Facing a room full of local and foreign correspondents, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman made it clear that a future BNP-led government would judge its global partnerships by one standard alone: what serves Bangladesh best.
“The interests of the people come first; we will formulate foreign policy with their concerns in mind,” he said during a wide-ranging question-and-answer session following the party’s election victory.
Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury echoed that position, saying Bangladesh’s foreign relations would be built on mutual respect, equality and trust, not loyalty to any “single nation.”
On reconciliation and the rule of law
A foreign journalist asked how a BNP government would approach reconciliation with citizens who continue to support the Awami League.
Tarique’s response was concise: reconciliation would come “by ensuring rule of law.”
He emphasised that equal application of the law would be key to restoring public confidence and political stability.
China ties and Belt and Road
On Bangladesh’s relationship with China, Tarique described Beijing as a development partner and expressed hope for continued cooperation.
“Like many others, China is also a development friend of Bangladesh. We hope that in future both countries will be in a position to work together,” he said.
Regarding China’s Belt and Road Initiative, he stressed that any decision would hinge on economic benefit. If it helps Bangladesh and strengthens its economy, the government will consider it. If not, it will not move forward, he said.
Judiciary and international issues
Asked whether any verdict or decision of the International Crimes Tribunal could be revisited, Amir Khasru said the issue rests with the judiciary. He added that institutions such as the International Crimes Tribunal must remain separate from the executive and legislative branches, underlining the BNP’s stated commitment to institutional independence.
SAARC issue
On SAARC, the BNP chief said, “SAARC was initiated initially by Bangladesh. So naturally, we would want to revive SAARC. We will discuss with our friends. Once we settle the government, we'll try to revive it.”