World leaders, organisations hail Khalilur's UNGA victory

Congratulations poured in from world leaders, foreign ministers and international organisations following the election of Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), describing the victory as a recognition of Bangladesh's growing global stature and commitment to multilateralism, report agencies.
The United States, India, China, Pakistan, the Maldives and the African Union (AU) were among those who welcomed Dr Khalilur's election to one of the most prestigious positions in the United Nations.
Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, former chief adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, has congratulated the Foreign Minister.
"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly," he said in a statement on Tuesday night.
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman describing his UNGA presidency as a landmark recognition of Bangladesh's diplomatic strength and global standing.
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen congratulated Dr Khalilur on his election and expressed his best wishes for the successful conduct of the upcoming UNGA session. "Congratulations Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on your election as President of the 81st United Nations General Assembly," the US envoy said in a message in Dhaka.
Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also extended his congratulations, calling the election a significant achievement.
"Congratulations to FM Dr Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh on his election as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly," Jaishankar said in a message posted on his verified X account.
China described the election as a reflection of the international community's confidence in Bangladesh and its constructive role in advancing multilateralism and international cooperation.
In a congratulatory message, the Chinese side said it hoped Dr Khalilur would unite all member states, uphold the principle of sovereign equality, defend international rule of law, promote dialogue and consultation, and strengthen the foundations of multilateralism.
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar congratulated Dr Khalilur, expressing confidence in his leadership.
"Heartiest felicitations to my dear brother, H.E. Dr Khalilur Rahman, Foreign Minister of Bangladesh on his election as President of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly," Dar said in a post on X. Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu described the election as a proud moment for Bangladesh and the wider region."I wish you every success in this important role," President Muizzu said in a congratulatory message. The African Union also congratulated Dr Khalilur, calling the election a major milestone for Bangladesh.