Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman to Lead UNGA 81st Session in New York

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman is scheduled to visit New York, United States, to undertake his official responsibilities as the President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to the itinerary provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, his official stay in New York will span a significant period, beginning on August 31 and concluding on October 21.

The procedural timeline for the international gathering indicates that the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly is set to officially commence on September 8. Following the initial opening proceedings, the crucial high-level general debate will officially begin on September 22, highlighted by the addresses of various global heads of state and government.

This diplomatic milestone follows a successful electoral contest held earlier this year on June 2 at the United Nations headquarters. During the election, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman secured victory by defeating the special envoy of the Foreign Minister of Cyprus, who lost the race by eight votes.

The upcoming tenure marks a notable return for Bangladesh to the presidency of the global body after a gap of one year, and significantly, it revives a historic legacy established over four decades ago. Historical records from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs note that Humayun Rashid Chowdhury previously served as the President of the United Nations General Assembly during its 41st session back in 1986.