Will keep promoting democracy, rule of law
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Hasina said, “People’s trust in the effectiveness and legitimacy of the international organisation is gradually being eroded. As a result, our overall progress towards a peaceful and prosperous common future is faced with threats.”
She said the impacts of the pandemic, the effects of an existential climate crisis, and the wide ramifications of the war in Ukraine affecting global food, financial, and energy securities have greatly impeded the achievement of SDGs in developing countries.
The PM deeply appreciated the UN secretary-general’s initiative to convene the “Summit of the Future” next year.
“We must make all efforts to collectively address the common challenges of humanity to secure a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for all. And, for that, we must choose unity, solidarity, and multilateralism over fragmentation, insularity and isolation.”
ROHINGYA CRISIS
Hasina said Bangladesh had sheltered the Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds, but the situation has become really unbearable for the country.
“Uncertainty over repatriation has led to widespread frustration. This situation can potentially fuel radicalisation. If the problem persists, it may affect the security and stability of the entire region, and beyond.
“The displaced Rohingyas want to return to their own country, Myanmar, and live a peaceful life there. Let’s bring those destitute people hope of a brighter future in their own land and thereby foster safety and stability in the region.”
About climate change, the PM said Bangladesh is one of the most climatically-vulnerable countries although it contributes to less than 0.47 percent of global emissions.
“The adverse effects of climate pose serious threats to the security and economic prosperity of our present and future generations. Urgent, bold and ambitious collective actions are needed to address these threats.”
The PM said the development needs of the climate-vulnerable countries must be considered. “We also demand an urgent operationalisation of the loss and damage funds as agreed in COP27.”
Hasina said Bangladesh will officially graduate to a developing country in 2026.
“I believe the ongoing multiple global crises will not derail our graduation trajectory. Yet, we reiterate our call to the development partners and the advanced economies to continue to support us during our transition to ease the impact of our graduation.”
The PM said prices of food, energy and commodities have risen globally, weakening Bangladesh’s efforts to recover from the pandemic. “As an energy-and food-importing country, our import bills have shot up significantly, impacting on our foreign currency reserves.”
About the Palestine issue, Hasina said Bangladesh will continue its efforts to realise the rights of the people of Palestine. “Bangladesh will stand by Palestine.”
The PM said Bangladesh’s commitment to global peace and security is well manifested in its contribution to UN peacekeeping operations. She said 188,000 UN peacekeepers from Bangladesh have earned reputation for their professional excellence and impeccable performance.
Hasina said Bangladesh remains concerned at the continued prevalence of terrorist threats which are now taking new shapes due to misuse of ICT.
She said the recent incident of burning copies of the Holy Quran has shaken the conscience of Bangladesh.
“Such acts of perversion not only hurt religious sentiments of the Muslims, but also instigate violence and harm peaceful co-existence of people of various faiths and beliefs,” she added.