Photo: Bangladesh Consulate General, Toronto

DHAKA, April 3, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Consulate General in Toronto has hosted a reception for the consular corps marking the Independence anniversary, highlighting Dhaka's candidature for the UN General Assembly presidency and strengthening bilateral and multilateral engagement.

The reception was held at the Conference Hall, Atria-I on Thursday, bringing together members of the consular corps in Toronto, representatives of international business chambers, Canadian political leaders, including members of the Ontario Provincial Parliament and City Council, and other dignitaries, according to a message received here today. 

Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions for Ontario Vijay Thanigasalam attended the event as the guest of honour, while Member of the Ontario Provincial Parliament Aris Babikian was also present.

In his welcome address, Bangladesh Consul General in Toronto Shah Alom Khokon paid deep tribute to the martyrs, freedom fighters and women who made supreme sacrifices for the country's independence.

He also paid homage to the proclaimer of independence, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, for his historic declaration, and lauded former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her role in the struggle for democracy. 

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, the consul general said the celebration comes at a time of meaningful political transition in Bangladesh and reiterated the country's strong commitment to multilateralism.

He said Bangladesh has presented its candidature for the Presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the election scheduled for June 2026, adding that Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has been nominated for the position.

"This candidature reflects our deep commitment to multilateralism and our desire to contribute meaningfully to global governance at a critical time," he said, expressing hope for support from the international community.

He added that Bangladesh remains a leading voice for climate-vulnerable countries, a major contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, and continues to host over 1.3 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Canada Md Jashim Uddin attended the event as special guest.
In his remarks, he underscored the strong and enduring relations between Bangladesh and Canada, noting that bilateral ties have expanded across multiple sectors. 

He also highlighted growing economic cooperation, including increasing Canadian investments in Bangladesh's manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, as well as rising trade volumes.

The high commissioner acknowledged the contribution of the Bangladeshi diaspora in Canada, describing them as a vital bridge strengthening people-to-people connectivity between the two countries.

Speaking on the occasion, the guest of honour appreciated the Bangladeshi community in Canada for their resilience and unity.

Earlier, on March 26, the consulate general hosted a separate reception for the Bangladesh community in the Greater Toronto Area marking Independence and National Day.