Bangladesh’s foreign policy: Post-Independence era and present situation

Bangladesh, born through the Liberation War of 1971, had one primary goal in its early years—securing international recognition as an independent and sovereign state. To establish its relevance in global geopolitics and build economic resilience, the nation needed a pragmatic and forward-looking foreign policy.

On January 12, 1972, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s diplomatic stance with a simple yet powerful principle: “Friendship with all, malice towards none.” Over the past 54 years, this policy has evolved, adapting to shifting global dynamics while maintaining its core values.

Post-independence era (1972-1975): Laying the foundation

In the immediate years after independence, Bangladesh’s foreign policy was shaped by two key priorities:

1. Securing international recognition as a sovereign state.

2. Rebuilding the nation’s war-ravaged economy through diplomatic and economic cooperation.

Guided by the principle of “Friendship with all, malice towards none,” Bangladesh aligned itself with the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to balance relations between global superpowers. While India and the Soviet Union played pivotal roles in Bangladesh’s independence, efforts were also made to build diplomatic ties with Western nations.

Key milestones:

United Nations Membership (1974): This marked Bangladesh’s formal entry into the global diplomatic arena.

Joining the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in 1975: Strengthened ties with the Muslim-majority world despite initial challenges.

However, following Bangabandhu’s assassination in 1975, Bangladesh's foreign policy faced temporary setbacks as political instability took precedence over international relations.

Military rule and a new diplomatic direction (1975-1990): Following the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s foreign policy underwent a significant shift under the military-led governments of General Ziaur Rahman and Hussein Muhammad Ershad. This period marked a strategic realignment, with increased engagement with the Western world, stronger economic and security cooperation with China and the Middle East, and a growing emphasis on Bangladesh’s Islamic identity in global diplomacy.

Ziaur Rahman’s regime: Strengthening ties with the West and Middle East

Under Ziaur Rahman, Bangladesh prioritized building closer relationships with the United States and Saudi Arabia, while also fostering economic partnerships with other Middle Eastern nations such as the UAE.

This era witnessed:

1. Bangladesh’s official membership in the OIC (1983), reflecting a deeper alignment with Islamic nations.

2. Stronger religious and economic ties with Middle Eastern countries, leading to increased remittances from expatriate workers.

3. A new diplomatic relationship with China, which later became a key defense and trade partner.

4. Re-establishing ties with the U.S., resulting in renewed Western aid and investment.



Ershad’s policy: Regional cooperation and economic expansion

During Hussein Muhammad Ershad’s rule, Bangladesh expanded its focus on Islamic solidarity and regional collaboration:

SAARC formation (1985): Ershad played a pivotal role in founding the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), a landmark initiative for economic and political integration in South Asia.

Stronger relations with Malaysia & Indonesia, leading to deeper trade and diplomatic ties.

An open-market policy that encouraged foreign investment, particularly from Japan and South Korea in the textile and electronics industries.

Challenges and relations with India

Despite these diplomatic successes, Bangladesh’s relations with India faced challenges, particularly over:

1. The Farakka Barrage dispute, which created tensions over water-sharing rights.

2. Border issues, which occasionally strained bilateral ties.

As Bangladesh leaned more toward Western donors for economic assistance, exports and overseas labor markets began to thrive, setting the stage for future economic growth. However, by the late 1980s, the decline of the Soviet Union further pushed Bangladesh toward deeper engagement with the West, presenting new foreign policy challenges.


Transition to democracy and balanced diplomacy (1991-2008)

With the restoration of democracy in the 1990s, Bangladesh’s foreign policy became more dynamic and balanced. Successive governments led by the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) pursued diplomatic strategies aimed at maintaining equilibrium between India, China, and the West.

Under Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s leadership, the adoption of the “Look East” policy strengthened economic ties with Malaysia and Singapore, fostering greater regional trade and investment.

Economic diplomacy and global recognition

In the 2000s, Bangladesh shifted towards economic diplomacy, emphasizing trade, labor exports, and industrial growth. This period saw:

The expansion of the garment industry, making Bangladesh a key player in global apparel exports.

A significant increase in overseas labor migration, boosting foreign remittances and economic resilience.

Steady GDP growth, enhancing Bangladesh’s influence in international forums.

A strong presence in UN peacekeeping missions elevates Bangladesh’s global reputation.

