Diplomatic Desk:
Mr. Farouk S. Adatia, Lisbon-based Diplomatic Representative and King’s Counsel (KC) of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), paid a courtesy call on the Hon. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday (June 15, 2026).
During the meeting, Mr. Adatia appreciated the revival of the country’s foreign policy after the new administration of the Bangladesh government assumed office. He also extended his heartfelt congratulations on the election of Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman as the President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly and on Bangladesh’s earlier election as the President of the UNESCO General Congress.
He said that AKDN is keen to expand private sector financing in Bangladesh, focusing on the new government’s priorities in the education, health, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. He also emphasized the need to further strengthen the partnership with the Government of Bangladesh based on long-standing friendship and cooperation.
The State Minister for Foreign Affairs appreciated the contribution of the Aga Khan Network in Bangladesh’s development cooperation. He referred to the new government’s forward-looking foreign policy and called for increasing cooperation in the education and health sectors as per the budget priorities. He particularly emphasized girls’ education and women’s empowerment.
He further said that there is a huge opportunity to develop the ‘creative economy’ by harnessing the potential of rural women. In addition, discussions were held on modernizing the education curriculum, strengthening sports and cultural activities, language and skill development activities through the Aga Khan Academy.
Both sides emphasized the need for increased cooperation from the international community on the Rohingya humanitarian issue and exchanged views on the possible involvement of the AKDN.
The meeting also discussed the possibility of His Highness Rahim Aga Khan V, the Head of the Aga Khan Family, visiting Bangladesh at an appropriate time in the future.
Earlier, the AKDN delegation also met with the Foreign Secretary and exchanged views on various issues of mutual interest.
