Diplomatic Desk:
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has called on members of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) to play an effective role in expanding investment, trade, technology and international cooperation. He said that members of the consular corps are not limited to performing only formal duties; rather, they can play an important role in positively portraying Bangladesh to the world and opening the door to new economic possibilities. He said this while speaking as the chief guest at a reception held in his honor on Monday (July 27, 2026) night, organized by the Executive Committee of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB).
The event was attended by distinguished personalities from the state and diplomatic circles, as well as ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions, honorary consuls of various countries, representatives of international organizations, senior government officials, business leaders and development partners. State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahmed Sohel Manzoor, State Minister for Planning Zonayed 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.
The State Minister for Foreign Affairs outlined five important expectations for the members of the consular corps, saying that they should showcase investment and trade opportunities in Bangladesh to the world, build partnerships in technology, education, innovation and skilled manpower development, help expand Bangladesh’s engagement with emerging regions, especially Africa, further strengthen people-to-people relations and present a truly positive image of Bangladesh to the world. He said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will always work constructively with the consular corps, provide necessary guidance and coordination, and cooperate to ensure the success of every sincere initiative related to the interests of Bangladesh.
Shama Obaed said that the role of honorary consuls is never just formal. They have been playing an important role in expanding trade, investment, education, culture, and humanitarian cooperation in different countries of the world. Their contribution can also bring real change for a developing country like Bangladesh. He said that the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is conducting international relations with utmost importance, keeping in mind the “Bangladesh First” policy, national interest, sovereignty, security, and welfare of the people. Bangladesh seeks more foreign investment, new export markets, advanced technology, partnerships in the education and health sectors, expansion of tourism, and practical cooperation in climate resilience. To achieve these goals, honorary consuls can play an important role in identifying potential areas, connecting suitable partners, and building long-term partnerships.
He said, Bangladesh is not just a large consumer market; it has a young and hardworking workforce, energetic entrepreneurs, an expanding manufacturing base and a strategic location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia. As a result, Bangladesh is an attractive destination for investment, manufacturing, logistics and regional connectivity. He said, while Bangladesh welcomes investment, technology and skills, opportunities must be created for Bangladeshi businessmen, professionals and innovators to contribute to the global market. Such partnerships must be mutually beneficial.
In her welcome speech at the event, Nasrin Fatema Awal, President of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) and Honorary Consul General of Mongolia, said that it is a great honor and pride for her to be present as the President of the Consular Corps. She said, although representing different countries, cultures and traditions, everyone has the same goal – to build lasting bridges between Bangladesh and the world. Over time, CCB has evolved from a simple forum into an important pillar of international relations with Bangladesh and has been providing necessary guidance to its members in the complex realities of modern diplomacy.
Praising State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Nasreen Fatema Awal said that she has known Shama Obaed since she was a teenager and was immediately introduced to her leadership qualities and strong personality. She is proud to see her as the State Minister for Foreign Affairs today and expressed hope that she will make more important contributions to Bangladesh and the world in the future.
She said that the importance of economic diplomacy in the current world is greater than ever before. Bangladesh’s economic progress and trade expansion have created new possibilities. Therefore, the responsibility of the members of the consular corps will be to increase trade partnerships, attract foreign investment, and further strengthen cooperation in the technology and industrial sectors. At the same time, she said that the foundation of sustainable diplomacy is cultural and bilateral relations. The more respect and understanding for mutual culture and tradition increases, the stronger the foundation of trust and long-term cooperation will be.
Nasreen Fatema Awal said that the preliminary approval has been received from the Ministry of Commerce for amending the constitution of the Consular Corps. After the final approval, there will be an opportunity to give membership to career diplomats and former honorary consuls in the organization, which will further enrich the organization’s skills and experience. She also said that although there were plans to hold cultural events at the event, it has been postponed out of solidarity and respect for the flood-affected people of the country. She expressed her prayers and best wishes for the flood-affected families and expressed her hope that they will return to normal life soon.
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) also spoke at the event. Organizers said the reception created an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and networking among the diplomatic community, government, honorary consuls, business and development partners, and further strengthened the role of the consular corps as a bridge between Bangladesh and the international community.
