Abida Islam, a seasoned diplomat with an illustrious career spanning decades, has officially taken charge as Bangladesh's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on 27 January. Her appointment marks yet another milestone in her remarkable journey as a representative of Bangladesh on the global stage. 

Career in Diplomacy

Prior to her current role, Ambassador Islam served as the Ambassador of Bangladesh to the United Mexican States from August 29, 2021. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in fostering bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on enhancing trade and cultural exchanges between Bangladesh and Mexico.  

Her diplomatic career includes several noteworthy appointments:  

- Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (2017–2021): Ambassador Islam strengthened trade, investment, and cultural relations, leaving a lasting impact on Bangladesh-South Korea cooperation.  

- Deputy High Commissioner to Kolkata, India (2012–2014): As the first female Deputy High Commissioner, she fostered closer ties between Bangladesh and West Bengal, emphasizing cultural and economic collaboration.  

- Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka: She led key wings, including the International Organizations Wing and the Americas Area, advancing Bangladesh’s multilateral diplomacy and regional cooperation.  

Her extensive experience also includes postings at Bangladesh Missions in London, Colombo, and Brussels, where she represented Bangladesh at various international forums.  

Educational Achievements and Accolades

Ambassador Islam holds a Master’s in Foreign Affairs and Trade from Monash University, Australia, and a Master’s in Social Sciences from the University of Dhaka.  

Her exceptional contributions to diplomacy have been recognized with numerous awards, including: 

- The Order of Rio Branco from the Government of Brazil (2018)  

- The *Proud Ambassador Award* from South Korea (2018)  

- The Friendship Ambassador Award from Korea Cultural Friendship Ambassadors Association (2020)  

- A recognition plaque from the Korea Importers Association (2018)  

- A medal from Mexico’s National Museum of History in 2024 for cultural diplomacy  

Cultural Contributions 

A passionate advocate of Bangladeshi culture, Ambassador Islam has used her talents in singing and painting to promote the country’s heritage internationally. Her "Sonar Bangla" art exhibitions in Mexico City, Texcoco, and Puebla have significantly enhanced cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of Bangladesh’s rich artistic traditions.  

Personal Life

Ambassador Islam is a single mother to two children, Arshad Ahmed and Aysha Ahmed.  

Her new role as High Commissioner to the UK is expected to further deepen Bangladesh-UK relations, fostering stronger diplomatic, economic, and cultural partnerships.

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Edited By: Kamran Ahmed