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Bangladesh’s Khalilur Rahman Elected President of UN General Assembly’s 81st Session

publish time

02/06/2026

publish time

02/06/2026

NEW YORK, Jun 2: In the election held on 02 June 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters, candidate of Bangladesh Dr. Khalilur Rahman secured 99 votes from the 193 Member States of the United Nations, defeating the candidate of Cyprus, who received 91 votes. This landmark victory is a strong testament to the confidence and trust that the international community places in Bangladesh, as well as to the country’s growing diplomatic stature and constructive engagement within the multilateral system.

This achievement is not only the election of a Bangladeshi candidate to one of the most distinguished positions within the United Nations; it also constitutes a significant international recognition of Bangladesh’s longstanding commitment to multilateral diplomacy, international peace and security, sustainable development, and global cooperation.

The successful outcome reflects the convergence of three key factors: the visionary leadership and timely guidance of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the coordinated and intensive diplomatic efforts undertaken by Bangladesh within a limited timeframe, and the extensive experience, professional excellence, and international standing of Dr. Khalilur Rahman.

Bangladesh’s campaign has been spearheaded by Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, and the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, supported by Bangladesh’s missions and embassies worldwide.

The distinguished professional experience, diplomatic acumen, and proven leadership credentials of Bangladesh’s candidate contributed significantly to this landmark achievement. A major milestone in the campaign came on 13 May 2026, when Bangladesh’s candidate Dr. Khalilur Rahman participated in the Interactive Dialogue organized by the current President of the General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock. During the two-and-a-half-hour session, Dr. Rahman presented his vision statement and outlined his priorities and work plan for leading the General Assembly. The dialogue was widely praised within diplomatic circles.

Following these extensive engagements and consultations, nearly 30 Member States formally conveyed their support for Bangladesh’s candidacy, reinforcing growing confidence in the country’s vision and leadership.This broad-based endorsement placed Bangladesh on a clear and credible path towards electoral success.

Bangladesh's campaign has placed particular emphasis on strengthening effective multilateralism, safeguarding the interests of developing countries, enhancing international cooperation for climate-vulnerable states, advancing the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, supporting UN peacekeeping efforts, and amplifying the voice of the Global South. The campaign has been widely viewed as issue-based, inclusive, and grounded in principles.

The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh expresses its profound appreciation to the Member States of the United Nations for the trust and confidence reposed in Bangladesh through this historic election. The Government further reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and to working constructively with all Member States in advancing multilateralism, international peace and security, sustainable development, and effective global cooperation.