United News of Bangladesh

Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, former chief adviser of the interim government, has congratulated Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly,” he said in a statement on Tuesday night. “This is a moment to express national pride for this achievement. It reflects the profound trust and confidence that the international community places in Dr Khalil’s diplomatic leadership and it is a powerful testament to our nation’s growing contributions to global peace, sustainable development, and international solidarity,” Prof Yunus said, adding that Khalilur Rahman has made all proud of being Bangladeshis. He also conveyed best wishes to the foreign minister for a distinguished and impactful tenure. Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected president of the 81st session of the UNGA after defeating Cyprus in the election held at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. Of the 190 votes cast, Bangladesh secured 99, while Cyprus received 91.

President of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday congratulated Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "I wish you every success in this important role," he said in a message. The Maldives President said he is confident that under Dr Khalilur Rahman's able leadership, the General Assembly will continue to serve as a vital platform for all member states. "This is indeed a proud moment for the people of Bangladesh and the wider region," he said. Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected president of the 81st session of the UNGA after defeating Cyprus in the election held at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. Of the 190 votes cast, Bangladesh secured 99, while Cyprus received 91.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, who was elected president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), will return home from the US on Thursday. BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan told UNB on Tuesday that the foreign minister, along with Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir, who travelled to New York to participate in the UNGA presidency election, will arrive in Dhaka in the morning. Khalilur Rahman will serve as president of the UNGA for one year, he said. He was elected president of the 81st session of the UNGA after defeating Cyprus in the election held at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. In the ballot, 190 votes were cast, with Bangladesh receiving 99 and Cyprus 91.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday congratulated Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "Congratulations to FM Dr Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh on his election as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly," he said. UNGA Presidency: Bangladesh secures 'historic, landmark' win against Cyprus In a message posted on his verified X account, Jaishankar said he looks forward to working closely with Dr Khalilur to advance their shared priorities and strengthen multilateral cooperation. Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected president of the 81st session of the UNGA after defeating Cyprus in the election held at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. In the ballot, 190 votes were cast, with Bangladesh receiving 99 and Cyprus 91.

