Zakir Hossain from Dhaka
Bangladesh pursued a pragmatic, interest-driven foreign policy over the past year, maintaining balanced ties with global powers while putting national interest first, Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain said. “We tried to establish balanced relations with all countries, keeping Bangladesh’s interests at the forefront… how successful we’ve been will be judged by the people,” Hossain told state-run news agency BSS.
He described the interim government’s foreign policy as “Bangladesh-centric,” based on reciprocity. “If we give something to India, we expect to get what we need in return—either equally or more. This applies to all countries,” he said.
On India, Hossain said ties remain stable, but Dhaka is now more vocal on “border killings and push-ins.” “We issued stronger protests than before. Nowhere else are people shot dead at borders,” he said. He added Dhaka raised concerns about India pushing Bengali-speaking citizens across the border.
He noted a decline in Bangladeshis traveling to India for shopping or treatment, with many now choosing China or Thailand. “It’s boosting our healthcare sector,” he said.
Hossain said Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ global reputation has helped diplomatically. “His call helped free Bangladeshis in UAE prisons. That’s a real asset,” he said.
Rejecting claims of a tilt toward Pakistan or China, he said Bangladesh seeks balanced ties with all. “We’re not leaning anywhere—we’re protecting our interests,” he said, reaffirming strong US relations under President Trump.
On the Rohingya crisis, Hossain admitted repatriation remains uncertain but hoped for progress. Bangladesh plans to open missions in New Zealand, Malaysia, China, and Ireland. Migrant services are being upgraded, especially in the Middle East.
“We are not hiring on contract. Staffing is tight, but we’re prioritising missions serving migrant workers,” Hossain said, stressing a continued focus on pragmatic, respectful diplomacy.