national Desk
Dhaka, Bangladesh – Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey today commenced her first official visit to Bangladesh, aimed at discussing areas of mutual interest and exploring ways to support the country’s aspirations for peace, stability, democracy, good governance, and prosperity.
Scheduled for five days, from 20 to 24 November, Botchwey’s itinerary includes meetings with key figures in the interim government, including Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, political party leaders, the Chief Election Commissioner, high commissioners, and other stakeholders, according to the Commonwealth Secretariat.
The visit comes ahead of Bangladesh’s general election, expected to be held in February 2026, at what the Secretariat described as “a pivotal moment in the country’s national journey.” During her discussions, the Secretary-General will provide briefings on the Commonwealth’s new Strategic Plan, which identifies democracy as one of its three core pillars, and seek guidance on how tailored Commonwealth support can best assist the people of Bangladesh.
Speaking ahead of her arrival, Botchwey highlighted Bangladesh as “a valued member of the Commonwealth,” noting that it was the first intergovernmental organization joined by Bangladesh soon after its independence. “The Commonwealth and Bangladesh have a strong partnership, one that matters even more now as the country heads towards the polls next year,” she said.
In line with the Commonwealth Charter, she emphasized her intent to engage with a wide range of stakeholders “to understand the context first-hand and explore where we can offer informed support in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.”
She added, “Our shared commitment with Bangladesh remains supporting a peaceful, inclusive, and participatory environment, where rights and fundamental freedoms of every citizen are respected. That is what the people of Bangladesh rightly expect from us. They can continue to count on the Commonwealth as a trusted partner in their efforts to build a just, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.”
The Secretary-General also conveyed her best wishes to the people of Bangladesh as they prepare to exercise their democratic rights and reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s full support throughout the country’s electoral process.
A statement from the Bangladesh High Commission in London noted that the visit is expected to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the Commonwealth, reinforcing shared commitments to democratic governance and socio-economic development.