Bangladesh Defence Adviser Shines at 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum

Bangladesh's voice was heard loud and clear on the world stage last September, as Defence Adviser to the Prime Minister Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam delivered a widely acclaimed presentation at the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, one of the world's premier platforms for dialogue on peace, security and international cooperation. 

Held from 15 to 17 September in Beijing, the forum brought together delegates from 100 countries, including top military leaders, diplomats and representatives of international organisations. Amid a rapidly changing global landscape, it was Bangladesh, a nation long respected for its peacekeeping contributions and principled diplomacy, that helped shape the conversation. On 17 September, the Defence Adviser addressed the plenary session titled ‘The Role and Vision of Developing Countries,’ a paper that drew widespread attention and was warmly applauded by delegates.

He opened by observing that the global security environment was changing rapidly amid armed conflicts, geopolitical rivalry, technological change, economic uncertainty and climate-related pressures. In such a landscape, he argued, it was essential to ensure the security and prosperity of developing countries, as well as their effective participation in international decision-making. He stressed the importance of dialogue and the peaceful settlement of disputes, the need to build national resilience, and the value of South-South cooperation as a driver of shared progress. "It is essential to ensure the security and prosperity of developing countries, as well as their effective participation in international decision-making," he added.

Turning to Bangladesh's foreign policy, the Defence Adviser said that sovereignty, national interest, national security and the welfare of the people were being prioritised under the ‘Bangladesh First’ policy. At the same time, he reaffirmed Bangladesh's enduring commitment to the principle of ‘friendship to all, malice towards none.’

He also outlined three priorities proposed by Bangladesh for the future international order: strengthening preventive diplomacy and regional crisis management, and building mechanisms to address tensions before they escalate into conflict. Through cyber cooperation, the responsible use of emerging technologies, climate adaptation and disaster preparedness. Strengthening accountable institutions, investing in livelihoods, education, infrastructure, and local trust in vulnerable areas, so that stability is rooted in the everyday well-being of the people.

On relations with China, he noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to China had boosted bilateral ties, and he expressed appreciation for China's support to Bangladesh's defence and development sectors. He further highlighted the comprehensive cooperative partnership between the two countries, spanning infrastructure, connectivity, energy, trade, technology and education. He underscored that Bangladesh's growing role as a constructive voice in international security discourse, a nation whose commitment to peacekeeping, dialogue and multilateral engagement continues to earn recognition on the global stage. The warm reception his paper received reflected both the substance of his arguments and the respect Bangladesh commands within the international community.

The timing of this year's forum could not have been more consequential. With armed conflicts proliferating and security challenges growing more complex by the day, international issues are facing severe tests. In this context, the Xiangshan Forum offered a rare and valuable space for nations to engage with one another, exchange views and opinions and share thoughts on the issues most affecting international security and relations.

Over three days of rigorous discussion, delegates grappled with the realities of a rapidly changing international landscape. The forum's agenda reflected the breadth of today's challenges, spanning: examining how shifting power dynamics are reshaping the global system. Addressing ongoing crises and their implications for wider stability. For Asia-Pacific security, focusing on one of the world's most strategically significant regions. Exploring ways and means to strengthen collective responses to shared threats. Global security responsibilities considering how major powers can take the initiative and assume greater responsibility for international peace and stability.

This year's gathering carried special significance, as it marked the 20th anniversary of the Xiangshan Forum. Two decades on, the forum has grown into a truly global meeting point, a testament to its enduring value as a venue where differing perspectives can be aired honestly and constructively. Participants praised the event as well organised, well designed, and highly professional, qualities that allowed substantive debate to flourish rather than being overshadowed by procedural concerns. 

A Proud Moment for Bangladesh. In an era defined by uncertainty, the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum demonstrated the enduring importance of dialogue. And at its heart stood Bangladesh, a nation whose Defence Adviser reminded the world that lasting security cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires sustained engagement, mutual understanding and a shared commitment to cooperation.

Defence Adviser’s call for the security and prosperity of developing countries to be placed at the centre of the international agenda, and for their voices to be heard in the decisions that shape their future, captured precisely why platforms like the Xiangshan Forum matter. For Bangladesh, it was more than a presentation. It was a proud moment on the world stage, and a clear signal that this nation's voice will continue to be heard.

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