Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Monday sought support from all including the media to promote the brand name of Bangladesh and tell its stories abroad as the government is giving much focus on both economic and public diplomacy.
"Bangladesh is a land of opportunities. We have to tell our stories," he said seeking support from all to promote public diplomacy to brighten Bangladesh image abroad.
Momen said they are working hard to change the narratives and show the world what Bangladesh is doing with many success stories in hand.
He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs needs more resources to achieve its goal and informed that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina responded instantly on such request saying it is done.
Dr Momen was addressing a programme hosted by Director General of Public Diplomacy wing at MoFA Samia Halim which was followed by dinner at State guesthouse Padma.
Rector of the Foreign Service Academy Syed Masud Mahmood Khundoker and President of Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) Angur Nahar Monty also spoke.
The Foreign Minister said the government will utilise the "Mujib Corners" established in Bangladesh Missions abroad across the world marking the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to tell Bangladesh stories.
Masud Mahmood said they must engage people to promote public diplomacy. He said diplomacy is not all about diplomats but people will also play role to that end.
He also said the relations with journalists will be strengthened and their door will remain open always for any suggestion.
Samia Halim said the media is very important stakeholder for public diplomacy. "Help us promote public diplomacy."
DCAB President Monty appreciated the MoFA initiative and assured of extending cooperation in this regard.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has recently changed the name of its "External Publicity" wing into "Public Diplomacy" wing to keep it better functional in achieving goals.
Through the renamed wing, the MoFA will reach out Bangladeshis at home and abroad to keep them informed about Bangladesh foreign policy, success stories and build positive image at the international level.
The wing will use various ways to exchange opinions with stakeholders and create awareness about government initiatives.
The government's aim is to establish effective democracy in Bangladesh which was established through great Independence, MoFA said adding that it is essential to see reflection of opinions of people from all walks of life in running the State in a democratic framework.
