Party chief Tariq Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh’s external relations will be guided strictly by national interest under a “Bangladesh First” approach.
Bangladesh’s PM designate Tariq Rahman
New Delhi: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured a landslide victory in the general elections, ushering in a new phase in Dhaka’s foreign policy. Following the win, party chief Tariq Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh’s external relations will be guided strictly by national interest under a “Bangladesh First” approach.
Responding to questions about ties with India, Rahman said the country’s foreign policy would be shaped by “the interests of Bangladesh and its people,” adding that supporters of democracy and national independence had renewed their faith in the BNP.
Foreign Policy to Be Driven by National Interest
Rahman reiterated that safeguarding Bangladesh’s sovereignty and advancing the welfare of its citizens would be the cornerstone of all diplomatic decisions. “A foreign policy that serves the best interests of Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi people comes first,” he said.
Addressing broader international engagement, BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury stated that the party would pursue multilateralism rather than a country-specific alignment. The proposed “Bangladesh First” doctrine is seen as an effort to balance relations with key regional players, including India, China, and Pakistan.
Focus on Stronger Regional Cooperation
Humayun Kabir, who oversaw international affairs for Rahman and is expected to hold a key role in the new administration, underscored the importance of building “strong cooperation between our people.” He indicated that India would be among the countries the new leadership plans to visit, though no specific timeline was provided.
With the BNP’s decisive mandate, Bangladesh appears set to pursue a more assertive, interest-driven diplomacy aimed at recalibrating its regional and global partnerships.
