'Efficient diplomacy is the only way out for Bangladesh to survive'

Given emphasize on Bangladesh current political and economic situation, speakers in a dialogue have expressed their firm belief that standing on an important geopolitical position the country has no option other than implementing strategic efficient diplomacy.

Speakers, former diplomat, civil society members and an academicians made the statement in a public session of TBD Perspective titled "On the Diplomatic Front: South Asia and Beyond" took place in the capital on Wednesday afternoon.

Former ambassador and also the President of Bangladesh Enterprise Institute, M. Humayun Kabir, said that in the 54 year of the liberation, no government of the country have ever tried to build relation with other countries so that they can support us in every means. The previous theory of – “No enemy, manage all” has clearly failed to light up the prospect of the country.

“The geopolitical location of the country has given it the opportunities and the challenges as well. So, we need a realistic approach. For instance, who will be largest global economy by 2050. Obviously, it is China, east-Asia and India. And we are sitting in the middle of the three upcoming largest economy. A small country like Bangladesh can take the advantage and with efficient, technology advancement can reap the benefit. And to bring the result in its favour, efficient diplomacy have no alternative,” he added.

He opined that for Bangladesh it would be more benefitable if they invest more on diplomacy along with defences.

Doctoral Fellow in Georgia State University in USA Asif Bin Ali said that to be survived as country Bangladesh need to ensure military security, economic security and stability. And for this with military weakness, defence would not be a feasible solution. So, the others one, diplomacy would be the suitable one here. The country needs efficient, professional diplomat.

He said political leadership is the leading setback to achieve the goal for Bangladesh and the country need to shift its strong focus on the sector.

Mentioning Dr. Saimum Parvez, the Special Assistant to BNP Chairperson in the Foreign Affairs Committee, he said: "Political situation right now is indicating that BNP is going to form government in the upcoming parliament. And we hope that BNP not following the previous marks, and will give more concentration on reformation of foreign policy like formulating necessary doctrine in this regard."

Dr. Saimum Parvez who is also the Executive Editor of The Road to Democracy said that to solve the major IR issues including Rohingya issues and relation with neighbouring countries, there is no alternative other than having elected government. "And if BNP comes into power the foreign policy will get major attention as the country would need to keep good ties with the global community including USA, China, India, east-Asian countries and destination countries of our expatriates."