Bangladesh remains committed to UN goals, says Iftekhar

Foreign Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury said Friday Bangladesh remained unswervingly committed to the goals of the United Nations (UN) and expressed the hope that the UN would stand by the country's efforts to realise its dream, reports UNB.
He made the remarks at a function commemorating the UN Day marking the 63rd anniversary of the organisation at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.
Dr Wahiduddin Mahmood and UN Country Coordinator Renata Lok Dessallien also spoke at the function.
Describing the present day UN the 'Parliament of Mankind', Dr Iftekhar said Bangladesh, and the world, saw the UN as "a protector of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as keeper and builder of peace, as partner in development, and as ally in the fight against poverty, hunger and disease."
The foreign adviser recalled that upon his request as the chairman of the LDCs, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon had set up a task force to address food security issue. He also appreciated the fact that the task force had already submitted a "comprehensive report for action".
Dr Iftekhar said Bangladeshi soldiers and policemen were serving the cause of peace in distant trouble spots all over the world.
He also emphasised Bangladesh's leadership role in social and economic issues including climate change, poverty alleviation, women' s empowerment, and micro-credit.
"We have overcome many impediments. We are today on the threshold of great changes," he said adding, "Elections are due on December 18 which, hopefully, will provide Bangladesh a democracy that will be durable, stable and sustainable."
The foreign adviser said UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon would soon visit Bangladesh and expressed the hope that "The distinguished visitor will also rejoice with Bangladeshis at their success."
He was confident that "the UN will stand by Bangladesh as we strive to realise the fruition of our dreams, with the path of our destiny lit by the torch of hope."
Renata Lok Dessallien said that this was a crucial year in the life of the United Nations. "We can see more clearly than ever that the threats of the 21st century spare no one," she said.