Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey commenced her inaugural official visit to Bangladesh on Thursday to explore areas of mutual interest, including enhancing cooperation to advance the people's aspirations for peace, stability, democracy, good governance, and prosperity.
Arriving in Dhaka for a four-day visit from November 20 to 24, she will engage with prominent members of the interim government, including Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, leaders of political parties, the Chief Election Commissioner, high commissioners, and other representatives, according to the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Her visit precedes Bangladesh’s general election anticipated in February 2026 and occurs at a time the Secretariat characterised as a "pivotal moment in the country’s national development."
During her engagements, the Secretary-General will inform stakeholders about the Commonwealth’s new Strategic Plan, which designates democracy as one of its three fundamental pillars, and will seek advice on how customised Commonwealth assistance can most effectively support the people of Bangladesh.
Speaking in advance of her visit, Botchwey characterised Bangladesh as a valued member of the Commonwealth, emphasising that the Commonwealth was the first intergovernmental organisation Bangladesh affiliated with shortly after independence.
"The Commonwealth and Bangladesh maintain a robust partnership, which is of even greater significance now as the country approaches the upcoming elections next year," she stated.
In accordance with the Commonwealth Charter, she stated that she would engage with a diverse array of stakeholders "to gain a firsthand understanding of the context and to identify areas where informed support can be provided in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect."
"Our mutual commitment with Bangladesh continues to be the promotion of a peaceful, inclusive, and participatory environment, in which the rights and fundamental freedoms of every citizen are upheld," she further stated.
That is the expectation that the people of Bangladesh rightfully hold for us. They may continue to rely on the Commonwealth as a dependable partner in their endeavours to establish a fair, inclusive, and prosperous future for everyone.
The Secretary-General also extended her best wishes to the people of Bangladesh as they prepare to exercise their right to vote and reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s full support for them in their democratic pursuits.
The Bangladesh High Commission in London stated that the visit is anticipated to enhance the relationship between Bangladesh and the Commonwealth.
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