FROM PAGE 3

cannot be politicised, regardless of the political party in power.

She said Bangladesh is currently facing a crisis regarding its international image, with visa-related complications emerging as a major issue. She said the next government must prioritize these issues.

Former ambassador Kamrul Ahsan said Bangladesh needs to build a strong military for deterrence and a strong foreign policy.

He said mere anti-Indian rhetoric will not benefit Bangladesh. “While Dhaka should strongly lobby for its interests, it should also address Delhi’s concerns.”

He suggested coordination among foreign affairs and commerce ministries, and the Economic Relations Division, as well as collaboration between foreign ministry and NSI and DGFI for a coherent policy.

Janata Party Bangladesh Executive Chairman Golam Sarwar Milon stressed formulating a national foreign policy document to ensure continuity regardless of the political party in power.

CGS Executive Director Parvez Karim Abbasi said water diplomacy and transboundary river issues are critical for Bangladesh, yet they are not being given the necessary attention in foreign policy. He suggested that the next government adopt a well-defined stance on these matters.

DU IR Prof Niloy Ranjan Biswas said there are instances in which domestic political division led foreign countries to influence domestic policies, a trend that must end.