Bangladesh has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development, UN peacekeeping and multilateral cooperation, while highlighting the priorities of the newly elected government during a meeting with senior United Nations officials.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam made the commitment during a meeting with Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Thursday, said a Foreign Ministry press release here this morning.
During the meeting, the state minister outlined the key priorities of Bangladesh's newly elected government, placing emphasis on restoring public trust, strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing transparency and accountability, improving public service delivery, and upholding human rights and the rule of law.
She also highlighted the government's social protection initiatives, including the "Family Card" and "Farmers Card" programmes, aimed at addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities among low-income and agricultural communities.
Underscoring Bangladesh's position as one of the world's leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, Shama stressed the importance of preserving peacekeeping mandates despite ongoing financial constraints within the United Nations and called for greater participation of women and youth in post-conflict peacebuilding efforts.
On the Rohingya issue, she reiterated that the safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingya people to Myanmar remains the only viable long-term solution, urging continued international engagement and support.
Khiari highly appreciated Bangladesh's longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping missions and commended its role in advancing women's participation in peace and security initiatives.
BSS/AM
