UNDP Resident Representative Stephen Rodriques met Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman at the Foreign Ministry. Photo : Ministry

DHAKA, Aug 6, 2026 (BSS) – Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman today expressed hope that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the wider UN system would support Bangladesh in addressing the challenges of its transition towards graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category.

The foreign minister made the call when newly appointed UNDP Resident Representative to Bangladesh Stephen Rodriques presented his credentials to him at the foreign ministry here, according to a press release. 

Welcoming Rodriques, Khalilur congratulated him on his appointment and reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to working closely with UNDP in advancing shared development priorities.

The foreign minister highly appreciated UNDP's longstanding contributions to Bangladesh's development journey, noting that the organisation has played a significant role in supporting the country's progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Rodriques reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to further strengthening its partnership with the Government of Bangladesh.

He praised Bangladesh's remarkable socio-economic achievements and its leadership in promoting sustainable development.
The UNDP resident representative also congratulated the foreign minister on his election as President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), describing the achievement as a reflection of Bangladesh's growing international standing and constructive role in the global community.