PM takes up health, agriculture, Rohingya issues in UN visit: Mahdi Amin

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman held a series of meetings on health, agriculture, the Rohingya crisis, climate change, regional stability and bilateral relations during the second day of his four-day visit to New York for the 81st UN General Assembly, Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin said Wednesday (September 23).

Briefing reporters at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Amin said discussions with the Gates Foundation focused on using technology to improve agricultural productivity, strengthening healthcare cooperation and developing Bangladesh’s capacity to produce vaccines.

The Rohingya crisis also featured prominently in the visit, with Bangladesh and The Gambia jointly hosting a high-level side event at the United Nations. Amin said more than 1.2 million Rohingyas are currently sheltering in Bangladesh, while declining international assistance is increasing pressure on the country.

He said Bangladesh is seeking international support for the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas, along with improved security in Myanmar and accountability for persecution. Dhaka is also maintaining bilateral and multilateral engagement with China, India and other partners on the issue.

A major economic development during the visit was Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ agreement with Boeing to purchase 11 additional aircraft. The order includes five 787-10 Dreamliners and six 737-8 jets, taking Biman’s planned Boeing purchases to 25 aircraft following its 14-aircraft order earlier this year.

Amin said the additional aircraft are part of plans to expand Biman’s fleet and launch new international routes. He added that Bangladesh could also discuss future aircraft purchases with Airbus depending on its requirements. Boeing representatives later held a courtesy meeting with the prime minister.

The prime minister also met his Croatian counterpart to discuss trade, investment and migration and held talks with Iran’s president. On the Middle East conflict, Amin said Bangladesh supports a peaceful resolution and dialogue, citing concerns over energy security, trade and the impact on Bangladeshi expatriates.

Climate issues were also raised, including climate finance, river and canal dredging, tree plantation, renewable energy and greater use of electric vehicles.

Tarique Rahman is scheduled to deliver his maiden address to the UN General Assembly in Bangla on Thursday.