State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Saturday stressed that predictable international support, affordable financing and continued market access are essential for countries like Bangladesh in the context of their LDC graduation aspirations.

She said an effective UN and stronger international solidarity are essential to addressing today’s global challenges and building a peaceful, prosperous and just world,.

The State Minister made the remarks while celebrating the UN Day organised by Zonta International, District 25 and Zonta Clubs of Bangladesh at Crowne Plaza Dhaka.

Reiterating the government’s resolve to advance multilateralism under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the State Minister reaffirmed Bangladesh’s renewed commitment to the UN’s three pillars of development, peace and security and human rights.

She highlighted Bangladesh’s longstanding contributions to the UN, including in peacekeeping and peacebuilding.

She further shed light on Bangladesh’s role in promoting dialogue, building consensus and strengthening international cooperation through its constructive engagement in the ongoing 81st UN General Assembly, presided over by Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman.

The State Minister underscored Bangladesh’s continued efforts to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Highlighting women’s empowerment, the State Minister lauded Bangladeshi women’s contributions to UN peacekeeping and stressed the need to address gender-based violence, digital harassment and barriers to equal opportunities.

She emphasised the role of initiatives such as the recently launched ‘Dhaka Dialogue’ in advancing the UN Women, Peace and Security agenda.

The State Minister also called for stronger UN engagement to ensure the early and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their ancestral homes in Myanmar.

Among others, Lulzim Pllana, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Bangladesh attended the event as the special guest.

Members of the diplomatic community, representatives of Zonta International and Zonta Clubs of Bangladesh and other guests also joined the celebration.