Desk Report:
On the very first day of her visit to New York to attend the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman participated in ten significant engagements. Mahdi Amin, Advisor to the Prime Minister, stated that these programs prioritized the interests of the Bangladeshi people and the enhancement of the nation’s prestige on the global stage.
He shared this information during a press conference held at the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the UN in New York on Tuesday (September 22, 2026) at 8:00 PM local time.
Reviewing the day’s agenda, Mahdi Amin noted that the Prime Minister ensured that Bangladesh’s interests were given paramount importance, the welfare of the people was placed foremost, and the country’s stature as a nation led by an elected head of government was further elevated on the global platform.
He mentioned that issues concerning Bangladesh’s interests featured prominently in the Prime Minister’s various meetings and discussions. Emphasis was also placed on strengthening Bangladesh’s position in the international arena and highlighting the aspirations of its people within global discourse.
Mahdi Amin added that the Rohingya crisis received special attention during the Prime Minister’s engagements on the first day.
He stated that the Prime Minister held meetings with Julie Bishop, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Myanmar, and Barham Salih, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. These discussions underscored the need for international cooperation to create an environment conducive to the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh.
The necessity for an effective role by the international community regarding the safe and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas—who have long been sheltered in Bangladesh—also emerged as a key topic of discussion.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to deliver her maiden address on behalf of Bangladesh during the General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly session on September 24. The speech is expected to articulate Bangladesh’s national interests, the aspirations of its people, and the country’s stance on various international issues.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir, Shama Obaid Islam, Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibli, Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon, and Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the UN Irene Khan were present at the press conference.
