Bangladesh has called for urgent global action to address the widening financing gap for the Sustainable Development Goals and to establish a more equitable international financial system while seeking support for a smooth transition from least developed country status.
The appeal was made by Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, during the general debate of the Economic and Social Council Financing for Development Forum 2026 at UN Headquarters in New York on Thursday, according to a press release issued on Friday.
He said geopolitical conflicts, declining official development assistance, climate shocks, trade barriers and energy uncertainties were reducing the policy space for developing countries. In this context, he said Bangladesh was seeking an extension of its preparatory period for graduation from least-developed country status to ensure a stable and sustainable transition.
Chowdhury also highlighted Bangladesh’s recent progress in political and economic recovery. He said the government was focusing on maintaining macroeconomic stability, restoring business confidence, strengthening the banking sector, encouraging investment and expanding direct support for vulnerable groups.
He stressed the need to lower debt servicing costs and avoid inefficient infrastructure-related borrowing. He also called for greater foreign direct investment in productive sectors that create employment, alongside increased access to technology transfer.
The envoy further urged reforms to make the global financial system more representative and equitable. He called for climate justice, effective action on loss and damage, and the return of stolen assets to their rightful owners.
