Shawdesh Desk:

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has urged the officers of the Bangladesh missions abroad to brand Bangladesh positively and help the government achieve two goals on economic diplomacy and public diplomacy fronts.

“You’re going abroad as Bangladesh representatives. You’re the face of Bangladesh abroad. Seeing you, people abroad will decide whether Bangladesh is a ‘bottomless basket’ or a land of opportunities. People abroad will make a judgment seeing your behaviour, work and services,” he said.

The Foreign Minister made the remarks while addressing a certificate awarding ceremony for the officers-designated to Labour and Economic wings at Bangladesh Mission abroad.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam spoke as special guest at the function held at Foreign Service Academy on Tuesday evening. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Secretary, Maritime Affairs Unit (MAU) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Rear Admiral (retd) Md Khurshed Alam were also present.

The Foreign Minister said he thought about two packages – economic diplomacy and public diplomacy — when he was made a minister.

He said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave them a few roadmaps – Vision 2021, 2030 and 2041 – as Bangladesh wants to be a developed and stable nation by 2041.

“It’s a big target. It’s not an easy target. We all need to play a proactive role in achieving the target and building Sonar Bangla,” Dr Momen added.

He said nothing can stop Bangladesh on its journey towards the next level of development if the country can utilize its two assets – manpower and water properly.

Encouraging the officers-designate to Bangladesh missions abroad, the Foreign Minister said he has no doubt about the capacity of the officers who have long been working with the government. “You know the country. You know people. And you’ll truly represent the country.”

Describing the officers as part of the MoFA, he said, “We want you to bring successes. If there’s a will, there’s a way. You can do it. You’re re all talented. If you want, you can get it done.”

Dr Momen asked the officers not to compromise when it comes to quality services and advised them to think how they will have many innovative ways in doing better. “Let’s know if you face any difficulties. We’re willing to help you and support you all the way.”

The Foreign Minister said the officers of the Bangladesh missions abroad must satisfy the service seekers and need to work to brand Bangladesh as a land of opportunities with a vibrant economy.

He advised the officers not to hurt any service seekers but provide services keeping smiles on their faces. “They would be proud of you. They would feel proud of the respective mission.”

Looking back to the very significant year 2021, Dr Momen said they made a big success in the previous year and they must maintain the trend of success stories in the year 2022. “Our journey must not stop here. We can’t be complacent. We’ve got a long way to go.”

The Foreign Minister said their public diplomacy is getting stronger and Bangabandhu Corners already set up in each Mission abroad will provide a stronger platform to promote and brand Bangladesh abroad through public diplomacy and by engaging universities, think tanks and expatriate Bangladeshis.

Highlighting the contributions made by female workers, he said women have an equal right to go abroad. “How can I do (stop women going abroad). We’re taking care of them.”

Dr Momen suggested the officers work in a way so that nobody can say Bangladesh Missions abroad provide poor services. “Keep it in mind that nobody goes to Missions abroad on a pleasure trip rather they go in time of necessity. They would be very, very happy and would appreciate you if you provide quality services.”

Warning the officers about the brokers around Bangladesh Missions abroad, the Foreign Minister said, “If you remain honest, those brokers can in no way harm you and your reputation. If you do a good job honestly with integrity and sincerity, we’ll continuously support you.”