Act as strong envoys for investment, help create new opportunities for Bangladesh: Shama Obaed tells Consular Corps

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has shared five expectations from the members of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) and urged them to become strong ambassadors for investment and help create new opportunities for trade and business.

"Promote partnership in technology, education, innovation, and skilled employment. Help expand Bangladesh's engagement with emerging regions, particularly Africa, and strengthen people-to-people connections, and help the world better understand the real Bangladesh," she said while speaking at a reception last night (27 July).

Hosted by the Executive Committee of the CCB in honour of the state minister for Foreign Affairs, the reception brought together an eminent gathering of ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, honorary consuls, representatives of international organizations, senior government officials, business leaders, and other guests, underscoring the strong and enduring partnership between Bangladesh and the international diplomatic community.

State Minister for Ministry of Housing and Public Works Ahammad Sohel Monzoor, State Minister for the Ministry of Planning Zonayed Saki, State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin Putul and State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment and Nurul Haque Nur.

Honorary Consul General of Mongolia and President of the CCB Nasreen Fatema Awal, CCB Vice Presidents Shahab Sattar (Cyprus) and Shakhawat Hossain (Portugal); Secretary General Kazi Shah Muzakker Ahmadul Hoque Ishmam (Croatia); and Treasurer Masud Jamil Khan (Ireland), among others, spoke.

State Minister Shama Obaed said the Government of Bangladesh values Honorary Consuls as trusted partners in promoting friendship and international cooperation.

She said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will always remain ready to engage constructively with the Consular Corps in Bangladesh, provide guidance where appropriate, and facilitate coordination with the relevant ministries and agencies.

"We want every sincere initiative that advances Bangladesh's interest to succeed. As the new board begins its journey, I hope it will mark not merely the start of a new term, but the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by practical cooperation, stronger partnerships, and meaningful results," Shama Obaed said.

"Your role should never be viewed as merely ceremonial. Around the world, honorary consuls have promoted trade, investment, cultural exchanges, education, and humanitarian cooperation," she said, adding, "For a developing country like Bangladesh, your contribution can make a real difference."

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the state minister said they have a responsibility to serve every citizen and build a confident, prosperous, and respected Bangladesh.

She said the Prime Minister's vision of "Bangladesh First" places the national interest, sovereignty, security, and the welfare of the people at the heart of every international engagement.

Shama Obaed said Bangladesh seeks greater investment, wider export markets, advanced technology, stronger educational and healthcare partnerships, more tourism, and practical cooperation on climate resilience.

"I firmly believe that our Honorary Consuls can play an important role in advancing these objectives. You can identify opportunities early, connect the right partners, and help transform ideas into lasting partnerships," she said.

Shama Obaed said Bangladesh offers far more than a large consumer market. "We have a young and hardworking workforce, dynamic entrepreneurs, an expanding manufacturing base, and a strategic location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia."

She described Bangladesh as an attractive destination for investment, production, logistics, and regional connectivity.

"Our partnership must be mutually beneficial. We welcome investment, technology, and expertise into Bangladesh while also encouraging Bangladeshi businesses, professionals, and innovators to contribute to global markets," she said.

Recognising Outstanding Contributions

A special segment of the evening was dedicated to recognising the outstanding contributions of two eminent personalities to Bangladesh's consular community.

The CCB paid tribute to late Datuk AKM. Shahidul Islam, former Honorary Consul of Malaysia in Chattogram, in recognition of his dedicated service and significant contributions to strengthening the longstanding friendship and bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Malaysia.

The CCB also honoured Salahuddin Kasem Khan, former Honorary Consul General of Türkiye in Bangladesh and Founding President of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh, for his visionary leadership and pioneering role in establishing the organization.

His enduring contributions to strengthening the honorary consular community and promoting international cooperation were acknowledged with deep respect and appreciation.

In her welcome address, CCB President Nasreen Fatema Awal expressed her sincere appreciation to the guests for their presence and reaffirmed the CCB's commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations, promoting international cooperation, and fostering greater engagement between Bangladesh and the global community.

She also highlighted the invaluable contributions of honorary consuls in enhancing bilateral relations and facilitating trade, investment, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connectivity.

The reception provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and networking among members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives, honorary consuls, and development partners, further reinforcing the Consular Corps in Bangladesh's role as a bridge between Bangladesh and the international community.