UNCTAD Chief Rebeca Grynspan called on Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman in New York. Photo : Collected

DHAKA, March 17, 2026 (BSS) - Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan have discussed global economic risks stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict, warning of adverse impacts on trade, energy markets and developing economies.

The discussion was taken place when Grynspan called on the foreign minister at the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York on Monday, according to a message received here today.  

During the meeting, both sides observed that the ongoing conflict poses significant risks to the global economy, with disruptions in international trade and volatility in energy markets already affecting developing countries, particularly the poorest nations.

They noted that such challenges are reversing years of development progress in vulnerable economies.

The two leaders urged all concerned parties to avoid further escalation of the conflict and to pursue an urgent diplomatic solution.

Grynspan, a former Vice President of Costa Rica, is a candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, while Foreign Minister Rahman is contesting for the Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

They also discussed their respective candidatures during the meeting.

Ambassador Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, was present.