BD pledges democracy,  at Dakar forum

Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, global peace and inclusive development at the Dakar International Forum on Peace and Security in Africa.

Speaking at a high-level panel moderated by Senegalese Foreign Minister Cheikh Niang, the state minister said Bangladesh, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is advancing on a new democratic trajectory aimed at building an equitable and prosperous state, according to a Foreign Ministry release on Tuesday.

She thanked Senegal for being the first African country to recognise Bangladesh as an independent state and stressed the need to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Recalling the visit of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman to Senegal in March 1981, she said it elevated relations to new heights.
The state minister reaffirmed the BNP-led government's commitment to strengthening economic, digital, humanitarian and social protection programmes to improve people's living standards and ensure overall welfare. She also highlighted the role of youth in driving positive societal change.

Referring to Bangladesh's contributions to UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts, she called for collective international action to advance global peace and the "Women, Peace and Security" agenda.

She paid tribute to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her role in expanding women's education and emphasised women's participation in ensuring sustainable peace and stability.