Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has said that it is deeply unfortunate that Bangladesh chose not to participate in the BRICS summit in India.Hasina told PTI, “Bangladesh’s participation in the BRICS summit would have opened new opportunities for its economic and social development. Foreign policy cannot be conducted through personal reaction or short-term political calculation. Bangladesh needs a mature, balanced and confident foreign policy.She said engagement with BRICS is also about Bangladesh’s own place in the international community. Relations between two countries can’t be determined by personal considerations or political sensitivities involving one individual, she added.The former PM said, “Bangladesh is passing through a grave national crisis and democratic space has been closed. Extremist forces have regained space in Bangladesh.“My return to Bangladesh is part of struggle to restore democracy, voting rights and rule of law. I want to stand beside the people of Bangladesh, fight for their rights, and help restore democracy, security and development.“People of Bangladesh must be allowed to decide their own future through a free, fair and inclusive election. My return will be significant as it will be a step towards returning Bangladesh to its people.”