On Saturday, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain stated that Bangladesh will engage as an active and responsible sovereign player amid global geopolitical realignments.
“In moments of realignment, states are tempted to pick sides, but we should first choose the right course,” he stated during the inaugural session of the “Bay of Bengal Conversation 2025” organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at a city hotel.
The adviser stated that Bangladesh would confidently participate in a changing international landscape, focusing on national interests and regional stability.
Bangladesh opts to be an engaged, independent, and accountable participant. We will engage decisively, communicate assertively when necessary, and collaborate effectively, consistently prioritising national interests and regional stability,” he stated.
Highlighting the evolving dynamics of power, he stressed that Bangladesh's alliances should produce concrete outcomes while maintaining sovereignty.
The Bay of Bengal, he observed, is becoming a strategic pivot where Bangladesh aims to assert itself rather than function as a mere transit route.
The adviser highlighted the challenges posed by global instability, referencing situations in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and Myanmar. They emphasised that the shortcomings of crisis-management mechanisms necessitate the establishment of more robust multilateral and regional institutions that can achieve tangible results.
Bangladesh’s involvement in providing refuge for forcibly displaced Rohingyas and its contributions to UN peace missions highlight the nation’s dedication to humanitarian responsibility.
He warned that the weaponisation of information, including misinformation, deepfakes, and AI-driven manipulation, is transforming diplomacy and governance.
He stated that Bangladesh seeks to safeguard its information environment while fostering regulatory frameworks that support both security and individual rights.
In discussing economic realignment, he emphasised that global supply chains, sanctions, and de-risking necessitate Bangladesh to diversify and enhance regional cooperation.
He emphasised the importance of connectivity and partnerships grounded in “mutual opportunity and resilience”, underscoring the vast economic potential of the Bay of Bengal.
The adviser emphasised vulnerabilities related to climate, such as rising sea levels and salinity intrusion. He encouraged coastal nations to establish collaborative frameworks, exchange technology, and develop strategies that are resilient to climate change for security and development.
He expressed gratitude to the Centre for Governance Studies for hosting the forum and characterised the platform as vital for open dialogue during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, the Chief Justice of Bangladesh, delivered the inaugural address, with this year’s theme for the Bay of Bengal Conversation being “Rivals, Ruptures, Realignments.”
This year's conference will focus on global rivalries, regional realities, shifts in alliances and partnerships, information warfare, artificial intelligence, climate change, economic pressures, and migration—issues that shape the world we inhabit on Saturday.
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