Seminar on “Foreign Policy of Bangladesh

Seminar on “Foreign Policy of Bangladesh: Navigating Pathways in a Shifting World” on 12 October 2026

The Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) organised a seminar titled “Foreign Policy of Bangladesh: Navigating Pathways in a Shifting World” on 12 October 2026 at the BIISS Auditorium. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, State Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Major General A S M Ridwanur Rahman, awc, afwc, psc, G, Director General, BIISS, delivered the welcome remarks and chaired the session.

Four papers were presented by BIISS researchers: Dr Mahfuz Kabir, Research Director; Dr Sufia Khanom, Research Director; ASM Tarek Hassan Semul, Research Fellow; and Ayesha Binte Towhid, Research Fellow.

The presentations and subsequent discussions explored the importance of pursuing a national interest-driven foreign policy that responds effectively to emerging geopolitical realities while safeguarding Bangladesh’s national sovereignty and strategic autonomy. Particular emphasis was placed on aligning foreign policy with contemporary defence and security priorities to address emerging challenges and contribute to regional stability.

The seminar also examined approaches to prioritising Bangladesh’s economic interests within an increasingly uncertain multilateral system, particularly in the context of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Discussions highlighted the need to strengthen economic resilience, expand international cooperation, and adapt foreign policy strategies to evolving global economic and technological dynamics. Furthermore, the significance of upholding ideological commitments and principled values in shaping a consistent and credible foreign policy was underscored.

Participants emphasised the need for a balanced, pragmatic, and forward-looking foreign policy framework that would safeguard Bangladesh’s national interests while strengthening its position as a responsible actor in the international arena.

Senior officials from various ministries of the Government of Bangladesh, representatives of foreign diplomatic missions, media professionals, business leaders, university faculty members and students, researchers, and representatives of various think tanks attended the seminar. Their active participation in the open discussion sessions enriched the deliberations through valuable opinions, comments, insights, suggestions, and observations.