Developing nations need stronger global role: Defence Adviser

Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam has said developing countries need a stronger role in ensuring their security, prosperity and participation in international decision-making.

He said the global security environment is changing rapidly due to armed conflicts, geopolitical rivalry, technological changes, economic uncertainty and climate pressures.

The adviser made the remarks at the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, China, held from September 15 to 17. He represented Bangladesh at the forum’s fourth plenary session on “The Role and Vision of Developing Countries”.

He said Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, is focusing on democratic values, economic recovery, institutional reform, investment, job creation and human resource development.

On foreign policy, he said Bangladesh gives priority to sovereignty, national interests, security and public welfare while following the principle of “friendship to all, malice towards none”.

He also highlighted Bangladesh-China cooperation in infrastructure, energy, trade, technology, education and human resource development.