Bangladesh has called for urgent global efforts to address the growing financing gap for sustainable development and ensure a fairer international financial system, while also seeking a smooth transition from its Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

The appeal was made by Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury during the general debate of the ECOSOC Financing for Development Forum 2026 held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Thursday, said a press release received here on Friday.

Highlighting current global challenges, the envoy pointed to geopolitical tensions, declining official development assistance, climate-related shocks, trade restrictions and energy uncertainties as key factors limiting the policy space for developing nations.

In this context, Bangladesh requested an extension of its LDC graduation preparatory period to ensure a sustainable and seamless transition.

Chowdhury also outlined the country’s ongoing efforts toward political and economic recovery, noting initiatives to maintain macroeconomic stability, rebuild business confidence, strengthen the banking sector, boost investment and expand support for vulnerable populations.

He further emphasized the need to reduce debt servicing burdens, avoid inefficient infrastructure-related borrowing and channel foreign direct investment into productive, job-creating sectors along with technology transfer.

The envoy concluded by calling for a more inclusive and representative global financial system, greater climate justice, effective measures to address loss and damage, and the return of illicitly transferred assets.