POBNEWS24, Desk report Dhaka, Apr 19, 2026 : Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman has stressed on the revival of SAARC and strengthening regional cooperation, saying that Bangladesh is committed to establishing peace and harmony in a changing global and regional context.
In an interview with ‘TRT World’ on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomatic Forum in Turkey, he said that Bangladesh’s recent democratic transformation has created a solid foundation for stable governance and progressive foreign policy.
He described it as ‘historic’ and said that it was achieved through peaceful elections and strong public support, which ensured political stability and created opportunities for lively debate in policymaking through an active parliament, civil society and independent media.
Highlighting the low level of regional integration in South Asia, he said that despite being home to about a quarter of the world’s population, the region’s internal trade volume is only about 5 percent.
Recalling the role of late President Ziaur Rahman in establishing regional cooperation, he said that the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is one of the main priorities of the current Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s foreign policy.
He said, “Through dialogue and diplomacy, we can overcome obstacles and utilize the full potential of this region.”
In the context of global peace, the Foreign Minister said that Bangladesh’s vision starts with internal stability, then it is taken forward through regional cooperation and constructive engagement in solving long-standing problems like the Rohingya crisis.
He said that Dhaka is maintaining contact with all parties concerned to find a peaceful solution to this crisis.
The Foreign Minister also highlighted Bangladesh’s significant contribution to the UN peacekeeping mission. He said that Bangladeshi peacekeepers are playing a role in rebuilding communities even when they go beyond their duties.
He said, “They are helping to build the foundation of sustainable peace by building roads, schools and supporting the local community.”
Referring to the Bangladesh-Turkey relationship, he described it as “exceptional and special” and expressed hope for further expansion of cooperation in trade, investment, defense, education and other sectors.
He also stressed the importance of the Bangladeshi diaspora, saying that diaspora is an important part of national development through remittances, skills and global engagement.
The Foreign Minister said that the government is committed to strengthening relations with the diaspora and ensuring their greater involvement in national progress.
