Mohammad Shajibul-Al-Rajib:
A colorful reception ceremony was held in honor of State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam at the initiative of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB). The ceremony, held in the capital on Monday (July 27, 2026) night, was attended by local and foreign diplomats, honorary consuls, government ministers and state ministers, representatives of international organizations, business leaders and development partners. The ceremony emphasized further strengthening diplomatic relations, economic cooperation, trade, investment and cultural exchange between Bangladesh and the international community.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam was present as the chief guest at the reception organized by the Executive Committee of the Consular Corps. State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahmed Sohel Manzoor, State Minister for Planning Jonayed Saki, State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin Putul and State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque Nur were present as special guests. In addition, ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions, honorary consuls of various countries, representatives of international organizations, senior government officials, businessmen and development partners attended the event.
In her welcome speech, President of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) and Honorary Consul General of Mongolia Nasreen Fatema Awal said that unity in diversity is the greatest strength of the Consular Corps. Although they represent different countries, cultures and traditions, everyone has the same goal – to build lasting bonds and effective cooperation between Bangladesh and the world. He said that over time, the Consular Corps has evolved from a general forum to an important partner in Bangladesh’s international relations and is now playing a more active role in expanding economic diplomacy, trade, investment, technology and cultural cooperation.
Nasreen Fatema Awal said that the importance of economic diplomacy has increased manifold in the current world. Bangladesh’s economic progress and increasing participation in global trade have opened the door to new possibilities. By utilizing this opportunity, members of the Consular Corps can play an effective role in attracting foreign investment, expanding trade, transferring technology and increasing industrial cooperation. At the same time, it is possible to further strengthen the foundation of long-term trust and cooperation through cultural exchange and strengthening people-to-people relations.
In his speech as the chief guest, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam said that honorary consuls do not only perform formal duties; they are important partners in showcasing Bangladesh to the world. He called on the members of the Consular Corps to highlight the investment and trade potential in Bangladesh, increase partnerships in the technology and education sectors, expand connectivity with emerging regions, strengthen people-to-people relations and project a positive image of Bangladesh to the world.
He said that the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is prioritizing national interests by keeping in mind the “Bangladesh First” policy and is working to expand international cooperation in foreign investment, new export markets, advanced technology, tourism, education, health and climate resilience. He mentioned that the cooperation of the members of the Consular Corps is very important in achieving these goals.
At the event, Nasreen Fatema Awal informed about the preliminary approval of the Ministry of Commerce for amending the constitution of the Consular Corps. She said that if the final approval is received, there will be an opportunity to give membership to career diplomats and former honorary consuls in the organization, which will further strengthen the activities of the organization.
He also said that although there were plans to hold cultural events at the event, it has been postponed as part of showing respect and solidarity with the flood-affected people of the country. At that time, he expressed his prayers and sympathy for the flood-affected families.
CCB Vice Presidents Shahab Sattar (Cyprus) and Shakhawat Hossain (Portugal), Secretary General Kazi Shah Mujakker Ahmadul Haque Ishmam (Croatia) and Treasurer Masud Jamil Khan (Ireland) spoke at the event. At the end of the event, a cordial exchange of views and networking was held among the guests. According to the organizers, such an event will play an important role in further strengthening cooperation, friendship and economic partnership between Bangladesh and the international diplomatic community.
