Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Wednesday announced that ‘Bangladesh First’ will serve as the guiding principle of the country’s foreign policy, emphasising that all diplomatic engagements will be firmly rooted in national interest.
Speaking to reporters at the state guest house Padma on his first day in office, the minister said Bangladesh aims to maintain friendly and constructive relations with all countries, particularly its neighbours, based on mutual respect and shared benefit.
“’Bangladesh First’ will be the core philosophy of our foreign policy. We want good relations with all nations, especially neighbouring countries. Our objective is respectful and mutually beneficial engagement,” he said.
Dr Khalilur Rahman noted that the government has undertaken a comprehensive review of the country’s foreign policy to align it with this principle.
He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has repeatedly underscored that ‘Bangladesh First’ would anchor the administration’s diplomatic strategy.
According to the minister, the renewed policy framework will rest on five pillars: sovereign equality, respect for independence, non-interference in internal affairs, preservation of national dignity, and mutual benefit.
“We will safeguard our national interest to the fullest extent,” he said.
On regional stability, Dr Khalilur Rahman expressed the government’s desire to revive a confident and proactive diplomatic stance reminiscent of the era of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
He recalled Bangladesh’s early diplomatic achievements, including securing a seat at the UN Security Council soon after joining the United Nations and playing a leading role in founding SAARC to strengthen regional cooperation.
“Our diplomacy will be responsible and courageous, guided entirely by national interest,” he said, adding that the ultimate aim is to reflect the will and aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
Addressing relations with neighbouring countries, the minister reiterated Dhaka’s commitment to balanced engagement. Any existing complexities in bilateral ties would be addressed to restore normalcy, he said, stressing that foreign policy decisions would remain free from personal or partisan considerations.
Regarding possible foreign visits, Dr Khalilur Rahman said discussions are at an early stage. Although invitations have been received from several countries, specific plans will be announced later.
On the Rohingya crisis, he affirmed that the government’s attention to the issue would intensify. Bangladesh will continue its engagement with both the Myanmar government and the Arakan Army to pursue a swift, realistic and sustainable solution.
Highlighting the role of the media, the foreign minister described journalists as important partners in communicating Bangladesh’s diplomatic stance. However, he cautioned that foreign policy is sensitive, and urged reporters to avoid speculation or misinformation.
He assured regular briefings and transparency from the ministry moving forward.
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