Bangladesh reaffirms neutral stance as Pak–Afghan clashes intensify
Diplomatic Correspondent :
Bangladesh has reiterated that it will not take a public position on the escalating conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan, describing the situation as deeply regrettable and harmful to regional stability.
Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman made the remarks while speaking to reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport late on Friday after returning from Jeddah, where he attended a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
His comments come as fighting between Pakistani and Afghan forces continues without respite. Both sides have carried out cross-border strikes in recent days.
Taliban government officials in Afghanistan’s Khost province confirmed to the BBC that further attacks had been launched from Pakistani territory.
In response to the growing tensions, Iran, Russia and China have reportedly offered to mediate between the two neighbours in an effort to de-escalate the crisis.
The United States has signalled that it will not step into the conflict. Speaking to reporters, President Donald Trump said Washington would not involve itself in the fighting.
“I could intervene if I wanted to,” Trump said when asked whether the United States would step in. “But I have a very good relationship with Pakistan.”
He added that Pakistan has “a fantastic Prime Minister and a very good general”, and that he holds both men in high regard.
While indicating that the option of involvement remains open, the US President suggested that direct American intervention was not under consideration at this stage.
Dhaka, meanwhile, has emphasised dialogue as the only sustainable solution. Rahman reiterated that Bangladesh’s foreign policy remains guided by the principle of friendship towards all and malice towards none.
During his visit to Jeddah, the foreign minister also discussed Bangladesh’s candidacy for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
He noted that, after four decades, Bangladesh is once again contesting the post and has held productive talks with OIC member states.
Separate bilateral meetings were held with representatives from Maldives, Turkey, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, several of whom expressed support for Bangladesh’s bid.
Foreign representatives also conveyed congratulations to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his recent electoral victory and expressed hope that his leadership would ensure political stability and sustained economic growth.
Reaffirming Dhaka’s longstanding stance on Palestine, the minister said Bangladesh supports the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
He noted that the policy has remained unchanged since the tenure of former president Ziaur Rahman.
Rahman added that Bangladesh had played a strong role at the OIC meeting in advocating for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and in strengthening bilateral relations with partner countries.
He also confirmed that the destination of the Prime Minister’s first official foreign visit has yet to be finalised, though invitations have been received from several friendly nations.
