Outgoing interim government chief Muhammad Yunus on Monday (February 16, 2026) said his 18-month rule restored three core pillars of Bangladesh’s external engagement - "sovereignty, national interests, and dignity", and it is no longer a "submissive" nation.
In his farewell address to the nation, Mr. Yunus said that at the end of his regime’s rule, “Today's Bangladesh is confident, active, and responsible in protecting its independent interests".
Oath taking ceremony of new MPs, ‘Constitution Reform Commission’ and new Bangladesh government on February 17
“Bangladesh is no longer a country with a submissive foreign policy or dependent on the instructions and advice of other countries,” he said in the televised address a day ahead of quitting power.
He emphasised that his 18-month tenure had rebuilt the three "fundamental foundations" of the country’s foreign engagement: "sovereignty, national interests, and dignity".
