Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman. File Photo

DHAKA, Feb 18, 2026 (BSS) – Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman today declared that “Bangladesh First” will anchor the country’s foreign policy, stressing that Dhaka seeks to maintain good relations with all nations, particularly its neighbours, based on respect and mutual benefit.

“Bangladesh First will be the core philosophy of our foreign policy … we want to maintain good relations with all countries, especially our neighbors. Our goal is to maintain respectful and mutually beneficial relations with everyone,” he told reporters at the state guest house Padma here this evening. 

As his first day at the office, the newly appointed foreign minister outlined a national interest-driven diplomatic approach anchored in sovereign equality, mutual respect and responsible engagement with the international community.

Dr Rahman said the government has undertaken a comprehensive reassessment of Bangladesh’s foreign policy establishing a clear guiding principle—“Bangladesh First.”

“The Honorable Prime Minister (Tarique Rahman) has repeatedly stated in his speeches that Bangladesh First will be the core philosophy of our foreign policy,” he added. 

He emphasized that the policy framework would stand on five key principles: sovereign equality, respect for each other’s independence, non-interference in internal affairs, national dignity and honor, and mutual benefit.

“We will protect our national interest to the very last extent,” he added.

Proactive diplomacy

Responding to a question on regional stability, the foreign minister said Bangladesh seeks to return to a confident and proactive foreign policy posture, recalling the foundations laid by martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

He noted that shortly after gaining United Nations membership, Bangladesh successfully contested a seat at the UN Security Council and played a pivotal role in establishing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to enhance regional connectivity.

“We seek to restore that confident, expanded and positive diplomatic posture,” he said, adding, “Our foreign policy will be entirely centered on national interest. By safeguarding and carefully considering our interests, we will conduct responsible and courageous diplomacy.” 

Dr Rahman said although the responsibilities ahead are challenging, they are equally meaningful.

“Our goal is to build a foreign policy that reflects the will and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh,” he said, pledging to implement a responsible and courageous diplomatic strategy grounded in national interest and constructive global engagement.

Relations with neighbours

On ties with neighboring countries, Dr Rahman reiterated the government’s commitment to balanced and constructive engagement.

“We want to maintain good relations with all countries, especially our neighbors. Our goal is to maintain respectful and mutually beneficial relations with everyone,” he said.

If there are any complexities or stagnation in relationships, efforts will continue to remove those obstacles and normalize ties, he added.

“Our foreign policy will be national interest-driven and fully responsible. We will work solely in the interest of the state, not based on any personal or partisan considerations,” he said.

Bilateral visits

Regarding possible bilateral visits, the foreign minister said it was too early to announce any specific destination.

“This is our first day. We have received invitations from various countries. When appropriate decisions are made, we will inform you in due course,” he said.

Rohingya issue

On the Rohingya crisis, Dr Rahman said the government’s focus would intensify rather than diminish.

“Our focus on the Rohingya issue will not diminish—in fact, it will be further strengthened,” he said, noting that during the interim period Bangladesh maintained communication with both the Myanmar government and the Arakan Army.

“That engagement will continue. We want a swift, realistic and sustainable solution to this problem,” he added.

Media’s role

The foreign minister described the media as an essential partner in conveying Bangladesh’s diplomatic stance but cautioned that foreign policy is highly sensitive.
“An imprudent or misleading statement can affect international relations,” he said, urging journalists to maintain objectivity and avoid rumors.

He assured that the ministry would provide regular information and ensure accountability in its activities.