Sharing his experiences of official dinners, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Sunday said dinner tables are not merely for dining or casual chats; they are ‘strategic platforms’ for diplomacy and national branding.
"Regardless of who assumes leadership thereafter, I hope the new leader embraces this personable approach to diplomacy, enlivening dinner tables during foreign tours, much like Professor Yunus has done during his interim tenure," he said, noting that by June 30 next year, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will return to his previous role.
Alam said one notable aspect of Prof Yunus' diplomatic style is evident during official dinners.
"Typically, these events can be formal and exhausting for attending leaders and ministers. Yet, Prof Yunus leverages these occasions to build rapport," said the Press Secretary in a post shared from his verified Facebook account.
Alam said Prof Yunus initiates lively conversations, drawing in guests and creating an atmosphere filled with warmth and heartfelt gestures.
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"His charm and knowledge turn these dinners into opportunities for forging friendships and promoting Bangladesh's interests," said the Press Secretary.
For over sixteen years, Alam claimed that they lacked a leader who could engage meaningfully with international counterparts.
"Diplomats often described past official dinners as dull affairs, with both hosts and guests eager for them to conclude swiftly," he said.
Diplomacy often unfolds across formal tables, where leaders engage in structured discussions, Alam said.
"Over the past ten months, I've witnessed numerous such interactions. Prof Yunus brings a distinctive approach to these engagements," he said.
The Press Secretary said Prof Yunus reviews the notes prepared by their diplomats, infusing them with his personal insights and warmth.
"This method transforms routine dialogues into meaningful exchanges, fostering genuine connections with the counterparts," he said.