Dhaka maintains balanced relations with US, China: Touhid

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Tuesday reaffirmed that Bangladesh continues to pursue a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy, maintaining close ties with both the United States and China while safeguarding its national interests.

"There is nothing for anyone to worry about," Hossain told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when asked about concerns expressed by the US regarding Bangladesh's growing engagement with China.

"We have deep relations with the United States and extensive economic relations with China. I don't think there is any reason for concern, since we have maintained a balance," he said.

The adviser emphasised that Bangladesh's foreign policy remains rooted in mutual respect and constructive cooperation, adding that the government sees no reason to avoid engagement with any particular country.

The adviser expressed confidence that future governments will continue to uphold this policy of balance.

"I think Bangladesh receives considerable attention internationally compared to its size and strength," he said, adding, "Those who are bigger and stronger than us naturally have greater visibility. But considering our position, our presence is not small - we are maintaining visibility everywhere."

He reiterated that Bangladesh's foreign policy will continue to be guided by pragmatism, economic diplomacy, and peaceful coexistence.

Touhid's remarks came amid recent discussions in Washington, where Brent Christensen, nominee for US Ambassador to Bangladesh, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that if confirmed, he would work closely with Dhaka to strengthen bilateral ties while highlighting "the risks from Chinese activity" in the region.

Christensen said the United States "supports Bangladesh in its journey toward a bright and democratic future," adding that he looks forward to leading the Embassy Dhaka team to build strong relations with both the current interim government and its democratically elected successor.

Commenting on Bangladesh's growing international profile, Touhid said the country's presence in the global arena has expanded significantly in proportion to its economic and political progress.

Govt to welcome genuine foreign election observers

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said the government will welcome genuine international observers in the upcoming national election, while cautioning against any attempts to misuse observation missions to malign Bangladesh’s image.

“We will definitely encourage those who want to come as observers. But we do not want anyone to come intentionally to tarnish our reputation in the name of observation,” he told reporters when asked about election preparation.

The Adviser reaffirmed the interim government’s strong commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent national election, expected to be held in early February next year.

He noted that several international organisations—including the US-based International Republican Institute (IRI), the European Union (EU), and the Commonwealth—have already sent pre-election assessment missions to Bangladesh.

“We think it’s a good sign,” Touhid said, adding that as the election nears, more delegations are expected to visit the country to observe the electoral process.

“We want election observation to take place so that the transparency, freedom, and fairness of the election are clearly demonstrated before everyone,” he added.

Hossain emphasised that international observation missions can play an important role in enhancing credibility and confidence in the electoral process, provided their work remains objective and respectful of national sovereignty.

The adviser reiterated that Bangladesh values its engagement with international partners and welcomes constructive cooperation that contributes to the country’s democratic and institutional development.

Responding to another question, Touhid Hossain said Bangladesh had sought the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India through appropriate legal channels and based on a court order, but has yet to receive a reply from the Indian side.

“We have followed the legal procedures and requested her return as per the court’s order. Let them examine it from their end. They are yet to reply,” he said.

Bangladesh sent a diplomatic note to India in December last year, along with supporting documents, formally requesting the extradition of Hasina.