Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said on Wednesday that Bangladesh is committed to protecting its international partnerships, even as it explores new defense cooperation, including a potential agreement with China for military drone manufacturing.

“We will definitely not do anything that will deteriorate our relations with any party. We will act while maintaining a balance,” he stated during a briefing at the foreign ministry.

His remarks addressed concerns regarding how a government-to-government deal with Beijing might impact Dhaka’s strategic relationship with Washington.

The Adviser underscored the necessity of modernizing the nation's defense capabilities, particularly highlighting the urgent needs of the Air Force.

“Our aircraft are very old, and many of them are not even in serviceable condition. We will have to make minimum purchases. There is ongoing discussion about where to procure equipment from and how much to acquire from which country,” he explained.

Regarding geopolitical alignments, Touhid clarified that Bangladesh has remained independent of any new alliances over the last 18 months.

“Discussions on various groupings will continue. If we see that joining a group serves our interests and helps protect them, we will do so. Otherwise, there is no question of joining,” he noted.

Turning to domestic security ahead of the national election, the Adviser explained that the government is implementing measures to ensure a peaceful transition.

This includes addressing the entry of "unexpected individuals" from abroad who might disrupt the electoral process.

“We are not stopping the issuance of visas. Those who wish to come may apply for visas, and we will issue them as long as their purpose is valid,” he said, clarifying the reported suspension of visa-on-arrival services.

He added, “You know, during the election period, there may be attempts to create unexpected situations. Some unwanted individuals may try to enter the country suddenly.”

These precautions coincide with an announcement from Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, which informed citizens that Bangladesh has suspended "Visa on Arrival" facilities for all eligible countries from January 15 to February 15.

Furthermore, the Adviser addressed the recent temporary closure of visa sections in three key diplomatic missions in India.

“What I have done is that I have asked our three missions to keep their visa sections closed for the time being. It’s a security issue,” he had stated on January 8.

Reaffirming the decision on Wednesday, he noted it was a response to a "special situation" aimed at ensuring the safety of Bangladesh’s foreign missions.