05/04/2025
The Australia Bangladesh Business Council (ABBC) successfully hosted a landmark event titled “Engaging the Diaspora in the Age of Transnationalism” on 3 April 2025, held at the prestigious Park Hyatt Sydney.
The forum brought together key leaders from the government, academia, civil society, and the Bangladeshi diaspora to explore the evolving influence of transnational communities on bilateral relations, policy, and development.
The event underscored the need to move beyond ceremonial diaspora outreach and toward structured, strategic partnerships across borders—recognising diaspora members as bridge-builders in education, innovation, diplomacy, and investment.
The gathering was honoured by the presence of:
• His Excellency F.M. Borhan Uddin, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Australia
• Emeritus Professor Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, Government of Bangladesh
• Dr. Andrew Charlton MP, Federal Member for Parramatta and Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Bangladesh
In his speech, High Commissioner F.M. Borhan Uddin highlighted the transformative potential of the diaspora, stating:
“Our diaspora is a strategic extension of Bangladesh’s global identity. Their ideas, investments, and influence matter now more than ever. Forums like this are crucial in connecting policy with people.”
Professor Anisuzzaman Chowdhury emphasised the interim government’s inclusive vision, referencing the leadership of Dr. Muhammad Yunus and outlining opportunities for diaspora expertise to directly influence policy reform, public service innovation, and ethical governance.
“We are laying the foundation of a future-ready Bangladesh—one that welcomes the diaspora not as spectators but as architects of national progress,” he said.
Dr. Andrew Charlton MP, who has long championed multicultural engagement, noted:
“Bangladeshis in Australia have contributed immensely to our national story. From entrepreneurship to academia, they represent one of the most vibrant and upwardly mobile diaspora communities. Deepening this bilateral corridor is a win-win for both nations.”
The event attracted an impressive and diverse set of attendees from both countries, including:
• Faruque Ahmed, Managing Director, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Ltd.
• Ashik Ahmed, Co-founder & CEO, Deputy
• Mostafizur Rahman, Senior Director, Trade & Investment (South Asia), Australian High Commission, Dhaka
• Tanveer Shaheed, Director, International Recruitment, Macquarie University
• Anthony Koure, Respected Community Leader
Alongside prominent academics, social entrepreneurs, policy experts, and community advocates from across New South Wales and the wider diaspora.
Panel discussions and breakout sessions explored:
• Creating a Diaspora Engagement Framework aligned with national goals.
• Developing a “Diaspora Program” to map and mobilise talent and technical expertise
• Enhancing Australia-Bangladesh research collaboration through academic partnerships
• Strengthening pathways for diaspora investment and advisory roles in public sector transformation
• Advocating for inclusive migration policies that recognise the long-term socio-economic contributions of diaspora populations
In his closing address, ABBC Chairperson Mr. Foyez Dewan remarked:
“The diaspora is not a footnote in our national journey—it’s a driving force. ABBC remains committed to advancing meaningful engagement through dialogue, diplomacy, and development.”
The evening concluded with a formal dinner and presentation of commemorative crests to distinguished guests in recognition of their contributions to diaspora empowerment and bilateral goodwill.
Established nearly two decades ago, the Australia Bangladesh Business Council is a leading platform committed to fostering bilateral trade, investment, and people-to-people ties between Australia and Bangladesh. ABBC serves as a non-political, non-profit bridge between policy, business, and the Bangladeshi diaspora.
