Govt not feeling any external pressure: Hasan

Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Sunday said the new government is not feeling any external pressure as all countries irrespective of east and west have already showed their interest to work with Dhaka, reports BSS. 

"Different countries have different perspectives, narratives... We do value those and end of the day we will work with all (countries)," he said.

Dr Hasan made the remarks while exchanged views with journalist on his first day of office as foreign minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.

He said the elections were free and fair and the ambassadors of the US, UK and all other countries have already congratulated the new government and expressed willingness to work with it.

The foreign minister said he would follow the doctrine of Bangladesh' foreign policy -- friendship to all, malice towards none -- set by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, they have taken the country forwards by further strengthening relations with both east and west.

Replying to a query, Hasan said now the world is being polarized and maintaining relations with all of them will be a major challenge.

"I will lay emphasis on economic diplomacy as my major focus," the foreign minister added.

He said he would also work on further expanding business with South America and Africa.

During the time, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Maritime Affairs Unit Secretary Rear Admiral (retd) Khurshed Alam were present, among others.