Foreign minister dr khalilur rahman emphasized that bangladesh must never again become a “client state:uly diplomatic approach focused on prioritizing “Bangladesh First” while preserving national sovereignty in a complex global landscape. Speaking as the chief guest at a program commemorating the July Mass Uprising Day, Dr Rahman highlighted that one of the key achievements of the July movement was to ensure independence from external influence.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Foreign Minister reiterated that Bangladesh’s foreign policy under the current government is guided by the principle of putting Bangladesh’s interests first. Dr Rahman, referencing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s earlier remarks at the inauguration of the July Memorial Museum, expressed a firm stance against returning to a client state status. He recounted reaching out to the United Nations Secretary-General’s office after the violence on August 1, 2024, to call attention to grave human rights violations in Bangladesh.
Dr Rahman emphasized that the Foreign Ministry plays a crucial role in preventing Bangladesh from reverting to a client state. Reflecting on the July Uprising, he described it as the most brutal time in Bangladesh’s history since independence, underscoring the significance of the movement in shaping the country’s foreign policy.
He also highlighted Bangladesh’s improved international standing since the political transition, citing positive remarks from Trkiye’s foreign minister about Bangladesh’s resurgence on the global stage. Dr Rahman cautioned about navigating an increasingly uncertain international environment, marked by challenges to multilateralism and the erosion of the post-World War II rules-based order.
Dr Rahman recounted Bangladesh’s decision to contest the UN General Assembly presidency, describing it as an early diplomatic success that demonstrated the country’s capability and confidence. He stressed the responsibility imposed by the sacrifices made during the July movement and urged officials to keep Bangladesh’s sovereignty and national interests at the forefront of its foreign policy.