Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing to replace Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and make changes in several key diplomatic missions, according to ministry and diplomatic sources. Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, is likely to be appointed as the new foreign secretary. Former UN envoy Muhammad Abdul Muhith is expected to become the next High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, while human rights advocate Irene Khan may be named Bangladesh’s new permanent representative to the UN if Chowdhury moves to the ministry.

The report notes that frequent changes in the foreign secretary position have disrupted the ministry’s operations. Officials expressed concern that such reshuffles come at a time when Bangladesh faces challenges in the international arena. Asad Alam Siam, who took office in June 2025 after serving as ambassador to the United States, is being replaced after only one year, despite the usual three-year term.

Senior diplomats reportedly feel frustrated by the decision, saying it undermines expectations of stability and renewal within the ministry under the interim government.