Bangladesh Permanent Mission, Geneva

Bangladesh’s unanimous election as Vice-President of International Labour Conference: a diplomatic milestone

Bangladesh has achieved a significant diplomatic milestone with its unanimous election as a Vice-President of the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) 2026. International Labour Conference is the premier global forum on labour and employment issues convened by the International Labour Organization annually. Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh Nahida Sobhan assumed the role Vice-President alongside President of the Conference H.E. Juan Castillo, Minister of Labour and Social Security of Uruguay, and two other Vice Presidents, Ms. Kristen Kaufman from United States and Mr. Gerardo Martínez from Argentina.

The election was endorsed by delegates representing 187 countries, reflecting the confidence and trust of the international community in Bangladesh’s constructive leadership in global labour governance. This prestigious position underscores Bangladesh’s new Government's commitment to promoting democratization of ILO, decent work, advancing social justice and protecting labour rights. It reflects the international recognition of Bangladesh’s contribution to advancing multilateral cooperation in addressing the evolving challenges facing the global workforce.
As Vice-President of the Conference, Bangladesh will contribute to guiding the proceedings of the ILC and facilitating consensus-building among Member States and social partners on key policy issues affecting workers and workplaces worldwide.

The International Labour Conference, often referred to as the “world parliament of labour,” is the highest decision-making body of the ILO. It brings together governments, workers’ organizations, and employers’ representatives from across the world to deliberate on critical issues shaping the future of work. This year’s Conference has drawn approximately 5,000 delegates, making it the largest global gathering dedicated to labour, employment, and social justice.

Migration is a powerful adaptation strategy in addressing climate-displacement, one of the key drivers of human mobility in climate-vulnerable countries. Ambassador and Permanent Representative Nahida Sobhan met with IOM Director General Amy Pope and they discussed the nexus between climate change, migration and sustainable development.

Ambassador Sobhan congratulated DG Pope on the successful completion of the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) and the publication of the World Migration Report 2026. She expressed hope that these initiatives would help harness migration as a catalyst for sustainable development, particularly for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and climate-vulnerable nations. She also mentioned that Bangladesh stands ready to contribute to the World Migration Report.

The meeting also explored ways in which IOM can further support the well-being and resilience of the Rohingyas (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) and the host communities in Bangladesh.

As climate impacts intensify, strengthening international cooperation on migration, resilience, and human dignity remains more important than ever.

On the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of peacekeepers serving under the UN flag to protect lives and uphold global peace.

This year’s theme, “Invest in Peace,” underscores that UN Peacekeeping remains one of the international community’s most effective tools for responding to conflict - supporting political solutions, protecting civilians, monitoring ceasefires, enabling humanitarian assistance, and preventing escalation despite growing global challenges and reduced resources. The day was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2002 to honor peacekeepers and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of peace.

For Bangladesh, UN peacekeeping is both a national pride and a global responsibility. Out of total 69 peace missions since 1948, 1,67,108 peacekeepers from Bangladesh have successfully participated in 54 missions in 40 different countries. Currently Bangladesh is one of the leading troop contributors with 6,359 peacekeepers (source: Bangladesh Military and Armed Forces Division). As one of the world’s leading troop-contributing countries, Bangladesh remains steadfast in its commitment to international peace, humanitarian values, and multilateral cooperation.

At the same time, greater investment in pro-active diplomacy, security building and conflict prevention is essential to reducing the need for prolonged peacekeeping operations and building sustainable peace worldwide.

Let us strengthen our collective commitment to peace through partnership, prevention, and shared responsibility for a safer and more secure future for all.

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Photo: UN Website

Ambassador Nahida Sobhan presents her credentials to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV as the First Female Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Holy See
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Ambassador Nahida Sobhan, concurrently accredited to the Holy See, presented her Letters of Credence to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV as the First Female Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Holy See at a solemn ceremony held at the Apostolic Palace, Secretariat of State at the Vatican City on 21 May 2026. The ceremony was conducted with due ceremonial and protocol courtesies extended by the Holy See. Ambassador Sobhan earlier made history by serving as the ambassador to Jordan, the first female envoy of Bangladesh in the Middle East.

M. Jahirul Quayum, Economic Minister, and Sabuj Ahmed, Counsellor of the Mission, accompanied Ambassador Sobhan at the credential presentation ceremony. The presentation of credentials was followed by an exchange of greetings between His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and the Ambassador along with her delegation.

