‘Diplomats must advance national interests’

Bangladesh must develop a more specialised and professional diplomatic workforce to safeguard and promote its national interests in an increasingly complex global environment, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has said.

She made the remarks while attending the certificate awarding ceremony of the Refreshers’ Course for Directors 2026 as chief guest at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Thursday.

Emphasising the government’s strategic approach under the “Bangladesh First” policy, she says diplomats must be equipped with deeper expertise in priority areas critical to the country’s foreign policy.

She highlights issues including climate change, transboundary water sharing, migration, free trade agreements, peacekeeping and peacebuilding, as well as the Rohingya crisis, as key domains requiring enhanced diplomatic competence.

Speaking at the same event as special guest, Secretary (East and West) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Dr Md Nazrul Islam underscores the importance of the refresher course in strengthening the professional skills of mid-career diplomats.

He says the training programme helps diplomats acquire the knowledge and capabilities needed to respond effectively to evolving global and diplomatic challenges.

Rector of the Foreign Service Academy Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith delivers the welcome address, stressing that modern diplomats must be analytical, adaptable, composed and ethical in their professional conduct.

He reaffirms the Academy’s commitment to developing highly competent diplomats through continuous training and professional development initiatives.

The Foreign Service Academy organises the Refreshers’ Course every year as part of its ongoing capacity-building programme for foreign service officers.

This year, 13 directors of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs successfully complete the course and receive certificates at the ceremony.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Service Academy, and resource persons are also present at the event.