New York:Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's recent five-day visit to New York for the 81st UNGA session emphasized Bangladesh's national interests and priorities through extensive bilateral and multilateral engagements, according to Prime Minister's office spokesperson Mahdi Amin.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister's itinerary included participation in 30 engagements over four working days, featuring 11 bilateral meetings, eight UNGA-related activities, and 11 institutional engagements. The visit addressed issues crucial to Bangladesh, such as trade, investment, energy security, and the Rohingya crisis, among others.
Mahdi Amin noted that the Prime Minister's inaugural address to the UN General Assembly was a significant element of the visit, covering education, health, and technology, and reflecting on Bangladesh's stance on global peace and sustainable development. The address also tackled issues like Palestine and climate change.
The Prime Minister attended high-level events focusing on topics like the Rohingya crisis and climate action. Bangladesh's strong position on Palestine was underscored by its walkout during the Israeli prime minister's UNGA speech.
The visit also secured assurances of support from various countries and organizations for Bangladesh's national interests. It was noted that Bangladesh's humanitarian actions regarding the Rohingya were appreciated internationally.
Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibly highlighted a shift in political culture, emphasizing the smaller delegation size and the Prime Minister's travel on commercial flights, marking a departure from previous practices. The Prime Minister returned home after his significant international representation of Bangladesh.