Bangladesh supports UN reform to face global challenges

Bangladesh is firmly committed to multilateralism and supports meaningful reform of the United Nations to face global challenges. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Humayun Kabir said this in a message on United Nations Day yesterday. He said the government led by Prime Minister Mr. Tarique Rahman is determined to strengthen democratic governance, uphold human rights and the rule of law, and build accountable institutions.

The State Minister said the election of Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister as President of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly shows the government’s renewed commitment to multilateral work. Mr. Humayun Kabir said Bangladesh wants a more representative, open and effective United Nations. He said Bangladesh supports the needed steps, including meaningful reform of the Security Council, so that the world body can play an effective role in line with present day realities.

He said that in a time of geopolitical tension, armed conflict, humanitarian crises and growing inequality, multilateralism is not just an option but a must. He called on all to renew their respect for dialogue, peaceful settlement of disputes, the sovereign equality of states and international law. Speaking about Bangladesh’s role in world peace, the State Minister said the country’s partnership with the United Nations rests on real action and solidarity. Bangladesh is one of the top contributors to UN peacekeeping, and Bangladeshi peacekeepers keep serving in tough conditions in many parts of the world.

He also repeated Bangladesh’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in peacekeeping and in decisions on peace and security. Mr. Humayun Kabir said Bangladesh’s partnership with the United Nations is wide, and it covers sustainable development, stronger disaster response, poverty reduction, gender equality and humanitarian work. He noted that Bangladesh continues to shelter more than 12 lakh Rohingya people who were forced out of Myanmar. He asked the international community to keep supporting their quick and lasting return.

The State Minister said the efforts of the international community to carry out the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development must go along with support in finance, technology transfer and capacity building. This support must reach developing countries, least developed countries and countries at high risk from climate change. Mr. Humayun Kabir said United Nations Day reminds everyone of the lasting relevance of the UN Charter and the value of joint action on shared global challenges. He said, “Let us work together to restore trust, end divisions and build a world where peace, justice and prosperity are shared by all.”