PM Hasina portrays Bangladesh as proactive in development

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's participation in the 60th Munich Security Conference was of utmost importance in the current global context. Held in Germany, one of Europe's most powerful nations for the past 60 years, this conference has been a significant fixture. The journey of this conference began in 1963, with its early editions largely focused on the Western world, especially amidst the backdrop of the Cold War. The issues of security between the United States and the Soviet Union were paramount in the initial years of the conference. Following the conclusion of the Cold War, the Munich Security Conference saw an increase in participation from various countries. Security issues from different nations were discussed extensively. Russian President Vladimir Putin has participated in this conference multiple times, emphasizing the development of relations between Russia and the European Union as a crucial agenda.

The Munich Security Conference of 2024 was convened at a time when Europe is grappling with a conflict. Unrest is ongoing in Palestine, with Russia's incursion into Ukraine escalating security risks in the region. Russia perceives that Western powers, particularly the United States and its NATO allies, have indirectly fueled this conflict. Consequently, Ukraine has faced significant threats to its security. Against the backdrop of geopolitical shifts, the 2024 Munich Security Conference took place in a completely different environment.

Government heads from nearly 50 countries participated in the conference, along with around 100 ministers and numerous diplomats. The primary focus of this conference was to discuss issues of international security. Participating leaders seized the opportunity for bilateral discussions on various matters of mutual interest. Through these discussions, they found opportunities for dialogue on different issues, fostering mutual understanding among global leaders.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also participated in past Munich Security Conferences. Through her recent participation in the concluded conference, Bangladesh had the opportunity to articulate its foreign policy at the global level. This Munich Security Conference was particularly significant for Bangladesh. Just a few days prior, Bangladesh held its twelfth national parliamentary elections, during which Sheikh Hasina's Awami League secured power for the fourth consecutive term. Sheikh Hasina was elected Prime Minister for the fourth time in succession. Following the formation of the fourth-term government and assuming the responsibilities of the Prime Minister, her first foreign visit was to attend this conference. Hence, this conference was of special importance for Bangladesh as well.

By participating in the conference, Bangladesh had the opportunity to position itself on various issues. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina adeptly advocated for Bangladesh's peaceful stance, contributing positively to the country's image. Her active participation in promoting peace during the conference underscored Bangladesh's position. With this, Bangladesh participated in the conference for the third time in a decade, signifying the country's growing geopolitical significance over the past decade.

In recent times, Bangladesh has experienced some differences or divergences with certain countries, including the United States, on internal political issues and other matters. While efforts have been made to resolve these differences, it is hoped that the recent Munich Security Conference will contribute to addressing them further. A key feature of Bangladesh's foreign policy is the principle that "friendship with all, malice towards none." Bangladesh has been able to maintain excellent bilateral relations with China. Its bilateral relationship with India is historically well-established. Bangladesh also enjoys good bilateral relations with Russia. This conference is expected to enhance Bangladesh's efforts to address some of the divergences it has with certain Western countries on various issues.

Bangladesh has achieved several diplomatic successes at the Munich Security Conference. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, by advocating for diverting the funds spent on warfare towards combating climate change and promoting human welfare, has garnered appreciation. Bangladesh's desire for peace at the international level, as expressed through this advocacy, has been reciprocated. Participation in the conference has showcased Bangladesh's economic growth over the past 15 years, its commitment to environmental sustainability, empowerment of women, and achievements in various social sectors. It has also provided an opportunity for Bangladesh to present its own perspectives on various international issues and strengthen its position in favor of global peace. Particularly noteworthy is Bangladesh's call for cessation of hostilities in Ukraine, which it has been advocating since the onset of the conflict.

Bangladesh has consistently emphasized peacebuilding efforts without taking sides in conflicts such as the Ukraine war, which has caused significant casualties and global instability. Despite not directly aligning with any party in the Ukraine conflict, countries like Bangladesh have suffered and continue to suffer from its repercussions. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has repeatedly spoken against economic sanctions, stating that they are not beneficial for anyone. Through this stance, she has represented the interests of developing countries effectively. Additionally, she has highlighted at the conference the challenges faced by developing and vulnerable nations due to climate change. Participation in the conference and playing an effective role have helped Sheikh Hasina assert Bangladesh's position and fostered further development in bilateral relations with Western countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy. During the conference, bilateral meetings were also held with the Indian Foreign Minister and the President of Ukraine, further enhancing Bangladesh's diplomatic ties. The conference has provided opportunities for Bangladesh to strengthen its bilateral diplomatic relations and engage with multilateral organizations such as the World Trade Organization, where Prime Minister Hasina has demonstrated great skill in furthering cooperation.

The meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh and President Zelensky of Ukraine was particularly significant for various reasons, which naturally piqued Ukraine's interest. Their bilateral meeting was undeniably a crucial diplomatic event. Despite being embroiled in the conflict with Russia, which supports Bangladesh in various ways, such as during its Liberation War, and currently in the development of the Rooppur nuclear power plant, Bangladesh has consistently maintained strong bilateral relations with Russia in different sectors, including internal politics. Notably, during the 12th national parliamentary elections, Bangladesh voted in favor of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty in several international forums, including the United Nations.

It is essential to remember that the meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and President Zelensky was solely a diplomatic event. There was no expression of support or opposition to any country. This meeting aligns with Bangladesh's fundamental principles of foreign policy. The appointed Russian Ambassador to Dhaka emphasized that the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and President Zelensky would not have any adverse impact on Russia's existing bilateral relations with Bangladesh. It's worth mentioning that Bangladesh has previously voted in favor of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty in several international forums, including the United Nations.

Bangladesh has always demonstrated respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of other countries, just as it has shown respect for Ukraine's integrity and sovereignty. Similarly, Bangladesh has also prioritized ensuring the security of Russia. Bangladesh has followed a policy of maintaining balance and stability, particularly concerning the Ukraine issue. In this regard, we see a direct reflection of Bangladesh's foreign policy principles. The conflict in Ukraine has created global economic and security risks. During her discussion with Ukrainian President Zelensky, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina highlighted Bangladesh's position and perspective. She strongly urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing Ukraine's responsibility in this regard. The situation in Ukraine is extremely critical, and Bangladesh has hinted at supporting Ukraine's efforts to move away from this situation. The risks posed by the conflict in Ukraine were articulated very effectively by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her bilateral discussion with President Zelensky. Those who are not directly involved in the conflict are the ones suffering the most. As a representative of a developing country, Sheikh Hasina courageously advocated for an end to the war.

Author: Professor, Department of International Relations, University of Dhaka and Member, Bangladesh Public Service Commission
Transcribe: M A Khaleque