The Bangladeshi government is pursuing an inclusive foreign policy that engages constructively with all neighbouring countries while placing national interest at its core, according to the prime minister's economic adviser, Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir.
Speaking at a diplomatic seminar hosted by the South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance at North South University, Titumir explained that the administration is moving away from exclusive diplomatic alignments. He noted that recent diplomatic engagements by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, including visits to Malaysia and China, reflect a desire to build balanced relationships across the region rather than favour specific nations or political blocs.
Titumir emphasised that the prime minister's visit to Beijing in June marked the beginning of a broader series of diplomatic engagements. He confirmed that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman plans to visit several neighbouring countries to reinforce a balanced diplomatic strategy.
The adviser highlighted the governing principle of "Bangladesh First", stating that international partnerships are most effective when they directly support local development, national sovereignty, and public welfare. He added that Bangladesh must maintain a self-reliant economic trajectory while cooperating with international partners on the basis of equality and mutual respect.
Bilateral ties between Dhaka and Beijing have entered a new phase of strategic cooperation following the June summit in Beijing. Both countries have formally elevated their relationship to a "China-Bangladesh Community with a Shared Future in the New Era." Reaffirming Dhaka's long-standing diplomatic position, Titumir stated that Bangladesh remains committed to the one-China principle and relevant United Nations resolutions regarding territorial integrity.
The adviser paid tribute to historical figures who established bilateral relations between the two nations, noting early diplomatic milestones under former president Ziaur Rahman in the late 1970s and subsequent work by former prime minister Khaleda Zia. He stressed that, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh continues to pursue an independent foreign policy centred on South-South cooperation and regional stability.
Economic cooperation remains a cornerstone of the expanding relationship. Titumir pointed to practical ventures, including multimodal transportation projects, the Chinese Economic Zone in Chattogram, the expansion of Mongla Port, and proposed regional connectivity corridors linking Kunming with Chattogram. He noted that Bangladesh's Five-Year Strategic Framework for Reform and Development aligns closely with China's upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, creating structured opportunities for long-term collaboration.
To manage their expanding ties, Dhaka and Beijing are working to establish a 2+2 dialogue on diplomacy and defence, alongside an inaugural foreign minister-level strategic dialogue designed to provide high-level coordination.
Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam noted that both nations are expanding collaboration across key sectors, including agriculture, water security, supply chains, and technology. He stressed that the primary focus must be converting high-level agreements into impactful projects supported by strong institutional accountability.
Cultural Counsellor Li Shaopeng, representing the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, welcomed the deepening relations and highlighted the importance of strengthening educational and community bonds. He underlined political trust, international coordination, and shared development as key pillars of future cooperation, calling for greater emphasis on vocational training and cultural exchanges.
Scholars at the seminar, including Ambassador Mohammad Sufiur Rahman and Dr Liu Zongyi, observed that bilateral relations have moved beyond traditional development assistance into a broader strategic phase. They urged policymakers to maintain long-term planning, preserve economic sovereignty, and avoid overreliance on any single international partner while navigating regional geopolitics.