Multi-pronged strategy for prosperity (2009-2024)

Since 2009, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government has aligned foreign policy with the goals of “Digital Bangladesh” and sustainable development. Following the principle of “Friendship to All, Malice to None,” Bangladesh has expanded trade, investment, and technological cooperation with global superpowers, including China, India, the United States, Japan, and Russia.

Balancing the China-India equation

Bangladesh has skillfully navigated its relations with both China and India, ensuring economic and strategic benefits for both nations. Key developments include:

1. Active participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), facilitating infrastructure growth.

2. Agreements with India on transit, power, and port development, strengthening regional connectivity.

Rohingya crisis: Bangladesh’s humanitarian leadership

Since 2017, Bangladesh has become a central figure in the global human rights movement by hosting over 1.1 million Rohingya refugees who were forcibly displaced from Myanmar. The country’s response to the crisis has included active diplomacy at the United Nations and international courts to apply pressure on Myanmar for a resolution. Bangladesh continues to advocate for the rights of the Rohingya people, calling for international support and a durable solution to the crisis.

Climate diplomacy: Leading the charge for vulnerable nations

As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, Bangladesh has emerged as a leader in climate diplomacy, particularly in addressing the existential threats posed by sea level rise. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been vocal on the global stage, demanding compensation from developed nations for the damage caused by climate change, and through the Climate Vulnerable Forum, Bangladesh has pushed for meaningful climate action and support for countries most at risk.

Indo-Pacific strategy: Maritime security and blue economy

In line with global strategic shifts, Bangladesh is actively engaging in the Indo-Pacific region by focusing on maritime security and developing its blue economy. The country is working to align its policies with the United States' Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and India’s Neighborhood First approach, emphasizing regional cooperation and economic development in the maritime sector.

Challenges and future prospects

Looking ahead, Bangladesh faces several challenges in its foreign policy:

Balancing the influences of China, India, and the United States remains a delicate task, as these powers have competing interests in the region.

Resolving the Rohingya crisis remains a diplomatic priority, alongside securing climate finance and ensuring sustainable solutions for the country’s future.

Bangladesh will also need to manage the graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026, which will impact its trade advantages and economic partnerships.

To maintain long-term growth, Bangladesh must diversify its labor markets and invest in the digital economy, particularly through new partnerships in the Middle East.

Strengthening regional cooperation: SAARC’s role

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), established during General Ershad’s tenure, remains a strategic priority for Bangladesh. The economic liberalization policies he initiated continue to serve as a model for Bangladesh’s growing export-oriented economy, driving regional cooperation and economic integration.

Foreign policy under Dr Yunus' interim government

While figures like Dr Muhammad Yunus have played a pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh’s positive global image, their direct influence on state policy remains limited. The current foreign policy direction is firmly guided by the policies of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, focusing on maintaining strategic relations with key global powers while advancing Bangladesh's national interests.

Priority areas of foreign policy

1. Climate justice: Under Dr Yunus’ interim government, climate diplomacy gained prominence as Bangladesh actively pressured developed nations to fulfill their commitments to the Global Climate Fund. Yunus’s social business model facilitated partnerships with developing countries, promoting the exchange of environmentally friendly technologies to tackle climate challenges.

2. Rohingya resettlement: Bangladesh's foreign policy during this time placed significant emphasis on securing justice for the Rohingya. Dr Yunus spearheaded diplomatic efforts for tough negotiations with Myanmar, while also mobilizing a global coalition through the United Nations and international courts to ensure accountability and a sustainable resolution to the crisis.

3. Economic diplomacy: Dr Yunus presented Bangladesh as a global example of "soft power" by promoting initiatives like microfinance and women's empowerment. These policies were shared internationally, enhancing Bangladesh’s economic diplomacy and strengthening its influence on the global stage.

4. Technology and education cooperation: The interim government focused on collaborations in digital literacy and sustainable agricultural technology, forming agreements with countries such as India, Japan, and the European Union. These partnerships helped improve technological innovation and fostered growth in Bangladesh's education sector.

5. Anti-war stance: In the face of global conflicts, such as the Ukraine-Russia war and the Middle East crisis, Bangladesh under Yunus maintained a neutral stance. The government was vocal in supporting humanitarian aid channels, aiming to help those affected while promoting peace and avoiding entanglement in these conflicts.