The foreign minister and the UNCTAD chief discussed global economic risks

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan have held talks on global economic risks arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict, cautioning that it could negatively impact trade, energy markets and developing economies.

The discussion took place when Grynspan called on the foreign minister at Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York on Monday, according to a message received today.

During the meeting, both sides noted that the conflict poses serious threats to the global economy, with disruptions in international trade and volatility in energy markets already affecting developing countries, particularly the poorest nations.

They observed that these challenges are undermining years of development gains in vulnerable economies.

The two leaders urged all parties concerned to refrain from further escalation and to work towards an urgent diplomatic resolution.

Grynspan, a former vice president of Costa Rica, is a candidate for the post of United Nations secretary-general, while Rahman is contesting for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

They also exchanged views on their respective candidacies.

Ambassador Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, Bangladesh’s permanent representative to the United Nations, was present at the meeting.