Tarique pledges to prioritise 'sovereignty, citizens’ welfare' while fostering global partnerships

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has promised to conduct foreign policy prioritising the “interests of the country and its people” if his party wins the parliamentary elections and forms a government after two decades.

He emphasised that Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty will remain intact while cultivating friendly relations with other nations.

The party unveiled its election manifesto at 3:30pm on Friday in the ballroom of Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka.

The manifesto is structured around nine priority areas under the theme of building a “humane, inclusive and accountable state”.

Summarising the party’s foreign policy stance, Tarique said: “By protecting our country’s interests and our people’s welfare, we will seek friendship and cooperation that allow us to establish new businesses, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the nation’s economy.

“At the same time, Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty will remain intact. This will be the foundation of our foreign policy.”

He added, “We will solve the problems of our people and, while preserving our independence and sovereignty, cultivate friendships with countries where possible.”

On the Rohingya issue, he said: “We face a massive humanitarian and administrative challenge. Bangladesh’s population is nearly 200 million, and we must provide employment, food, and healthcare.

“About 1.2 million [Rohingya refugees] are here; they are human beings, and we must support them. At the same time, we want a safe environment in their areas so that they can gradually return. We aim to ensure their safe repatriation.”

On water-sharing disputes with India, Tarique said: “We face challenges over rivers such as the Padma and Teesta. We want to sit and resolve these issues so our people receive their fair share of water.”

He also pledged better support for nearly 1.5 million overseas Bangladeshis, modernising and energising embassies to ensure proper treatment.