Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said the government will not take any step that may harm Bangladesh’s relations with any country, even as reports emerge about a possible deal with China on military drone production.
Replying to a question at the foreign ministry, he said, “We will not do anything that will damage our relations with anyone. We will act with balance.”
He said Bangladesh must strengthen its armed forces, especially the Air Force, as many aircraft are old and no longer usable.
“Our planes are very old. Many are not serviceable. We have to make minimum purchases. Discussions are ongoing on where and how much to buy,” he added.
On alliances, Touhid said Bangladesh has not joined any group in the last one and a half years.
“If joining any group serves our interest, we will do so. Otherwise, there is no question of joining,” he said.
About the election period, the adviser said the government is being cautious so that no “unwanted individuals” enter the country to create trouble.
“We are not stopping visas. Those with valid purposes will get visas,” he said, responding to reports about suspending visa-on-arrival.
He added that during elections, unexpected situations may arise and some people may try to enter the country suddenly.
Meanwhile, Bhutan informed that Bangladesh has suspended the “Visa on Arrival” facility from January 15 to February 15. Bhutan advised its citizens to apply for visas in advance.
Earlier, Touhid said Bangladesh temporarily closed visa sections in three missions in India due to security reasons, adding that the decision was taken in a special situation to protect the country’s missions abroad.
