মুয়াবিয়ার খিলাফতে বৈদেশিক সম্পর্ক: একটি ঐতিহাসিক পর্যালোচনা

Foreign Relations in the Caliphate of Muawiyah: A Historical Review

Abstract

Hazrat Muawiyah (RA.) was one of the rulers in the history of the world who is remembered for his own merits.  He set a unique example of valor, bravery and courage. In spite of being a controversial and extravagant ruler, his personal life remained incorrupted. Muawiyah ibn Abu Sufzan (RA.) ruled as the first Umayyad Caliph of Islam from 661 to 680 AD. regardless of the methods he adopted to seize power, historians have recognized him as an experienced ruler, a skilled diplomat and a fearless warrior. He became a caliph of Damascus and this initiated the concept of monarchy in the history of Islam.  During his reign, a well-organized and policy strategy was followed in foreign relations. He focused on expanding the boundaries of the Islamic Caliphate as well as showing skill in establishing good foreign relations with the Byzantine Empire, North Africa, Transoxiana in Central Asia, Khorasan and other neighboring powers. Not only was his Caliphate consolidated but also extended both regionally and internationally. This policy helped him to lay the foundation of the Umayyad Caliphate. This paper attempts to highlight the key aspects of foreign relations during his caliphate.