The current political government will move to implement international agreements signed under the previous interim administration only after ensuring they serve national interest.
Talking to the FE Tuesday, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said agreements - including those involving the United States - would be discussed in parliament before implementation, with additional consultations held if necessary.
"We will ensure the interests of the people and the country before implementing any agreement," she said, declining to comment whether a formal review process would be undertaken. She stressed that national interest would be the determining factor.
The remarks come amid controversy surrounding a number of deals struck under the post-uprising interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. Asked whether the government would formally scrutinise or review those agreements, the minister declined to elaborate, reiterating that "the country's interests" would be ensured.
She confirmed that agreements involving the United States would be placed before parliament prior to implementation. Further discussions with Washington could also be held, if necessary, particularly where economic interests are concerned.
Earlier, when asked by a group of reporters about government measures to ensure the safety of Bangladeshi nationals in Iran, she said, "Around 2,000 citizens are currently in Iran, many of them students. So far, they are safe and in regular contact with our mission."
She added that evacuation plans were in place should conditions deteriorate.
Bangladesh has already repatriated 186 nationals on a chartered flight this month, part of what officials describe as contingency efforts in response to the conflict.
While a mass return is unlikely, the government is working to facilitate the voluntary return of those who wish to leave, she said, reiterating Dhaka's call for diplomatic solutions to regional disputes.
Asked about Indian response to Bangladesh's request for fuel supply, the state minister said India had given the "green signal" for energy collaboration, though she directed detailed queries to the relevant ministry.
The minister also addressed the status of efforts to bring back deposed former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is in India and faces allegations of crimes against humanity. Although a formal request for her extradition was sent during the interim period, the current government has so far limited itself to raising the matter in discussions with Indian officials.
"It is an ongoing process," she said, noting that multiple meetings with India's high commissioner have taken place since the administration took office last month.
On a separate matter, the government is seeking return of the suspects in the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi. Coordination between Bangladesh's home ministry and Indian authorities is underway, with Dhaka expecting consular access as part of the process.
"Ensuring justice in this case is a top priority," she said.
The minister adds that the government would continue efforts to secure international recognition of the 1971 genocide, describing it as central to Bangladesh's historical and national identity.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com
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