State minister clarifies key foreign policy positions ahead of UNGA session

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir has said that there is no possibility of the Prime Minister visiting India prior to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.

Speaking at an exchange of views with leaders of the Electronic Media Journalists Association (EMJA) at a hotel in Sylhet on Saturday morning, the state minister said that the exact dates for the India visit have not yet been finalized, though discussions between the two countries are ongoing.

Junior foreign affairs minister Humayun Kabir talks to Electronic Journalist Media Association members in Sylhet on Satuyrday. Agamir Somoy.

Kabir talked about various issues in the exchange views meeting.

UNGA Session & US Meeting: The Prime Minister will attend the 81st UN General Assembly session, scheduled to begin on September 8, to present the narrative of Bangladesh's new journey. A meeting with US President Donald Trump is likely to take place on the sidelines.

Relations with India: Acknowledging existing issues between the two neighbors, the minister emphasized that channels of dialogue remain open and maintained that Bangladesh should foster good relations with its neighbor.

Energy Sector Concerns: Addressing past irregularities, he remarked that previous corruption in the energy sector is self-evident. The current administration is prioritizing energy security and actively addressing the ongoing crisis.

MACC Agreement & Security Alliances: On discussions regarding the MACC agreement, he said that Bangladesh joining would not be unusual, as modern nations frequently participate in multiple security frameworks. Any decision will be guided strictly by national interest.

Boeing Aircraft Acquisition: Clarifying rumors surrounding foreign pressure, he affirmed that Bangladesh is purchasing Boeing aircraft from the United States based solely on domestic operational needs rather than external influence, adding that more aircraft may be procured in the future if required.

Labor Export to Malaysia: He explained that labor exports to Malaysia faced setbacks due to syndicates formed during the previous Awami League administration. The current government has dismantled these syndicates, paving the way to resume sending workers in phases.

Incidents Involving Bangladeshis in Kolkata: Regarding reports of Bangladeshi nationals being denied hotel accommodations in Kolkata and sleeping on the streets, the state minister assured that necessary action would be taken if specific instances are formally brought to the ministry's attention.

The meeting with EMJA leaders was arranged following an incident the previous day where journalists faced harassment while covering an event attended by the state minister. Central BNP Assistant Organizing Secretary and Sylhet WASA Chairman Miftah Siddiqui, alongside Sylhet District BNP General Secretary and Sylhet-6 MP Emran Ahmed Chowdhury, were also present at the event.