Bangladesh will work with the outside world while protecting national interests: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said Bangladesh wants to work positively with regional and global partners based on dialogue, partnership and mutual respect.

The prime minister made the remarks in his speech at the opening session of the international conference ‘Bay of Bengal Conversation (BOBC) 2026’ organized by the research organization Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at a restaurant in the capital on Saturday.

The prime minister said, “Bangladesh wants to create new opportunities by increasing cooperation in various areas including trade, energy, education, technology and science based on peace and development while protecting national interests and sovereignty.”

Speaking about the government’s plans the prime minister said there is a plan to construct 20,000 kilometers of canals and waterways over the next five years. Progress has been made on the Padma Spanish project for water conservation and retention. A master plan is also being prepared on the matter. These initiatives will support agriculture and help increase climate resilience.

“Our goal is to plant 250 million trees over the next five years. At the same time the use of solar power, waste recycling and environmentally friendly activities are being encouraged. Green cities and environmentally friendly initiatives can reduce waste while increasing financial capacity and strengthening the economy,” the head of government added.

At the event the prime minister also emphasized the protection of human rights, democratic values and freedom of expression. He said the rule of law must be applied equally in every area. A culture must be developed where government institutions genuinely serve the people of the country.

Regarding the Rohingya crisis the prime minister said Bangladesh is still hosting nearly 1.3 million Rohingya refugees. Their rapid, voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation is Bangladesh’s goal. Continued political support and global funding are needed for this. At the same time the root causes of the crisis must be addressed. The crisis began in Myanmar and its solution must also come from Myanmar.

Highlighting the importance of the Bay of Bengal the prime minister said the sea affects Bangladesh’s future in multiple ways. Bangladesh’s strategic location has created opportunities to connect its ports, waterways and coastal economy with the wider world.

The prime minister further said Bangladesh will protect its national interests and sovereignty. At the same time, it will work positively with all regional and global partners. Peace and development are the basis of shared responsibility and progress. If countries move forward together and increase meaningful regional cooperation its benefits will reach citizens. Bangladesh is ready to play its role in this regard.