Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to deliver his first address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 24, outlining Bangladesh’s vision and priorities before world leaders at the 81st session of the global forum in New York.
Tarique, who will be accompanied by a relatively small delegation, leaves for New York today (September 21) and will stay until September 25, with a packed schedule of high-level meetings and diplomatic engagements on the sidelines of the session.
“I believe this visit will provide a significant opportunity to showcase the new government’s journey on the global stage, while also expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation,” Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam said at a media briefing at the foreign ministry yesterday.
Through the visit, he said, the government aims to send the world a message of a democratic, self-confident, responsible, peace-loving and promising Bangladesh.
“Bangladesh’s participation in this session holds special significance for several reasons. First, it marks the current government’s first participation in the United Nations’ highest global forum.
“It offers an opportunity to present the new government’s political commitments and vision for Bangladesh’s future to the global community,” Siam added.
Second, he said, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will represent Bangladesh at the UN General Assembly for the first time.
“Furthermore, Bangladesh’s foreign minister will serve as president of this session. This is therefore not only a rare and historic moment for us but also a matter of distinct prestige and pride.
“Third, on the sidelines of the session, the prime minister will hold important meetings with heads of state and government from various countries, as well as top officials of international organisations,” the foreign secretary said, adding that the meetings would open up new opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation.
Source: https://www.thedailystar.net/news/politics/news/pms-unga-trip-open-scope-expanding-ties-says-foreign-secy-4278456
