‘Foreign policy under BNP will be pragmatic’: Dr Ziauddin Hyder

Interview/ Dr Ziauddin Hyder, adviser to Tarique Rahman, prime minister of Bangladesh

BANGLADESH’S NEW POLITICAL chapter, following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s sweeping electoral victory, is framed by promises of structural reform, institutional rebuilding and a recalibrated foreign policy. The party has committed to constitutional changes that rebalance executive power, strengthen judicial independence and safeguard electoral integrity. It pledges youth-centred governance, administrative accountability and economic modernisation, while seeking pragmatic, balanced relations with India, China and Pakistan under a “Bangladesh First” principle. In an exclusive interview, Dr Ziauddin Hyder says the focus now is on delivering measurable reforms and restoring public trust. Excerpts:

Q/ Rebuilding institutions after years of unrest is a significant challenge. How will the BNP restore confidence?

It is an uphill task. Over the years, institutional integrity weakened and public trust in law enforcement, the judiciary, media independence and administrative systems suffered. Rebuilding confidence will require time, patience, transparency and sustained public engagement. The BNP enters this phase with strong popular support, which provides an opportunity to rebuild institutions in partnership with citizens. Communication will be central to this effort. Parliamentarians must serve as ambassadors of reform within their constituencies, explaining changes, listening to concerns and ensuring accountability. Reform cannot succeed unless people understand and trust the process.

Q/ How do you see relations with the opposition parties like the Jamaat-e-Islami and the NCP evolving?

We remain optimistic. The BNP is a pro-democratic party and believes in constructive engagement. The opposition has a responsibility to act rationally and contribute to national development. One may support the BNP or oppose it politically, but Bangladesh must remain the highest priority. A functioning democracy depends on healthy debate, accountability and the ability of political actors to rise above partisan interests in moments of national importance.

Q/ How did the youth, who were highly visible in the 2024 student-led protests, shape this election?

For many young voters, this was the first election in years in which they felt their vote truly mattered. Their participation was notable and reflected a desire for meaningful change. The BNP has consistently emphasised a youth-centric development model, recognising that nearly 45 per cent of the population represents a demographic dividend. The election campaign had a specific focus on youth. For example, Tarique Rahman led a youth policy dialogue through a series of innovative town hall-style engagements titled “The Plan”. A nationwide reels competition and another creative initiative, “Letters to Tarique Rahman”, were also launched, providing young people with opportunities to share their ideas and opinions on the eight policy areas spearheaded by the BNP.

Young people must be integrated into governance as active partners. This includes reforming education to meet modern demands, strengthening environmental protection, modernising economic structures, reinforcing institutional frameworks and nurturing value-based social development. Youth are not merely beneficiaries of policy decisions; they are stakeholders in shaping the country’s trajectory.

Q/ Did the traditional Awami League voters shift towards the BNP?

Survey data indicated that over 60 per cent of voters supported the BNP. Many individuals who may not traditionally align with the party appear to have prioritised national interest over partisan identity. When voters perceive that their preferred political force is not effectively contesting or offering a viable path forward, they often cast their votes based on broader considerations of stability and reform. That shift reflects a wider aspiration for national unity and progress.

Q/ How do you see relations with India evolving?

India is Bangladesh’s largest neighbour, and the two countries share deep historical, cultural, economic and educational ties. At the same time, certain unresolved issues remain, including border management and water-sharing agreements such as the Teesta. Our guiding principle is “Bangladesh First”. We seek balanced, forward-looking bilateral partnerships not only with India but with all neighbouring countries. Regional platforms such as SAARC must be revitalised to enhance cooperation. We support stronger regional connectivity and believe that constructive engagement can help address longstanding concerns. At the same time, we are committed to strengthening domestic water management projects to ensure agricultural sustainability and ecological balance.

Q/ What about relations with China and Pakistan?

Pre-election meetings with foreign diplomats, including representatives from neighbouring countries, were largely introductory in nature. As the government becomes fully operational and domestic priorities are consolidated, structured bilateral engagements will follow. Foreign policy under the BNP will be pragmatic, balanced and guided by national interest rather than ideological alignment.

Q/ Will there be continuity in Khaleda Zia’s legacy under Tarique Rahman’s leadership?

There will certainly be continuity in terms of core principles. Khaleda Zia’s legacy is rooted in a commitment to democracy, national sovereignty and institutional reform. Many of the reform initiatives currently being implemented, including Vision 2030 and the 31-point framework, originated under her leadership. Tarique Rahman carries forward those foundational values while also representing a generational shift. His leadership reflects both continuity and evolution, retaining the party’s nationalist and democratic commitments while emphasising modernisation, structural reform and implementation.

This moment is not about symbolism or rhetoric. Citizens are looking for measurable progress and tangible results. Under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the focus will be on delivering reforms that strengthen institutions and move Bangladesh towards a stable and prosperous future.