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BD seeks Pakistan’s support for FM’s UNGA presidency bid

By Our Correspondent
April 01, 2026
BD Foreign Minister and renowned intellectual Dr Khalilur Rahman. —TheNews/File
BD Foreign Minister and renowned intellectual Dr Khalilur Rahman. —TheNews/File

ISLAMABAD: Bangladesh has sought Pakistan’s support for its Foreign Minister and renowned intellectual Dr Khalilur Rahman, who is contesting the election for President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Bangladesh High Commissioner in Islamabad, Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan, made the plea while addressing a well-attended reception he hosted to celebrate the 55th Independence and National Day of Bangladesh at a five-star hotel. Corps Commander Rawalpindi, Lt General Aamir Ahsan Nawaz, was among the guests, while Federal Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain was the chief guest.

The presence of senior Pakistani leaders, diplomats, and dignitaries reflected a shared commitment—both in Islamabad and Dhaka—to strengthening bilateral ties and highlighted the important role of the two brotherly countries in the region.

High Commissioner Hussain Khan emphasised the aspirations of both nations to further strengthen relations and enhance mutual cooperation. He assured that Bangladesh remains committed to deepening collaboration with Pakistan in areas including direct air and maritime connectivity, trade and commerce, education, tourism, culture, industry, healthcare, agriculture, and energy. He added that growing friendship between Pakistan and Bangladesh, on both bilateral and multilateral fronts, presents opportunities for mutual benefit. Expressing gratitude to the Pakistani government and people, he said: “I take this opportunity to express the determination to work together to further strengthen the bond of friendship between our two countries in the coming years.” He wished the people of both nations continued friendship, peace, progress, and prosperity.

Referring to Bangladesh’s broader foreign policy, Hussain Khan said the current government, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is focused on advancing development and safeguarding national interests through stronger ties with friendly countries. He highlighted that Bangladesh is currently the 35th largest economy in the world and has made significant progress in poverty alleviation, employment generation, agriculture, education, healthcare, and attracting foreign investment.

In his remarks, Rana Tanvir Hussain congratulated the government and people of Bangladesh, praising the country’s socio-economic achievements and underscoring the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations for the benefit of both peoples.