Dhaka sees no risk in 'Mecca Pact', finds it a unique initiative
Humaiun Kobir says participation in one security arrangement would not prevent Bangladesh from contributing to other alliances or initiatives.
Describing the "Mecca Pact" as unique, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir today (30 August) said Bangladesh sees no risk in the pact, adding the country will continue to maintain balanced relations with different international partners.
"What is the point of worrying about dying before you even live? I mean, if we start worrying about risks before even initiating the process, that becomes a problem," he told reporters at the foreign affairs ministry when a journalist drew his attention to the likely advantages and the potential risks associated with the pact.
The state minister said this is a "unique pact" that has been initiated, and these are new opportunities.
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"It does not restrict your scope. Not necessarily. You have to approach," he said.
The state minister said a country like Bangladesh must approach foreign policy and security cooperation in a "very integrated and flexible" manner, aligned with the dynamics of the current international political system.
Based on this, he said, there is no risk involved here. "We will balance our international relations. Bangladesh stands for global peace and stability, and wherever peace and stability are the primary goals, Bangladesh will always be present," Kobir said.
Asked about Bangladesh's position on the pact, he said the country's long experience in UN peacekeeping provides a strong basis for contributing to peace and stability in the Muslim world.
"Therefore, we view it positively. Discussions on these matters have progressed constructively, and let's see how things develop as we engage further. We view this very positively," he said.
Asked whether Bangladesh has discussed the issue with Saudi Arabia and Turkey on the sidelines of an OIC meeting and whether a formal invitation has been extended, Kobir said discussions are ongoing. "Yes, talks took place. Conversations were held, positively, very positively."
When a formal invitation is extended, Kobir said they will certainly inform the media. "We are currently holding discussions on this matter, and those discussions are progressing positively with all bilateral partners," he said.
