CA Yunus Departs for New York to Attend 79th UNGA

This year’s assembly will enable Yunus to articulate economic strategies and areas where the international community can assist in stabilizing and strengthening Bangladesh’s economy. The high-level General Debate begins tomorrow.

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain provided details during a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy, noting that Yunus will remain in New York for three days, returning on September 27. He will travel on a commercial flight and deliver his address on that date. Joining Hossain at the briefing were Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Director General of the East Asia and Pacific Wing, Toufique Hasan.

Hossain emphasized the significant political changes occurring in Bangladesh and the government’s intent to clarify these developments to the international community. He underscored that Yunus is a respected figure globally, and his statements will be taken seriously by other nations.

When questioned about a potential meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hossain noted that it is unlikely, as Modi is scheduled to arrive earlier. However, a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will take place on the sidelines of the UNGA.

During his visit, Yunus is expected to hold bilateral discussions with the prime ministers of the Netherlands, Pakistan, and Nepal, as well as meetings with the president of the European Union, the U.S. Secretary of State, the UN Secretary-General, the UN Human Rights Chief, the World Bank President, and the USAID Administrator.

Hossain indicated that reforms and human rights will be focal points of the discussions, reaffirming the government’s commitment to further advancements in human rights.

In a notable shift from previous years, the delegation accompanying Yunus will consist of 57 members, primarily security personnel, significantly reduced from earlier delegations that often exceeded 100 to 300 members. The delegation will not utilize a chartered flight, aiming to limit expenses and ensuring that only those directly involved in the UNGA are present.

This year’s General Debate theme is “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations.”

Additionally, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s membership in the United Nations, a high-level reception will be held on September 24, with the Chief Adviser in attendance. Hossain noted that this session holds particular significance for Bangladesh, as it celebrates five decades of engagement with the UN, with expected attendance from heads of delegations, senior UN officials, and leaders of various organizations.