Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to visit the United States in September to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), with a possible visit to San Francisco, California, according to diplomatic and party sources.

The planned visit has generated considerable enthusiasm among leaders and activists of the BNP as well as members of the Bangladeshi diaspora in the United States.

The 81st session of the UN General Assembly will be presided over by Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Dr Khalilur Rahman, who has been elected President of the General Assembly. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to address the Assembly during the session under his presidency, marking what is being described as a rare and significant moment for Bangladesh.

According to diplomatic and party sources, the Prime Minister is likely to arrive in New York on 21 September. Besides attending the UN General Assembly, he is expected to hold bilateral meetings with several heads of state and government. His address to the General Assembly is tentatively scheduled for 24 September.

Leaders of the BNP’s US chapter said a civic reception is planned in New York on 25 September following the Prime Minister’s official engagements. He is also expected to travel to San Francisco between 26 and 28 September to attend a special programme.

Preparations for the possible San Francisco visit have already begun in California. The Bay Area, one of the world’s leading centres for technology and innovation, is home to a large number of Bangladeshi entrepreneurs, engineers and technology professionals.

Sources said the visit is intended to strengthen engagement with expatriate Bangladeshis working in the technology sector and encourage their greater involvement in Bangladesh’s economic development and innovation ecosystem. A number of events, including a civic reception, are being planned to welcome the Prime Minister.

California BNP President Badrul Alam Chowdhury Shiplu said there was widespread excitement among party leaders and supporters over the Prime Minister’s prospective visit.

“Preparations have already begun to make the programme a success. Most importantly, we believe this event could become a milestone for Bangladesh’s economy by strengthening links with Bangladeshi professionals and entrepreneurs based in the United States,” he said.

According to the overall itinerary under discussion, the Prime Minister’s US tour is expected to last between eight and 10 days. Officials are currently finalising the schedule and other arrangements for the visit.