Dhaka, Feb. 20 -- State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed has said the BNP-led government intends to move forward with a "strong backbone", signalling a more confident and inclusive diplomatic approach following its electoral mandate.

Speaking at the foreign ministry on Thursday, she said Bangladesh would engage all countries while firmly safeguarding national interests in a changing regional and global landscape.

"Bangladesh should be viewed differently," she told reporters when asked about the foreign policy challenges facing the government.

She pointed out that the new administration's popular mandate had strengthened its diplomatic footing.

"Our backbone has become strong after a long time because we have come with the peop...