Brazil backs Bangladesh's UNGA presidency bid, proposes strategic dialogue
Bangladesh is contesting against Cyprus
Brazil has pledged support for Bangladesh's candidacy for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and proposed establishing a regular high-level strategic dialogue between the two countries, marking a renewed push to deepen bilateral ties.
The developments came during a meeting yesterday (15 May) at the Palácio do Planalto in Brasília between Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir and Celso Amorim, chief adviser to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
During the meeting, Amorim conveyed a "highly desired message" from President Lula that Brazil would formally support Bangladesh's candidature in the UNGA election scheduled for 2 June 2026 in New York, where Bangladesh is contesting against Cyprus.
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Kabir expressed gratitude for the support and said Bangladesh's candidature is guided by the vision, "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All."
Amorim also proposed the formation of a "tête-à-tête strategic forum" to institutionalise regular high-level political dialogue. Kabir welcomed the proposal, saying it would strengthen trust and long-term policy coordination.
The two sides discussed expanding trade and economic cooperation, noting that bilateral trade has reached nearly $4 billion but remains below potential. Kabir highlighted opportunities to boost Bangladeshi exports such as garments, pharmaceuticals, jute goods and ceramics, while continuing imports of cotton, soybeans and industrial raw materials from Brazil.
On multilateral issues, Kabir reiterated Bangladesh's aspiration to join BRICS and sought Brazil's support. In response, Amorim said he would discuss the matter with President Lula and make efforts regarding Bangladesh's inclusion.
Kabir also said, "The current government will never believe in a submissive or surrender-oriented foreign policy like the previous regime. Bangladesh's diplomacy will be self-respecting, active and based on national interests."
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation across sectors including agriculture, technology, energy and innovation, and emphasised the importance of a fair, inclusive and multipolar global order.
