Dhaka:Acting Foreign Minister Humaiun Kobir announced on Sunday that Bangladesh has successfully secured an extension of its preparatory period for graduation from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) category by three years, marking it as a significant diplomatic success for the nation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the extension decision was achieved within eight months of the current government's formation under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Kobir emphasized the importance of this extension, stating that Bangladesh effectively communicated its necessity to the United Nations and the international community. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently adopted a resolution granting this extension, moving the deadline to November 24, 2029.
This development is seen as a major diplomatic achievement, allowing Bangladesh additional time to bolster economic resilience, enhance export competitiveness, and prepare for the loss of LDC-specific trade preferences and international support measures. Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Z. Khan, stated that the country's graduation is driven by national aspirations rather than international processes. The government remains committed to achieving this goal.
Following the formation of the new government, Bangladesh formally requested the extension in February 2026, citing various global and domestic economic challenges. The UN Committee for Development Policy (CDP) recommended favorable consideration of this request, leading to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) advising the General Assembly on a final decision in July.
To ensure a smooth transition, the government has developed a three-year roadmap outlining strategic actions. The extension provides Bangladesh with a crucial period to address structural vulnerabilities, diversify exports, improve infrastructure, and implement necessary economic reforms.