Bangladesh has called for stronger collective action to address the growing challenges of cybersecurity, misinformation, and disinformation – issues it says no country can tackle alone.
The call was made by National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman while attending the seventh NSA-level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in New Delhi on Thursday.
The meeting followed his bilateral talks with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval a day earlier, during which the two discussed key issues between the two neighbours.
Rahman said cybersecurity is now a high priority for Bangladesh, as the country has recently faced a “constant barrage of misinformation and disinformation.”
“We are committed to securing our cyberspace, critical infrastructure and technology for the safety of our citizens,” he said. “But national actions alone are not enough. We need to articulate and implement our collective actions.”
Bangladesh’s role in CSC
Bangladesh has been participating in several CSC initiatives and will continue to do so in line with the principles outlined in the organisation’s charter – sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and non-interference.
“Bangladesh recognises the importance of the five identified pillars of the Conclave’s work,” Rahman said. “CSC can play a crucial role along these pillars to enhance collective security, regional stability, and shared prosperity for all members.”
Counter-terrorism and emerging threats
Reiterating Bangladesh’s stance on terrorism, the NSA said the country has always condemned global terrorism and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of extremism.
He warned that rapid digitalisation and technological advances, including artificial intelligence, are amplifying cyber threats across the region.
“As we navigate the complexities of regional security, let us reaffirm our commitment to mutual trust, mutuality of interests, and shared benefits,” he said.
Bangladesh, he reaffirmed, is “pledge-bound and ready to work hand in hand” to ensure a stable, secure, peaceful, and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
“We cannot afford to allow any exogenous or indigenous forces to threaten the security and well-being of our regional community,” he added.
