New york: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the first time on September 24, outlining Bangladesh's vision and priorities as he attends the 81st session of the global forum in New York this week.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Prime Minister is expected to highlight Bangladesh's democratic journey, rule of law and accountability, global peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, economic cooperation, youth and women's empowerment, education and health, the Rohingya crisis, equitable access to technology, and multilateral reform in his address.
Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam emphasized the special significance of Bangladesh's participation in this year's UNGA during a media briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tarique Rahman will be in New York from September 21 to 25, engaging in high-level meetings and diplomatic activities alongside the UNGA.
The Prime Minister, who will deliver his address in Bangla, aims to present Bangladesh's future vision and priorities to global leaders. The visit is seen as an opportunity to showcase Bangladesh's new democratic journey and expand bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
Highlighting the significance of this event, Foreign Secretary Siam noted that this is the current government's first participation in the UNGA. It provides a platform to present the new government's political commitments and future vision to the global community.
For the first time, Tarique Rahman will represent Bangladesh at the UN General Assembly, coinciding with Bangladesh's Foreign Minister presiding over the session. Siam regarded this as a historic moment of prestige and pride for the nation.
Aside from the General Assembly address, the Prime Minister will focus on drawing international attention to the Rohingya crisis and strengthening global cooperation for its resolution. Scheduled meetings with various heads of state and international officials aim to enhance bilateral relations.
Climate change is another key focus of the Prime Minister's UN engagements. On September 23, he will attend a high-level meeting on climate action and the just transition and will deliver opening remarks on sea-level rise threats the following day. The Prime Minister will advocate for climate-vulnerable countries, emphasizing climate finance, adaptation, technology transfer, and climate justice.
In addition to addressing global peace, security, sustainable development, and economic cooperation, the Prime Minister will participate in high-level meetings on global inequality, maternal and newborn health, and midwifery during his visit.
The UNGA session, presided over by UNGA President Dr. Khalilur Rahman, began on September 8 under the theme 'Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.' During his brief visit, the Prime Minister will hold numerous bilateral and high-level meetings, including those with leaders from Kuwait, Croatia, Bhutan, Thailand, Pakistan, and Haiti, as well as the UN Secretary-General and other senior officials.
The Prime Minister's visit will also focus on economic diplomacy, with planned meetings with representatives from Meta, Wall Street, and other business organizations. The address continues the legacy of his family, with his father, late President Ziaur Rahman, and mother, late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, having addressed the forum in previous years.