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On December 2, 2025, the Global Network Seminar was held, and the seminar welcomed Professor Reza S. M. Ali of the University of Dhaka.

Under the theme “Bangladesh–Japan Strategic Partnership in a Shifting Indo-Pacific Geopolitical Dynamics,” Professor Ali discussed the strategic partnership between Bangladesh and Japan in the context of the changing geopolitical dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region.

In his lecture, Professor Ali discussed Bangladesh’s geopolitical and economic significance within the framework of Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision. He highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic location along the Bay of Bengal, its young and growing labor force, and its role in enhancing regional connectivity through infrastructure development. He explained how these factors contribute to the development of the strategic partnership between Japan and Bangladesh. The lecture also explored the role of middle powers in the changing regional environment of the Indo-Pacific and offered perspectives on the future development of Japan–Bangladesh relations.

A total of 52 graduate students and faculty members from both inside and outside the university participated in the seminar. During the question-and-answer session, participants raised a wide range of questions and actively exchanged views with Professor Ali. The seminar provided a valuable opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of Bangladesh’s geopolitical and economic significance in the Indo-Pacific region, while also reflecting on the strategic partnership between Japan and Bangladesh and the role of middle powers in the evolving regional order.