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Dhaka, Bangladesh – The recent address by Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir, as reported by the Daily Star, outlines a clear and ambitious vision for Bangladesh's foreign policy. This "Bangladesh First" approach signifies a strategic pivot towards greater autonomy and self-reliance on the global stage. The adviser emphasized a multi-dimensional, flexible policy, moving away from dependence on any single nation, a crucial stance given the rapidly shifting global power dynamics.

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Based on the Bangladesh First policy, the government will follow a foreign policy that is multi-dimensional, flexible, and not centred on any single country.

Kobir’s remarks highlight a pragmatic understanding of the evolving world order, where the dominance of a single superpower is waning. Bangladesh, under this new vision, seeks to navigate these changes by fostering constructive relations with all countries while safeguarding its national interest and sovereignty. This balanced approach is not merely diplomatic rhetoric; it reflects a deep-seated desire to make independent decisions and avoid being drawn into geopolitical rivalries.

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In this context, Bangladesh must pursue a strategically flexible and balanced foreign policy, he observed, saying Bangladesh will maintain constructive relations with all countries but will not depend on any single nation.

The focus on economic diplomacy, including expanding export markets, attracting diverse foreign investment, ensuring energy security, and enhancing regional trade, is particularly noteworthy. Bangladesh aspires to become an economic bridge between South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Indo-Pacific, a bold move that could significantly boost its economic standing. The commitment to an inclusive, open, and cooperative Indo-Pacific region, without taking sides, demonstrates a nuanced understanding of regional complexities.

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The government’s main objective will be to make independent decisions while safeguarding national interest and sovereignty, he asserted.

Furthermore, Bangladesh's proactive stance on climate change, positioning itself as a leader in global climate diplomacy and advocating for climate justice, is a testament to its vulnerability and its determination to influence international action. The adviser's assertion that international acceptance hinges on internal governance, democracy, and the rule of law underscores a commitment to domestic reforms. The promise to avoid a return to authoritarianism and to build a sovereign, economically strong, and globally respected Bangladesh resonates deeply with the nation's aspirations.

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Economic diplomacy will be one of the top priorities of the new government’s foreign policy.