Momen urges Asia to lead 'world of tomorrow' through peace

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen Saturday called on the Asian nation to lead the 'world of tomorrow' through practicing culture of peace, promoted by Bangladesh. He made the call while speaking at a roundtable titled "Asia Anew: For sustainable regional growth" during the 2nd Antalya Diplomacy Forum held in Antalya, Turkey, according to a message received here. 

The high-profile roundtable was also attended by several other foreign ministers from Asia. The Bangladesh foreign minister urged the Asian nations to take the leadership role for addressing the emerging challenges and opportunities in the rapidly changing world.

Referring to the different current conflicts in the world, Dr Momen emphasised that tolerance and empathy is essential for a world that is "sustainable and habitable for our future generations". 

Mentioning the Rohingya crisis, and the bold decision of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in providing shelter to the 1.1 million forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, the foreign minister stressed on international cooperation in addressing the regional crises. 

Dr. Momen reiterated the Bangladesh proposal for a South-South forum of Foreign Ministers that would share ideas, and promote best practices for the economic issues of the developing countries. 

He emphasised on the importance of ensuring green technologies at affordable costs to all countries, and the need of investment for ensuring gainful employment. 

Dr. Momen elaborated on the policies of Bangladesh in addressing the challenges like COVID19, climate change, and how the government is implementing policies to take Bangladesh in the league of developed nations within the next two decades. 

The Bangladesh foreign minister also held bilateral talks with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu on the sideline of the forum. During the meeting, the two foreign ministers discussed issues of mutual interest as well as the crisis of Rohingya stalemate.