Shama urges honorary consuls to promote Bangladesh's investment potential

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has urged honorary consuls to serve as ambassadors for Bangladesh's investment potential and help create new opportunities for trade and business.

She made the call while outlining five expectations from members of the Consular Corps in Bangladesh (CCB) at a reception hosted by its Executive Committee in her honour at a city hotel on Monday night.

"Promote partnerships in technology, education, innovation and skilled employment. Help expand Bangladesh's engagement with emerging regions, particularly Africa, strengthen people-to-people ties, and help the world better understand the real Bangladesh," she said.

Shama said the government values honorary consuls as trusted partners in promoting friendship and international cooperation, stressing that their role extends far beyond ceremonial responsibilities.

"Your role should never be viewed as merely ceremonial. Around the world, honorary consuls have promoted trade, investment, cultural exchange, education and humanitarian cooperation," she said.

"For a developing country like Bangladesh, your contribution can make a real difference," she added.

The state minister said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue to engage constructively with the CCB, provide the necessary guidance and facilitate coordination with relevant ministries and government agencies.

Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's "Bangladesh First" foreign policy, Shama said national interest, sovereignty, security and the welfare of the people remain at the heart of the government's international engagement.

She said Bangladesh seeks greater foreign investment, wider export markets, advanced technology, stronger partnerships in education and healthcare, increased 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.

Highlighting Bangladesh's investment potential, Shama said the country offers much more than a large consumer market, pointing to its young and hardworking workforce, dynamic entrepreneurs, expanding manufacturing base and strategic location linking South and Southeast Asia.

She said these strengths make Bangladesh an attractive destination for investment, manufacturing, 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.

Shama expressed hope that the new CCB board would usher in a new chapter of practical cooperation, stronger partnerships and tangible outcomes.

The reception was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of diplomatic missions, honorary consuls, representatives of international organisations, senior government officials and business leaders.

CCB President and Honorary Consul General of Mongolia Nasreen Fatema Awal reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations, international cooperation, trade, investment, cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity.

CCB Vice Presidents Shahab Sattar and Shakhawat Hossain, Secretary General Kazi Shah Muzakker Ahmadul Hoque Ishmam and Treasurer Masud Jamil Khan also spoke.