China on Tuesday conveyed its warm congratulations on the election of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). It expressed hope and belief that President-elect Khalilur Rahman will unite all members, uphold sovereign equality, defend international rule of law, promote dialogue and consultation, and consolidate the foundation of multilateralism. PM congratulates Khalilur Rahman on election as UNGA president "It reflects the confidence that the international community places in Bangladesh and its constructive role in advancing multilateralism and international cooperation," said the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka. The Chinese side stands ready to support Khalilur Rahman in performing his duties. Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected president of the 81st session of the UNGA after defeating Cyprus in the election held at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. In the ballot, 190 votes were cast, with Bangladesh receiving 99 and Cyprus 91.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has been elected President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the 81st  session, competing against Cyprus which Dhaka described as "historic and landmark" victory. In the election held at the United Nations Headquarters on Tuesday, Dr. Khalilur Rahman secured 99 votes from the 193 Member States of the United Nations, defeating the candidate of Cyprus, who received 91 votes. This "landmark" victory is a strong testament to the confidence and trust that the international community places in Bangladesh, as well as to the country’s growing diplomatic stature and constructive engagement within the multilateral system, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dhaka said this achievement is not only the election of a Bangladeshi candidate to one of the most distinguished positions within the United Nations; it also constitutes a significant international recognition of Bangladesh’s longstanding commitment to multilateral diplomacy, international peace and security, sustainable development, and global cooperation. The successful outcome reflects the convergence of three key factors: the visionary leadership and timely guidance of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the coordinated and intensive diplomatic efforts undertaken by Bangladesh within a limited timeframe, and the extensive experience, professional excellence, and international standing of Dr. Khalilur Rahman, said the Ministry. At the time the BNP-led Government assumed office, less than three months remained before the election. Despite the limited preparation period, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman took a firm and decisive position in support of Bangladesh’s candidacy. By nominating Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, he expressed strong confidence that Bangladesh would emerge victorious through focused diplomatic engagement and strategic outreach to Member States. In this context, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman recalled Bangladesh’s successful election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council in 1978. At that time, under the courageous and visionary leadership of the late President Ziaur Rahman, Bangladesh mounted an effective diplomatic campaign within a short period and prevailed over the then formidable candidate, Japan, to secure its election to the Security Council. Drawing inspiration from that historic achievement, he had expressed firm confidence from the outset that Bangladesh would similarly succeed in the election for the Presidency of the 81st Session of the General Assembly. One of the biggest challenges for Bangladesh has been the severe limitation of time. Although Bangladesh formally announced its candidature in 2020, the Government nominated Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman as its candidate on 27 February 2026, following which the country launched its full-scale international campaign. Through high-level bilateral meetings, sustained diplomatic outreach, and multilateral engagement with all 193 UN member states, Bangladesh has actively sought to build broad international support within a very short time. Bangladesh, in practical terms, has successfully conducted  five years’ worth of diplomatic campaigning in just three months. In contrast, Cyprus announced its candidature as early as 2016 and has maintained a continuous campaign for nearly a decade, particularly intensifying its outreach efforts over the past year. Bangladesh’s campaign has been spearheaded by Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, and the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, supported by Bangladesh’s missions and embassies worldwide. The distinguished professional experience, diplomatic acumen, and proven leadership credentials of Bangladesh’s candidate contributed significantly to this landmark achievement. A major milestone in the campaign came on 13 May 2026, when Bangladesh’s candidate Dr. Khalilur Rahman participated in the Interactive Dialogue organized by the current President of the General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock. During the two-and-a-half-hour session, Dr. Rahman presented his vision statement and outlined his priorities and work plan for leading the General Assembly. The dialogue was widely praised within diplomatic circles. Following these extensive engagements and consultations, nearly 30 Member States formally conveyed their support for Bangladesh’s candidacy, reinforcing growing confidence in the country’s vision and leadership. This broad-based endorsement placed Bangladesh on a clear and credible path towards electoral success.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed on Tuesday highlighted Bangladesh’s application for deferment of the LDC graduation and sought Switzerland’s support in this regard. The issue was discussed when Assistant Foreign Secretary and Head of the Asia-Pacific Division at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Markus Leitner paid a courtesy call on the State Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The United Nations Committee for Development Policy (CDP) has expressed a positive position regarding Bangladesh’s request to extend its preparatory period for graduation from the least developed country (LDC) category until November 24 in 2029. Leitner expressed confidence in further strengthening the longstanding and friendly relations between Bangladesh and Switzerland under the present Government. The State Minister appreciated Switzerland’s continued friendship and valuable support to Bangladesh’s socio-economic development.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and humanitarian partners have asked the world not to forget Rohingyas in Bangladesh, noting that maintaining only minimum levels of humanitarian assistance risks generating "more complex, severe and costly" consequences. "The international community has rallied to support the hyper-prioritized appeal, now 60 per cent funded. Maintaining only minimum levels of humanitarian assistance risks generating more complex, severe and costly consequences," said UNHCR spokesperson Babar Baloch while responding to a question at a press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UN food relief agency steps up aid for Rohingays amid heavy rains This year, the world will mark nine years since the large-scale forced displacement of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar into Bangladesh. "With our partners, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling on the international community not to forget the 1.2 million refugees in Bangladesh, most of them in camps in Cox’s Bazar," said the UNHCR spokesperson.  For decades, Rohingya people have been driven from their homes in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, with Bangladesh providing protection to successive movements of refugees since the late seventies. The largest influx came in August 2017, when some 750,000 Rohingya were forced to flee across the border. The generous support from Bangladesh and the international community has been critical in meeting their basic needs and providing protection. Bangladesh is now hosting over 1.3 million Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. UNHCR’s call comes amid growing global instability and rising humanitarian pressures, which have forced difficult prioritization and threatened essential services for vulnerable populations. Last month in Bangladesh, the United Nations and partners, coordinating with the government of Bangladesh, called for renewed international support – appealing for $710.5 million to meet the most urgent needs of Rohingya refugees and local host communities. Despite growing needs, this hyper-prioritized appeal is 26 per cent less than last year. Since 2017, humanitarian funding for the Rohingya refugee response has allowed Bangladesh to sustain life-saving assistance and make major progress in refugee education, health and protection. However, significant humanitarian needs persist and, without continued international solidarity, the plight of Rohingya families will deteriorate, said the UNHCR spokesperson. Amid sharp reductions in humanitarian and development support, Rohingya refugees remain largely reliant on aid. "Limited economic opportunities and reduced assistance continue to impact households," said the official, noting that the situation is more acute for vulnerable groups, including women and girls, people with disabilities, and older people, and some 150,000 new arrivals who fled renewed violence in Rakhine State since early 2024. As targeted violence, persecution and conflict inside Myanmar’s Rakhine State continue, hopes for a return to Myanmar are fading, the UN Agency said. More refugees are faced with desperate choices, including dangerous and often deadly sea journeys in search of opportunities in the region. "2025 was the deadliest year on record for such voyages, with nearly 900 Rohingya refugees reported missing or dead in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal," said the UN official. Against this backdrop, the appeal focuses on the most critical humanitarian needs. Investment in resilience and self-reliance is crucial to preserving dignity and hope and reducing long-term dependence on aid. Until the conflict and violence stop, the international community must continue to stand in solidarity with refugees from Myanmar, including Rohingya refugees, and their host communities, providing humanitarian assistance and renewing efforts to allow voluntary, safe and dignified return, UNHCR said.

Bangladesh and Switzerland on Tuesday reaffirmed their shared commitment to further deepen bilateral economic cooperation and create a more enabling environment for the businesses of both countries. The two sides reiterated commitment to shared values - democracy, human rights, multilateralism, respect for international law and rules-based international order and exchanged views on their respective priorities, including the needs for stronger and sustained international attention for resolving the Rohingya crisis. Switzerland wants to promote innovative financing, entrepreneurship: Swiss Ambassador With growing annual bilateral trade and a strong presence of Swiss investors in Bangladesh, both sides at the sixth round of biennial bilateral political consultations at the State Guest House Padma recognised economic partnership as the key pillar of Bangladesh-Switzerland bilateral relations.

Bangladesh and the United Kingdom (UK) have discussed ways to expand trade and investment cooperation between the two countries, with particular emphasis on attracting greater British investment into Bangladesh's rapidly growing economy. Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun held a series of meetings in London on Monday with Sir Chris Bryant MP, UK Minister of State for Trade at the Department for Business and Trade; Baroness Rosie Winterton, UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh; and Oriel Petry, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs at Airbus UK and discussed issues of mutual interest. Acting High Commissioner to the UK Dr Nazrul Islam was present in the meetings. The meetings highlighted Bangladesh's ongoing economic transformation, investment-friendly reforms, and the significant opportunities available across sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, aviation, renewable energy, technology, and services. Pls add as last para Meanwhile, the British High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday said Minister for Trade, Sir Chris Bryant, met BIDA Executive Chairman Ashik Chowdhury at SXSW in London to reinforce the Bangladesh-UK partnership, boosting trade and investment in the aviation sector and driving growth and prosperity for both Bangladesh and the UK.