Diplomatic Desk:
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid has reiterated Bangladesh’s strong commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development, peacebuilding and multilateral cooperation. She outlined Bangladesh’s position and commitment on these issues in a meeting with Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, Department of Political, Peacebuilding and Peacekeeping Operations, in New York on Thursday (14 May 2026).
In the meeting, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs highlighted the priorities of the newly elected government of Bangladesh and mentioned the government’s commitment to restoring public trust, increasing the capacity and acceptability of institutions, ensuring transparency and accountability, improving the quality of public services and upholding human rights and the rule of law. He further mentioned that the government is implementing various initiatives including the “Family Card” and “Farmers Card” programs to address the socio-economic risks and vulnerabilities of the affected communities.
He highlighted the important role of Bangladesh in UN peacekeeping operations, stressed the need to maintain the peacekeeping mandate despite the ongoing liquidity crisis, and mentioned the need to increase the participation of women and youth in post-conflict situations.
Regarding the Rohingya crisis, he said that the repatriation of the displaced Rohingyas in Myanmar is the only effective long-term solution to this crisis. He sought the continued cooperation and support of the international community until their return to their home country is ensured.
Assistant Secretary-General Khyari highly appreciated Bangladesh’s long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and Bangladesh’s role in increasing the participation of women in peace and security initiatives.
