as measures included ending contractual appointments and paving the path of promoting junior officers by not extending tenures of ambassadors post-retirement. "These steps are aimed at clearing administrative backlogs and improving efficiency," he explained. In terms of strengthening relations with major countries, Touhid described the meeting between Chief Adviser Yunus and US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the UNGA as a milestone. This marked the first high-level meeting between the two nations' leaders in 30 years. During the meeting, which is seen as a "rare occasion," US President Joe Biden offered his country's full support to the Prof Muhammad Yunus-led government. Besides, the US sent a high-level delegation for financial and economic cooperation with Bangladesh following the changed political situation. The United States' announcement of a $200 million aid package for Bangladesh's interim government mar ks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations. The European Union reaffirmed its support for democratic elections and reforms as EU High Representative Josep Borrell emphasized cooperation on trade, governance, and human rights, with the EU importing $24 billion in Bangladeshi products annually. Meanwhile, diplomats representing 27 European countries based in Dhaka and New Delhi are set to meet Prof Yunus in a unified show of support for the interim government and strengthening economic cooperation. British Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West's visit to Dhaka highlighted the UK's commitment to supporting the interim government's reform initiatives. "They expressed their willingness to cooperate and sought details on how the UK can support the interim government," Touhid said. Touhid affirmed that all previous governments have maintained good relations with China, and the current regime aims to continue this. China has also reaffirmed its commitment to strengtheni ng bilateral cooperation and non-interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs. Regarding relations with India, Touhid expressed optimism about normalizing relations, emphasizing the need for pragmatic steps to overcome existing challenges. "We consider our relationship with India important, and I believe it is equally important for India," he said. Referring to the upcoming Bangladesh-India Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) to be held in Dhaka next month, the foreign adviser said, "I believe the FOC will be the first step in that direction." Bilateral interactions, including a telephone conversation between Professor Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his meeting with Indian external minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of UNGA, have set the stage for improved ties. Touhid acknowledged the challenges in the current political climate, stating, "There may be a few hiccups - it's normal. Hiccups happen when there are significant changes. We aim to create a good working relationship by overcom ing these issues for the benefit of both sides." However, complexities stem from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's stay in India following her resignation amid political upheaval. Foreign relations experts observed that Sheikh Hasina's resignation has opened the door for a reevaluation of Bangladesh's foreign policy, creating fresh opportunities to reshape alliances and strengthen regional ties.
