Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development, United Nations peacekeeping and multilateral cooperation during a meeting with senior UN officials in New York.
The commitment came during a meeting between State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific Khaled Khiari at the UN Headquarters on Thursday, according to a Foreign Ministry press release issued on Friday morning.
During the meeting, Shama outlined the priorities of the newly elected government, focusing on restoring public trust, strengthening democratic institutions, improving transparency and accountability, enhancing public service delivery, and upholding human rights and the rule of law.
She also highlighted the government’s social protection programmes, including the Family Card and Farmers Card initiatives aimed at addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities among low-income and farming communities.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s role as one of the world’s leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, the state minister stressed the importance of preserving peacekeeping mandates despite financial constraints within the United Nations.
She also called for greater participation of women and young people in post-conflict peacebuilding efforts.
On the Rohingya issue, Shama reiterated that the safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the only viable long-term solution.
She urged continued international engagement and support over the crisis.
Khaled Khiari praised Bangladesh’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping missions and appreciated the country’s role in advancing women’s participation in peace and security initiatives.
