Adviser on Foreign Affairs to Prime Minister Tariq Rahman Humayun Kobir has stressed on the ‘Bangladesh first policy’ while maintaining ties with major global powers including India, China and the US, saying Bangladesh will not become a “football” between India and China. His comments come as Dhaka is looking to balance bilateral relations with several countries, especially those in its neighbourhood, through cooperation in various sectors including infrastructure, trade, energy.“We can act as referees from time to time to ensure fair play, but we will not be football,” Kobir said at a roundtable discussion on Saturday. Asked about his relations with China and India, Kobir pointed to Dhaka’s intentions to play a bigger role in the region. Describing China as an “important development partner” for Bangladesh, he said, “Bangladesh will maintain balanced relations with both countries while firmly protecting its interests.”Humayun Kobir, advisor on foreign affairs to Bangladesh PM Tariq Rahman, stressed that Dhaka will continue to pursue “balanced global engagement” as a strategic policy option. “Balance is not a weakness. Balance is a strategy,” he said.He said the BNP-led government will pursue the “Bangladesh first” foreign principle based on pragmatism, strategic balance and national interest. Responding to questions from diplomats, academics and policy experts, Humayun said the government would avoid excessive dependence on any one country and instead adopt a “flexible and multi-pronged” diplomatic strategy.Humayun also questioned the relevance of the traditional foreign policy slogan “friendship towards all, malice towards none” and argued that a more strategic and realistic approach is required in today’s volatile geopolitical environment. The new principle does not mean separatism. Rather, Bangladesh’s sovereignty, development and national interests should be given priority, he said.He also argued that the democratic legitimacy of the new government strengthens Bangladesh’s position on the global stage. “We are a legitimately elected government with the mandate of the people. This gives us a position of strength in negotiations,” he said.On South Asian diplomacy, Kabir said the government wants to revive regional cooperation frameworks including SAARC and BIMSTEC, adding that he believes stronger engagement will amplify Bangladesh’s voice.