Bangladesh has renewed its commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development and multilateral engagement during high level discussions at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam conveyed the message in a meeting on Thursday with Khaled Khiari, United Nations Assistant Secretary General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, according to a Foreign Ministry press release issued on Friday.

During the talks, Shama outlined the policy priorities of Bangladesh’s newly elected government, highlighting efforts to rebuild public confidence in state institutions, reinforce democratic practices and improve transparency and accountability.

She also stressed the importance of strengthening public service delivery and safeguarding human rights and the rule of law.

The state minister drew attention to key social protection programmes introduced by the government, including the Family Card and Farmers Card initiatives, which are designed to support low income households and agricultural communities facing economic challenges.

Emphasising Bangladesh’s status as one of the largest troop contributing countries to UN peacekeeping operations, she called for sustained support for peacekeeping mandates despite financial pressures within the United Nations system. She also underscored the need to expand the role of women and young people in post conflict peacebuilding.

Addressing the Rohingya crisis, Shama reiterated that the safe, voluntary and sustainable return of forcibly displaced Rohingya to Myanmar remains the only durable solution, and urged continued international cooperation to achieve that goal.

Khaled Khiari praised Bangladesh for its consistent contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and acknowledged its leadership in promoting women’s participation in peace and security efforts.