Bangladesh in Positive Talks with Saudi Arabia and Turkey to Join Makkah Accord

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir announced on Sunday that the government is in active discussions with Saudi Arabia and Turkey regarding Bangladesh’s potential inclusion in the Makkah Charter. Officials from both nations have signaled a positive stance toward Bangladesh joining the agreement, and the government maintains that it perceives no risks associated with the move.

The State Minister made these remarks during a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka. His comments follow a recent visit to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he attended a special session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). On the sidelines of the summit, Kabir held bilateral consultations with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Musa Kulaklikaya.

Addressing concerns regarding potential risks, Kabir emphasized Bangladesh’s extensive experience and global recognition in United Nations peacekeeping operations. He argued that since Saudi Arabia, the custodian of the two holy mosques, is a signatory to the charter, Bangladesh views the agreement as a constructive framework for addressing the challenges facing the Muslim world.

While formal procedures remain in progress, the State Minister confirmed that discussions with key bilateral partners have been encouraging. He dismissed concerns about prospective hazards, describing the Makkah Charter as a unique initiative that offers new opportunities for cooperation.

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“When we receive a formal invitation, we will inform the media,” Kabir stated. “We are discussing the matter with all relevant parties, and the dialogue remains positive.”

When asked further about the potential implications of the agreement, the State Minister cautioned against premature pessimism. “There is no point in fearing death before living,” he remarked, reiterating that the government sees the charter as an opportunity rather than a liability.

During the briefing, Kabir also briefly addressed inquiries regarding his own status, stating firmly, “I am a Bangladeshi,” when asked about his citizenship.