Staff Reporter:
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain yesterday reaffirmed that Bangladesh continues to pursue a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy, maintaining close ties with both the United States and China while safeguarding its national interests.
“There is nothing for anyone to worry about,” the Adviser told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Af-fairs when asked about concerns expressed by the US regarding Bangladesh’s growing engagement with China.
“We have deep relations with the United States and extensive economic relations with China. I don’t think there is any reason for concern, since we have maintained a balance,” he said.
The adviser emphasized that Bangladesh’s foreign policy remains rooted in mutual respect and construc-tive cooperation, adding that the government sees no reason to avoid engagement with any particular country.
The adviser expressed confidence that future governments will continue to uphold this policy of balance.
“I think Bangladesh receives considerable attention internationally compared to its size and strength,” he said, adding, “Those who are bigger and stronger than us naturally have greater visibility. But consider-ing our position, our presence is not small – we are maintaining visibility everywhere.”
He reiterated that Bangladesh’s foreign policy will continue to be guided by pragmatism, economic di-plomacy and peaceful coexistence.
Touhid’s remarks came amid recent discussions in Washington, where Brent Christensen, nominee for US Ambassador to Bangladesh, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that if confirmed, he would work closely with Dhaka to strengthen bilateral ties while highlighting “the risks from Chinese activity” in the region.
Christensen said the United States “supports Bangladesh in its journey toward a bright and democratic future,” adding that he looks forward to leading the Embassy Dhaka team to build strong relations with both the current interim government and its democratically elected successor.
Commenting on Bangladesh’s growing international profile, Touhid said the country’s presence in the global arena has expanded significantly in proportion to its economic and political progress.
