Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has warned that the global energy crisis could trigger severe economic shocks for developing countries, urging coordinated international action to stabilise fuel supply and energy markets.
Speaking in an interview during ADF Talks on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Dr Khalilur Rahman said ongoing volatility in global oil markets, liquefied petroleum gas supplies and fertiliser shipments poses significant risks to energy-importing nations. He warned that the current situation could have consequences broader than the oil shocks of the 1970s if disruptions persist.
“Young nations and developing economies suffered deeply in the 1980s after earlier oil shocks. We do not want a repetition of history,” he said.
He noted that Bangladesh remains highly vulnerable as a net energy importer, relying on external supplies of oil, LPG and fertiliser. Much of this trade passes through strategic maritime routes, making uninterrupted shipping critical for maintaining stable fuel availability and price control.
The foreign minister stressed that keeping key sea lanes open for global commerce is essential for energy security and economic stability. Any prolonged disruption to shipping routes, particularly in sensitive corridors, could tighten supply chains, increase fuel costs and intensify inflationary pressure across developing economies.
He said such disruptions would directly affect agriculture, industry and household energy consumption in Bangladesh. The impact would be particularly acute during the current sowing season, when demand for diesel and fertiliser is at its peak.
Despite global pressures, Dr Khalilur Rahman said the government is attempting to shield consumers from the worst effects of rising energy costs. Measures include energy conservation policies, fuel rationing and adjustments to office and institutional schedules aimed at reducing electricity demand and easing pressure on fuel imports.
Turning to domestic developments, he described the February 2026 parliamentary elections as one of the most peaceful in the country’s history, adding that the outcome had restored public confidence in democratic processes.
He said the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s landslide victory carried significant responsibility, and the government had already introduced targeted support measures, including family cards for low-income households and farmers’ cards to support agricultural production.
Outlining foreign policy, Dr Khalilur Rahman said Bangladesh would follow a “Bangladesh First” approach, prioritising national energy security and economic resilience while maintaining balanced relations with international partners.
“Bangladesh First does not mean Bangladesh alone,” he said, adding that the policy is based on mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity.
On his candidacy for President of the United Nations General Assembly, he said his experience at the UN would allow him to assume responsibilities immediately if elected. He pledged to represent all member states, with a focus on the concerns of the Global South, smaller economies and vulnerable nations facing energy and economic challenges.
Dr Khalilur Rahman also described the Antalya Diplomacy Forum as an important platform for global dialogue, noting the value of high-level discussions and bilateral engagements in addressing complex issues such as energy security and market stability.
.jpg "LPG cylinder price reduced to Tk1,885 in Bangladesh")