Dhaka firms on geopolitical position hosting IOC: Momen
Foreign minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today said Bangladesh's position as a stakeholder in the international arena has been made firmer under the changing geopolitical and geo-economic situation by hosting the Indian Ocean Conference (IOC).
"Bangladesh's partnership with countries in the Indian Ocean region and beyond has been strengthened within the context of regional politics by hosting the Indian Ocean Conference IOC 2023," he told virtually at a press briefing after the conclusion of the IOC at a city hotel.
During the closing session of the 6th Indian Ocean Conference, foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen said Bangladesh envisions the Indian Ocean that is free, open, peaceful, secure and inclusive, promoting shared prosperity for all.
"We remain committed to working with all our regional partners towards this end," he said.
Bangladesh considers the stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean as an essential component in achieving her 'Vision 2041' of establishing a modern and knowledge-based developed country by 2041, he said.
The foreign secretary said Bangladesh believes the Indian Ocean can significantly contribute to the global GDP, international trade, towards climate action, and growing technological advancements for ensuring global peace and prosperity.
He said Bangladesh stands ready to extend cooperation in the region towards a result-oriented focus that will augment achievement for the common good of the region.
The secretary said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday suggested six priority areas where the Indian Ocean Region should focus on - maritime diplomacy; combating climate change and natural disasters; strengthening partnerships; strengthening mechanisms for maritime safety and security; promoting a culture of peace; and promoting equitable and sustainable development.
"In line with these, we may build on our cooperation and collaboration among the Indian Ocean countries to ensure a better future for us," he said.
The foreign secretary said the world's centre of political and economic gravity is moving eastwards to Asia and Africa.
The importance of the Indian Ocean Region needs no reiteration, especially for many countries whose existence, prosperity and security were, and will always be, intimately linked to it, he said.
Bangladesh puts great emphasis on enhancing physical, institutional, energy, digital and human connectivity, facilitating movement of goods, services, capital, and people in a systematic manner, and promoting technology transfer and access to innovations in the region, he said.