Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Thursday expressed hope that UNDP and the wider UN system would support Bangladesh in navigating the emerging challenges during the transition period until LDC graduation.

He appreciated UNDP's valuable contributions to Bangladesh's development journey.

Dr Khalilur noted that UNDP has played a significant role in supporting the country's progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The issues were discussed when Stephen Rodriques, the newly appointed Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to Bangladesh, presented his credentials to Dr Khalilur at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Welcoming Rodriques, the Foreign Minister congratulated him on his appointment and reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to working closely with UNDP in advancing shared development priorities.

Rodriques thanked the Foreign Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to further strengthening its cooperation with the government of Bangladesh.

He lauded Bangladesh's remarkable socio-economic achievements and its leadership in promoting sustainable development.

The new UNDP Representative also congratulated the Foreign Minister on his election as President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, describing the achievement as a reflection of Bangladesh's growing standing and constructive role in the international community.