Bangladesh’s high commissioner to the United Kingdom has described the recent national parliamentary election as a “defining milestone” in the country’s democratic journey, reaffirming the government’s commitment to democracy, rule of law and human rights.

The remarks were made during a panel discussion titled “Bangladesh Election: What Next?” at the British Parliament, according to state-run news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).

High Commissioner Abida Islam said the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is committed to building an inclusive nation grounded in democratic principles and institutional reforms, it added.

The discussion was organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and held on Tuesday in a committee room of the British Parliament. It was chaired and moderated by British MP Apsana Begum.

BSS reported that the session featured distinguished speakers including Baroness Winterton, UK trade envoy for Bangladesh; Chietigj Bajpaee, senior research fellow at Chatham House; and Sohela Nazneen, senior research fellow at the Institute of Development Studies.

Attendees included former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and MP Rupa Huq.

Outlining the economic vision, Abida said Tarique aims to transform the country into a trillion-dollar economy based on economic and social inclusion.

She cited the Family Card scheme as a key initiative supporting social protection and advancing women’s rights.

On foreign policy, the high commissioner said the “Bangladesh First” approach prioritizes friendly relations with all countries while safeguarding sovereignty and national interests.

Winterton congratulated Tarique on assuming office and reaffirmed the UK’s interest in expanding trade cooperation.

She noted that Bangladesh’s growth potential can be fully realized in a “stable” democratic environment, the BSS said.

On the repatriation of assets allegedly laundered to the UK, she said the British government is “actively” supporting the process.

Bajpaee observed that, given the current political climate, the BNP’s electoral victory had been widely anticipated.