Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has emphasised the importance of credible communication, strong democratic institutions, and a free media in ensuring stability in the evolving global order at the International Strategic Communication Summit (STRATCOM) 2026, held today in Istanbul.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, and Head of Communications Burhanettin Duran delivered the opening remarks at the event.

The Information Minister thanked the Government of Turkiye for hosting the timely forum amid rising global uncertainty, marked by shifting power dynamics and growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation, while delivering his speech at the panel discussion titled “A New Framework for the Global Order: A Communication Perspective.”

He highlighted that strategic communication is now central to governance, with nations increasingly judged by the credibility and consistency of their communication.

He stressed that the most effective response to misinformation lies in strengthening institutions, particularly an independent and professional media.

“A strong fourth estate is essential to protect truth, ensure accountability, and sustain public trust,” the minister said.

Bangladesh’s ongoing reform priorities were also outlined, including strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring media freedom, reviewing restrictive laws, and developing an independent media regulatory framework.

The Information Minister reiterated that the solution to information disorder lies in a balanced, institutional approach—rejecting both censorship and unchecked chaos.

He further outlined three key principles for strategic communication: credibility, democratic resilience, and global cooperation.

The Information Minister highlighted the challenges of tackling misinformation and disinformation in a densely populated and rapidly digitizing country like Bangladesh. He noted that during the previous fascist regime, information was strategically distorted and used as a tool to control the public.

He Minister stated in his speech that in this digital age, an effective balance is needed between access to information and the free flow of information. A new, appropriate framework at both national and international levels will help us address emerging challenges. Bangladesh seeks to learn from other countries on these issues, while also contributing its own experiences to enrich global knowledge. This shared knowledge will work towards global peace and prosperity.

Highlighting bilateral ties, Bangladesh reaffirmed its close relationship with Turkiye and appreciated its support on humanitarian issues, including the Rohingya crisis.

Zahir Uddin Swapan concluded his speech with a call for a more inclusive global communication framework that ensures the voices of developing nations are fairly represented.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Tahsin Ertugruloglu, Syria’s Minister of Information Hamza Almustafa, and First Vice Minister for Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Kanat Zhumabayevich Iskakov also participated in the panel discussion.

Sun News/ra