Al Mamun Harun Ur Rashid
Diplomatic Reporter, The New Nation :
The year 2024 marked significant shifts in Bangladesh’s foreign policy, characterised by high-profile visits, evolving diplomatic ties, and major changes in governance following the collapse of the Awami League government.
The Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, formed the government for the fourth consecutive time through a controversial election boycotted by major political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Efforts by the US to ensure a free and fair election failed, leading to increased tensions.
Sheikh Hasina’s government faced criticism for perceived autocratic tendencies but was ousted following a popular uprising in July-August. Hasina fled to India, leaving behind her party. On 8 August, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership as head of the interim government.
The regime change triggered tensions with India. Indian media, allegedly influenced by the Modi administration, launched a disinformation campaign about attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. The Yunus-led government refuted these claims and invited Indian media to assess the ground reality.
The arrest of ISKON leader Chinmoy Das for desecrating the Bangladeshi flag further strained relations, leading to attacks on Bangladeshi missions in Kolkata and Agartala. In a rare move, Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to lodge a strong protest.
Despite efforts by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to stabilise relations, tensions remain, particularly over Bangladesh’s formal request for Hasina’s extradition to face criminal charges.
Relations with Pakistan began to improve after years of tension under the Awami League, which maintained a heavily India-centric foreign policy. However, Chief Adviser Yunus emphasised the need for Pakistan to address unresolved historical issues to strengthen ties.
Bangladesh welcomed several notable visitors, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in August and East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta in December, strengthening bilateral relations.
On the international stage, Chief Adviser Yunus attended key forums, including the United Nations General Assembly in September, where he met US President Joe Biden, marking a thaw in relations strained during Hasina’s tenure. He also participated in the UN Climate Change Conference in Azerbaijan and the D-8 Summit in Egypt, engaging with global leaders to bolster Bangladesh’s international standing.
Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain also represented Bangladesh in various global forums, aiming to expand diplomatic and economic ties.
Yunus successfully negotiated the release of 75 Bangladeshi expatriates jailed in the UAE for participating in demonstrations supporting the July-August uprising. In December, he met ambassadors from 27 EU countries to discuss economic cooperation and partnerships.
A public statement of support for Yunus, signed by 198 global leaders, including 92 Nobel laureates and notable figures like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and former US President Barack Obama, further enhanced Bangladesh’s international image.
Bangladesh’s foreign policy in 2024 centred on balancing relationships with India, China, and the US. Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain emphasised the importance of maintaining strong ties with all three nations, acknowledging the challenges and complexities involved.
With active participation in international forums, high-level diplomatic engagements, and a focus on economic collaboration, Bangladesh solidified its position on the global stage in 2024. These efforts have set the groundwork for continued diplomatic engagement and growth in 2025.
