Foreign Minister calls for stronger cooperation to tackle energy crisis

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has called for deeper regional cooperation among Indian Ocean countries to confront the escalating global energy crisis, economic instability, and growing pressure on multilateral governance systems.

Speaking at the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius, the Foreign Minister said that shifting global energy dynamics and disruptions in supply chains are placing vulnerable populations at heightened risk, making collective regional action more urgent than ever.

He emphasised that the current global environment demands renewed commitment to multilateralism, warning that existing governance frameworks are under strain and require reassessment to remain effective.

Khalilur proposed the development of a “Shared Cooperative Vision” for the Indian Ocean region, calling on regional stakeholders and institutions, including the India Foundation, to take the lead in building a more coordinated and inclusive framework for cooperation.

“The Indian Ocean should not be a source of division but a space for unity, sustainable development, and shared prosperity,” he said, underscoring the need for practical cooperation beyond political dialogue.

Reaffirming Bangladesh’s regional diplomacy priorities, he highlighted continued support for strengthening SAARC and noted Bangladesh’s current role as chair of BIMSTEC, stressing initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and economic resilience across member states.

The Foreign Minister also emphasised the importance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly women-led businesses, as key drivers of inclusive economic growth in the region.

He further called for greater investment in youth skills development, particularly in technology and artificial intelligence, to harness emerging opportunities.

Highlighting structural challenges in the Bay of Bengal region, Khalilur pointed to underdeveloped marine resources, dependence on traditional fishing practices, and increasing climate-related risks such as cyclones linked to climate change.

He urged participating countries to move beyond declarations and focus on actionable initiatives capable of delivering tangible economic and social outcomes for the region’s population.

JPI/MHK