DHAKA, Feb 18 (V7N) – Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Wednesday announced that “Bangladesh First” will serve as the central guiding philosophy of the country’s foreign policy, emphasizing balanced diplomacy, national interest, and respectful engagement with all nations, especially neighbouring countries.

Speaking to reporters at the state guest house Padma on his first day in office, the newly appointed foreign minister said the government is undertaking a comprehensive reassessment of Bangladesh’s foreign policy framework, placing national interest at its core.

“Bangladesh First will be the core philosophy of our foreign policy … we want to maintain good relations with all countries, especially our neighbors. Our goal is to maintain respectful and mutually beneficial relations with everyone,” he said.

He noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has repeatedly highlighted the importance of a national interest-driven foreign policy in his speeches.

National interest and guiding principles

Dr Rahman said the revised policy would be built on five key principles: sovereign equality, respect for independence, non-interference in internal affairs, national dignity and honor, and mutual benefit.

“We will protect our national interest to the very last extent,” he said, stressing that diplomacy under the new framework would be responsible, courageous and fully aligned with the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.

Proactive diplomacy posture

Responding to questions on regional stability, the foreign minister said Dhaka aims to restore a confident and proactive diplomatic posture inspired by the legacy of martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

He recalled Bangladesh’s early diplomatic achievements, including securing membership at the United Nations and contributing to the formation of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), underscoring the country’s historic role in regional cooperation.

“Our foreign policy will be entirely centered on national interest. By safeguarding and carefully considering our interests, we will conduct responsible and courageous diplomacy,” he added.

Relations with neighbours and global partners

Reiterating Dhaka’s commitment to balanced diplomacy, Dr Rahman said Bangladesh seeks constructive and respectful relations with all countries, particularly its neighbours.

“If there are any complexities or stagnation in relationships, efforts will continue to remove those obstacles and normalize ties,” he said, adding that foreign policy decisions would be based solely on state interests rather than partisan considerations.

Rohingya crisis and future engagements

On the Rohingya issue, the minister said Bangladesh would further strengthen its diplomatic focus on finding a sustainable solution, maintaining engagement with both the Myanmar authorities and the Arakan Army.

“Our focus on the Rohingya issue will not diminish—in fact, it will be further strengthened,” he said, expressing hope for a swift, realistic and lasting resolution to the crisis.

Regarding potential bilateral visits, Dr Rahman said it was too early to announce specific destinations but confirmed that invitations from several countries had already been received.

Media and diplomatic sensitivity

Describing the media as a key partner in presenting Bangladesh’s diplomatic stance, the foreign minister urged journalists to remain objective and cautious, noting that foreign policy is highly sensitive and that misleading statements could affect international relations.

He assured that the ministry would maintain transparency by providing regular updates while pursuing a foreign policy grounded in national interest and constructive global engagement.

END/AJ/RH