Run for UNGA presidency presents challenge but Dhaka enjoys OIC support: FM

Explaining the ground behind the change in Bangladesh's candidature, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman said early today (28 February) the country enjoys strong backing from member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), but faces a challenge due to the limited time available to campaign for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

"The candidate has been changed following the change in government. One of our key challenges is that Cyprus has been campaigning throughout the year, whereas we have barely three months, or even less, in hand," he told reporters at Dhaka airport upon his return from Saudi Arabia.

Khalilur said discussions were held with OIC partners to assess the situation and strategise ways to secure Bangladesh's victory.

"We have received their full and unequivocal support," he said.

The minister said Bangladesh's friends within the OIC have assured Dhaka of active campaigning in favour of its candidature.

He said as anticipated, Palestine withdrew its candidature a few days ago.

With Palestine stepping aside, Bangladesh will now contest the 2026-2027 term against Cyprus.

Humayun Kabir, adviser to the prime minister on foreign affairs, described the feedback from OIC countries as highly encouraging and strong.

"We have received very positive responses. We will conduct a detailed assessment at an appropriate stage, but the support so far has been strong. The visit was both fruitful and productive," he said.

Earlier, the interim government had nominated former Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain as Bangladesh's candidate.

Following the change in government, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman nominated Khalilur for the position.

Bangladesh had initially floated its candidature ahead of Palestine.

The election for the president of the 81st session of the UNGA is scheduled to take place on 2 June at the UN Headquarters in New York, US, in accordance with Rule 30 of the Rules of Procedure.

Under the established regional rotation system, the president for the 81st session will be elected from the Asia-Pacific Group.

The president of the 80th session of the UNGA, Annalena Baerbock, will convene informal interactive dialogues with the candidates in May.

Bangladesh last held the prestigious position in 1986-87, when then-foreign minister Humayun Rasheed Chowdhury was elected president of the 41st General Assembly. Four decades later, the country is seeking to reclaim the post.

The 81st session of the UNGA will open on 8 September, with the high-level General Debate commencing on 22 September.

Leaders attending the recent executive meeting of the OIC expressed confidence that Bangladesh will swiftly achieve political stability and accelerated development under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

They also reiterated their full support for Bangladesh's candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the UNGA.