State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir has said Bangladesh must pursue a foreign policy that is principled, pragmatic and firmly anchored in national interest amid a rapidly changing global environment.

Speaking at the National Defence College (NDC), Mirpur, to participants of the NDC course, he said intensifying geopolitical competition, evolving security challenges, economic vulnerabilities, technological changes, climate change and transnational threats require Bangladesh to adopt a forward-looking foreign policy.

Stressing that ‘Bangladesh first’ policy does not mean isolation, but keeping Bangladesh’s interests at the centre of diplomacy while protecting sovereignty and expanding partnerships based on mutual respect and benefit.

The State Minister emphasized stronger regional connectivity, greater economic integration and practical cooperation with neighbouring countries.

He said Bangladesh’s relations with major powers—including China, India, Japan, the United States and the European Union—should be guided by balance and clarity, recognizing their distinct opportunities and challenges.

He also underscored the protection of the rights, dignity and welfare of Bangladeshi citizens abroad.

“Bangladesh’s foreign policy must be confident without being confrontational, open without being dependent, and pragmatic without compromising our national interests,” he said.