Source Dainik Jagaran english
Dhaka: In his first major address after the recent electoral victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, Tarique Rahman emphasized a “Bangladesh First” foreign policy vision, notably refraining from making specific references to India while outlining his diplomatic priorities.
Rahman, who is set to assume office as Prime Minister following his party’s decisive win in the national polls, underscored that his government would pursue a balanced and interest-driven foreign policy. He stressed that Bangladesh’s sovereignty, economic growth, and regional stability would be at the center of all international engagements.
“We will work with all our neighbors and global partners on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests,” Rahman said during his address in Dhaka. While he avoided singling out any country, observers noted the absence of a direct mention of India, a key regional partner with deep economic, cultural, and strategic ties to Bangladesh.
Political analysts interpret the move as a signal that the incoming administration may seek to diversify diplomatic engagements while maintaining pragmatic relations with regional powers. Under the previous government led by Sheikh Hasina, Dhaka had maintained particularly close ties with New Delhi, collaborating on trade, connectivity, and security initiatives.
Rahman’s remarks indicate a possible recalibration rather than a shift away from traditional partners. He highlighted plans to strengthen trade ties, attract foreign investment, and enhance cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors.
The new government’s foreign policy direction is expected to become clearer in the coming weeks as cabinet portfolios are finalized and diplomatic engagements begin. Regional stakeholders, including India and other South Asian nations, are closely watching how the “Bangladesh First” doctrine will translate into concrete policies.
For now, Rahman’s message appears focused on projecting a sovereign, balanced, and economically driven approach to global relations, signaling that Dhaka intends to navigate regional geopolitics with careful diplomacy and strategic autonomy.