Prior to the presentation of credentials, Ambassador Sobhan held meetings with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State; His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations; His Excellency Archbishop Paolo Rudelli, Substitute of the Secretariat of State; and Monsignor Javier Fernández, Chief of Protocol of the Holy See.

During these meetings, the Ambassador underscored the high importance Bangladesh attaches to its relations with the Holy See. She recalled the historic visits of Pope Francis to Bangladesh in 2017 and Pope John Paul II in 1986, describing both visits as significant milestones in bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the Holy See.

Ambassador Sobhan also highlighted Bangladesh’s steadfast commitment to communal harmony and peaceful coexistence among people of all faiths and communities. She appreciated the Holy See’s continued advocacy for global peace, actions against climate change and humanitarian causes, including its support for the forcibly displaced Rohingyas, and encouraged continued efforts in promoting peace, justice, and the humane treatment of migrants and vulnerable populations worldwide.

During the bilateral meetings, the Holy See dignitaries expressed their expectation that engagement between Bangladesh and the Holy See would continue to deepen through regular exchanges and visits. They also commended Bangladesh for its humanitarian support extended to the Rohingya population.

The series of engagements reflected the mutual respect, goodwill, and shared commitment of Bangladesh and the Holy See to further strengthening bilateral relations.

Bangladesh Permanent Mission in Geneva pays deep tribute to National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on his 127th birth anniversary, honouring a timeless voice of resistance, humanity, and artistic brilliance.

Kazi Nazrul Islam remains a towering figure in Bangladesh’s literature and culture whose powerful writings inspired generations in the struggle against oppression and injustice. Through his poetry, songs, and essays, he championed equality, human dignity, communal harmony, and the spirit of rebellion against all forms of tyranny. His works continue to resonate across borders and generations, reflecting universal values of justice, freedom, and compassion.

As the National Poet of Bangladesh, Nazrul’s legacy is a cornerstone of our cultural identity. His message of unity, co-existence and resilience is especially relevant in today’s world, reminding us of the enduring power of literature and art to inspire positive change.

On this occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values he embodied and ensuring that his contributions continue to inspire future generations.

Photo: Daily Observer

Today, on International Tea Day, we celebrate far more than a beverage - we celebrate a timeless tradition, a source of livelihood, a symbol of hospitality, and an enduring part of our cultural heritage.

Tea has connected people across generations, communities, and cultures for centuries. Recognized by the United Nations, International Tea Day highlights the profound cultural, social, and economic importance of tea while honoring the millions of people around the world whose dedication sustains this industry.

In Bangladesh, tea is deeply woven into the fabric of national life. From the rolling green tea gardens of Sylhet, Srimangal, Chattogram, and the northern tea estates to the familiar cups shared in homes, offices, and roadside tea stalls, tea represents warmth, conversation, friendship, and social connection. It is both a daily ritual and a cherished expression of our hospitality and identity.

Bangladesh proudly stands among the world’s recognized tea-producing nations. Since the beginning of tea cultivation in the 19th century, the tea industry has evolved into an important pillar of our economy and agricultural heritage. Today, it contributes significantly to employment generation, rural development, exports, and the livelihoods of countless families and communities across the country.

On this occasion, we pay our deepest respect and gratitude to the tea workers whose hard work, resilience, and commitment form the backbone of this proud industry. Their invaluable contribution to the nation, economy, and heritage deserves lasting recognition and appreciation.

As we mark International Tea Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to preserving the rich heritage of tea, promoting sustainable tea cultivation, supporting the welfare of tea workers, and celebrating the vibrant tea culture that continues to bring people together every day.

Happy International Tea Day.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh
Photo: Bangladesh Tea Board

Bangladesh complete a 2-0 Test series win over Pakistan - a monumental achievement for Bangladeshi cricket. From securing first-ever Test victories to now winning a Test series against Pakistan, this team continues to inspire with its resilience, belief, and fearless cricket on the biggest stage.

Bangladesh Permanent Mission in Geneva congratulates the Tigers for yet another unforgettable chapter in Bangladesh cricket history! 💚❤️

A proud and emotional day for Bangladesh cricket fans everywhere. 👏🔥


Bangladesh Cricket : The TigersMinistry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh