Bangladesh has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development, UN peacekeeping, and multilateral cooperation during high-level talks at the United Nations.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam solidified these pledges during a meeting with Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, at the UN Headquarters in New York on Thursday.

According to a Foreign Ministry press release issued this morning, the State Minister outlined the core priorities of Bangladesh's newly elected government.

She placed significant emphasis on "restoring public trust, strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing transparency and accountability, improving public service delivery, and upholding human rights and the rule of law."

In addition to institutional reforms, Shama highlighted the government’s social safety net initiatives, specifically the "Family Card" and "Farmers Card" programmes.

These measures are designed to mitigate socio-economic vulnerabilities among the country’s low-income and agricultural communities.

Addressing global security, the State Minister underscored Bangladesh's position as one of the world's leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations.

She stressed the critical importance of "preserving peacekeeping mandates despite ongoing financial constraints within the United Nations" and advocated for a greater role for women and youth in post-conflict peacebuilding efforts.

On the protracted Rohingya crisis, Shama reiterated that the "safe, voluntary and sustainable repatriation of forcibly displaced Rohingya people to Myanmar remains the only viable long-term solution."

She urged the global community to maintain its engagement and support to resolve the humanitarian situation.

In response, Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari highly appreciated Bangladesh’s longstanding and consistent contribution to UN peacekeeping missions.

He specifically commended the nation’s proactive role in advancing the participation of women in global peace and security initiatives.