Foreign Minister Calls for SAARC Revival, Regional Peace

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman -File photo

Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman has called for the revival of SAARC and stronger regional cooperation, saying Bangladesh remains committed to promoting peace, stability and integration amid shifting global and regional challenges.

Speaking to TRT World on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye, he said Bangladesh’s recent democratic transition has laid the groundwork for stable governance and a forward-looking foreign policy.

He described the transition as “historic,” highlighting a peaceful election, strong public mandate, and an active democratic system supported by parliament, civil society and a free press.

Pointing to South Asia’s low level of economic integration, Rahman said intra-regional trade remains around five percent despite the region accounting for nearly a quarter of the world’s population.

He recalled the early role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in initiating regional cooperation and said reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation remains a key priority of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

“Through dialogue and diplomacy, we can remove barriers and realise the region’s full potential,” he said.

On global peace efforts, the minister said Bangladesh’s approach begins with domestic stability, followed by regional cooperation and active engagement in resolving long-standing issues, including the Rohingya crisis. He added that Dhaka is in contact with relevant stakeholders to pursue a peaceful solution.

Rahman also highlighted Bangladesh’s long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping missions, noting that Bangladeshi personnel often support community rebuilding alongside their formal duties, including infrastructure and education projects.

Referring to relations with Türkiye, he described the partnership as “exceptional and special,” expressing optimism about expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defence and education.

He also underscored the importance of the Bangladeshi diaspora, calling them a vital force in national development through remittances, skills and global engagement, and said the government remains committed to strengthening their role in national progress.