Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh has requested the full support and cooperation of the United Nations in its efforts to recover stolen assets and combat financial crimes.
During a meeting with UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua in the UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Ambassador Md. Jashim Uddin emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing issues of tax evasion and illicit financial flows, which pose significant challenges to the nation’s economic stability.
During discussions, Ambassador Jashim Uddin highlighted the importance of international backing as Bangladesh prepares for its graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, a press release said.
He stressed the need for continued support throughout both the transition and post-graduation phases, ensuring that the country can maintain its development momentum.
He further emphasised the importance of the UN’s technical and policy support in advancing the government’s reform agenda, particularly in enhancing accountability and transparency, building on the five decades of partnership between the UN and Bangladesh.
Acknowledging the broader challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Foreign Secretary pointed to the impact of the global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts around the world.
He urged for stronger cooperation from the UN System, particularly through development initiatives facilitated by the Resident Coordinator’s Office.
He expressed appreciation for the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) being designated as the implementing body for the recently adopted Bangladesh-led UN General Assembly resolution, which declares May 6 as Rural Development Day.
This recognition underscores Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing rural development and sustainable practices.