There has always been a feigned attempt by the diplomatic corps in Dhaka to keep their role (read: meddling) in Bangladesh’s politics under wraps. Quite understandably, neither our politicians nor the diplomats feel comfortable discussing such matters openly. But predictably, the foreign diplomats appear to have become more active with the 12th parliamentary election less than a year away.
In recent months, there have been quite a few visits from countries that are deemed to have the potential to wield significant influence on Bangladesh politics, especially around elections. A number of top US officials visited Bangladesh for talks with government officials, civil society members and senior journalists over the last few years. The Indian foreign secretary visited on February 15. The Chinese foreign minister, on his way to Africa, stopped by in Dhaka in January for a brief meeting with his Bangladeshi counterpart at the airport. Usually, newly appointed Chinese foreign ministers begin their stint with a tour of Africa. This time, however, the minister seemed to consider Bangladesh important enough for a brief stopover on his first trip abroad.
