Member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have pledged to launch a global campaign in support of Bangladesh’s bid for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman announced on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport early Saturday following his return from Saudi Arabia, Dr Rahman confirmed that Bangladesh has secured "full and unequivocal backing" from the OIC bloc.

The Foreign Minister noted that while the candidacy was updated following the recent change in government, the diplomatic push is now in high gear.

"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," Dr. Rahman said.

He added that extensive strategy sessions were held with OIC partners in Jeddah to mobilize international support ahead of the June 2 election at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The Foreign Minister revealed that Palestine recently withdrew its own candidacy, leaving the race for the 2026-2027 term primarily between Bangladesh and Cyprus.

Under the UN's regional rotation system, the presidency for the 81st session is reserved for the Asia-Pacific Group.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Humayun Kabir, who accompanied the Minister, described the diplomatic mission as "fruitful and productive," noting that the feedback from OIC nations has been highly encouraging.

"We have received very positive feedback. We will conduct a detailed assessment at an appropriate stage, but the support so far has been strong," he remarked.

The 81st session of the UNGA is set to open on September 8, 2026. If successful, this would mark the second time Bangladesh has held the prestigious seat, following the 1986-87 term of then-Foreign Minister Humayun Rashid Chowdhury.

Addressing regional concerns, Dr. Rahman expressed deep anxiety over the "open war" between SAARC members Afghanistan and Pakistan, calling the escalation "very sad."

He maintained that Dhaka is currently opting for cautious, private diplomacy over public statements. "We are trying, in our own way, to help our friends understand that such conflicts do not serve anyone's interests," he said.

The Foreign Minister also reaffirmed that Bangladesh’s stance on the Palestinian issue remains "firm and unchanged."

He noted that OIC leaders expressed confidence in Bangladesh’s path toward political stability and development under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.