Tarique Rahman to outline Bangladesh’s vision and people’s aspirations at UNGA

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will present Bangladesh’s vision for the future, national interests and the aspirations of its people at the United Nations General Assembly, with a particular focus on inclusive development, said PMO Spokesperson Mahdi Amin.

“Carrying the patriotism, emotions, sentiments and aspirations of the people, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will tell the global community what Bangladesh’s vision for the future should be, how the country’s interests can be protected and how inclusive development can be ensured,” he said.

Mahdi Amin made the remarks at a press conference held at the lobby of the Hyatt Grand Central New York hotel around 9:00pm local time after the prime minister arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly.

He said Tarique Rahman’s visit was historic as he arrived in New York as the head of a representative government elected through the people’s vote after a long period.

Referring to Bangladesh’s political history, Mahdi Amin said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia had previously presented the country’s position, vision and plans before the international community.

“Continuing that historical legacy, their son, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, will uphold the spirit of patriotism and present Bangladesh’s interests and rights on the global stage,” he said.

Mahdi Amin said the prime minister is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Thursday.

Describing the visit as a brief one, the spokesperson said Tarique Rahman had moved away from the usual practice of lengthy foreign trips and would spend only a short period in New York.

“Excluding the two days spent travelling, he will stay in New York for only four working days and participate in several bilateral and multilateral meetings,” he said.

On the size of the delegation, Mahdi Amin said the prime minister had also departed from the traditional practice by travelling with a small team.

“Officially, there are only 35 people here. Apart from them, there are only essential media, security and personal staff. Prime Minister’s wife Dr Zubaida Rahman is also accompanying him,” he said.

He said the prime minister’s official engagements would begin Tuesday with his attendance at the opening session at the UN Headquarters at 9:00am, alongside heads of state and government from different countries.

Earlier in the morning, he is scheduled to attend a “Welcome Breakfast Reception” hosted at the invitation of the UN Secretary-General.

PM’s Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibly, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman and Bangladesh’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations A K M Wahiduzzaman were also present at the press conference.