[2] In 1962–1963, Zaman served as the press attaché at the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations.

He served in the Organisation of Islamic Conference as the Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs.

[2][5] His lifelong affection for France and its language, which included his translation of the works of Andre Malraux into Bengali, was recognised by a Legion of Honour award by the French government.

[6][2] After retiring as a diplomat he wrote in a number of Bangladeshi newspapers such as the Janakantha, Dhaka Courier, and The Daily Star.

[8] Zaman was serving in the Pakistan consulate in the 1950s and studied Turkish under Vasfiye Kalmuk.