Zakir Hossain from Dhaka
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to visit the United States in September to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), marking his first major international appearance as head of government.
According to diplomatic and party sources, Tarique is expected to arrive in New York on September 21 and address the UN General Assembly on September 24. The visit is likely to include bilateral meetings with foreign leaders and engagements with the Bangladeshi diaspora in the US.
The UNGA session will be particularly significant for Bangladesh as Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman is scheduled to take over as president of the General Assembly. Tarique is expected to highlight Bangladesh’s priorities on global cooperation and development during his address.
After New York, Tarique may travel to San Francisco from September 26 to 28 for a special programme with Bangladeshi expatriates, entrepreneurs and technology professionals. Preparations for the possible visit have already begun in California.
The proposed US tour is expected to last around eight to ten days, though the final itinerary is still being prepared. The visit is also expected to focus on strengthening economic and technological cooperation between Bangladesh and the US.
The visit comes at a time when Bangladesh is trying to expand diplomatic engagement with major partners after a major political transition in 2024. Tarique’s participation at the UN will be closely watched as it marks his government’s first major appearance on the global stage.