Zaima Rahman set to play key role in sports diplomacy

A new era of "Sports Diplomacy" is set to revitalise the Bangladeshi sporting landscape, with Zaima Rahman, daughter of the Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s international standing.

The State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haque, first broke the news during the inauguration of the "Notun Kuri Sports" mega-project at Sylhet District Stadium on Saturday, signaling a fresh strategic direction for the country.

Emphasising the weight of this new initiative, the State Minister stated, "We are placing immense importance on our sports diplomacy. The Foreign Minister, State Minister, and the Foreign Affairs Advisor are already providing comprehensive support. Furthermore, under the directives of our Honourable Prime Minister, I have just received an instruction that Zaima Rahman, the Prime Minister’s talented daughter, will also be working within our sports diplomacy framework."

While the initial announcement in Sylhet offered a glimpse into the plan, Aminul provided further clarity Sunday morning in the sidelines of the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association media football tournament held at the Bangladesh Football Federation artificial turf. 

"Yesterday, during a discussion with the Prime Minister, he personally directed me regarding the involvement of Zaima Rahman. I noted that if she takes on this responsibility, it will be a massive source of encouragement for us. Through sports diplomacy, it is possible to enhance sincerity and brotherhood with various nations. We are exploring how to increase sporting facilities and address our weaknesses by engaging in diplomatic exchanges with Asian and European countries."

To institutionalise this vision, the government has confirmed a collaborative approach between ministries. 

"Recognising the importance of sports diplomacy, a dedicated 'Sports Wing' has already been established within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs," Aminul added. "The Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are now jointly launching activities under the Prime Minister's guidance to further contribute to Bangladesh's sporting arena."

On Saturday, the very day her new journey in the sporting arena was announced, Zaima was found immersing herself in the thrill of the game.

That morning, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, were in Sylhet to attend four different programmes.

Their most significant engagement was the inauguration of "Notun Kuri Sports" a talent hunt initiative aimed at the physical and mental development of youths at the Sylhet District Stadium.

However, Zaima did not join her parents for that event.

Instead, she was present at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, where she was seen in the gallery enjoying the final clash of the three-match T20 International series between Bangladesh and New Zealand.