Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to a foreign policy rooted in national interest, sovereignty, and mutual respect, as Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman addressed global leaders at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye.
Speaking on Saturday during the high-level gathering, Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh seeks balanced and equitable relationships with other nations, stressing that partnerships must be mutually beneficial rather than one-sided. His remarks come at a time when the South Asian nation is navigating both a democratic transition and external economic pressures linked to global geopolitical tensions.
“The relationship with other countries should be mutually beneficial and should not be one-sided. So, that is the basic thrust of our policy,” Rahman said, outlining what he described as the core principle guiding Bangladesh’s engagement with the international community.
Rahman, who assumed office following the landslide victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party in February’s general elections, highlighted the government’s guiding philosophy of “Bangladesh first.” According to him, this doctrine places national interest at the forefront of all diplomatic engagements.
“It means that we will protect our interests in our dealings with all countries of the world, and that is our red line,” he stated. He added that Bangladesh’s approach remains anchored in respect for sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national dignity, principles he said are essential for sustainable international cooperation.
The foreign minister also addressed the impact of ongoing global tensions on energy security, particularly the disruption caused by the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has affected the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for global oil shipments.
Rahman warned that countries heavily dependent on imported energy, especially developing and least developed nations, are bearing the brunt of the crisis. “Only through collective action could it return to normal,” he said, calling for coordinated international efforts to stabilize supply chains and mitigate the effects of the disruption.
He noted that Bangladesh has already experienced setbacks in its energy supply, with some sources affected by the conflict. According to him, even if the situation improves, restoring normal market conditions and supply chains would take time.
“If the Strait of Hormuz is not open, it will affect our energy availability,” Rahman explained. “Even if everything goes back to normal, it takes time for the market to stabilize and for supply chains to recover.”
The energy crisis, he added, is forcing governments to reallocate resources, often diverting funds from development projects to address immediate shortages. In Bangladesh, this has created challenges in key sectors such as agriculture, where access to diesel for irrigation and fertilizers has become more difficult.
“Providing diesel for agriculture and irrigation, and fertilizer to farmers has become a challenge,” he said, noting that the government is taking steps to manage the situation and minimize disruptions to food production and rural livelihoods.
In response to rising global energy prices, the Bangladesh government announced an increase in domestic fuel prices late Saturday. According to a notice issued by the Department of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, prices were raised by up to Taka 20 ($0.16) per litre to align with international market conditions and ensure supply stability.
Under the revised pricing structure, diesel is now set at Taka 115 per litre, octane at Taka 140, petrol at Taka 135, and kerosene at Taka 130. The new rates took effect on Sunday, marking the latest adjustment since a previous increase on February 1.
Beyond economic challenges, Rahman also spoke extensively about Bangladesh’s recent democratic transition. Reflecting on the country’s political history, he criticized the previous administration, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, alleging that it was marked by human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.
“For more than a decade, we had a regime that flouted human rights, that resorted to extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and fake elections,” he said.
Rahman contrasted this with the current political environment, describing the most recent general election as a turning point for the country. “Stability has returned,” he stated, adding that the election was “fair, festive, and the most peaceful in our history.”
The polls were the first held since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024 following a popular uprising, marking a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Observers have noted that the transition represents both an opportunity and a challenge, as the new administration seeks to consolidate democratic gains while addressing economic and social pressures.
Looking ahead, Rahman also highlighted his candidacy for the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly. Drawing on his decades of experience within the UN system, he said his vision for the role would focus on advocating for vulnerable nations, particularly those in the Global South, and pushing for reforms within the international body.
He is currently the candidate for the presidency of the 81st session of the General Assembly, and if elected, he pledged to prioritize inclusivity and equity in global decision-making processes.
In closing, the foreign minister expressed appreciation to Türkiye for hosting the forum, describing the event as an important platform for dialogue and cooperation. He noted that he was “deeply impressed” by the organisation of the gathering and expressed a desire to participate in future editions.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum, which brings together global leaders, policymakers, and experts, continues to serve as a venue for addressing pressing international issues, including conflict, economic challenges, and governance. Rahman’s remarks underscored Bangladesh’s evolving role on the global stage as it seeks to balance domestic priorities with active international engagement.
