State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Mar 9, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today initiated efforts to promote cultural diplomacy as a key instrument of soft power to strengthen Bangladesh’s global image and expand people-to-people contacts worldwide.

The initiative came at a meeting held at the Foreign Ministry to explore ways to advance Bangladesh’s cultural diplomacy through coordinated programmes and international cultural exchanges.

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury and State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam attended the meeting alongside the Foreign Secretary, the Cultural Affairs Secretary and other senior officials.

The meeting discussed organising overseas cultural festivals featuring music and dance performances, art exhibitions, book fairs, folk music programmes and culinary showcases to promote Bangladesh’s cultural heritage.

Participants also reviewed existing and pending cultural agreements, memoranda of understanding and Cultural Exchange Programmes with more than 100 countries.

Both ministries expressed commitment to closer coordination to expand Bangladesh’s cultural diplomacy and support regional cooperation under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation framework.