|| Online Desk: Bangladesh has sought enhanced support from the United Nations to ensure a smooth, sustainable and irreversible transition from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category while maintaining momentum on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, adviser to the prime minister on the ministries of Finance and Planning, raised Bangladesh’s concerns and priorities during a series of high-level meetings at the UN Headquarters with senior officials of key UN agencies.In separate discussions with UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, and UNDP Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific Kanni Wignaraja, Titumir called for stronger international cooperation during Bangladesh’s LDC transition period.The adviser highlighted Bangladesh’s request for a three-year extension of the LDC graduation preparatory period, saying the additional time would help the country safeguard macroeconomic stability, effectively implement its Smooth Transition Strategy and achieve a sustainable graduation process.“An extended preparatory period would provide Bangladesh with the necessary space to strengthen economic resilience, manage transition-related challenges and ensure that graduation becomes a lasting development milestone,” Titumir said during the meetings.He emphasized that Bangladesh’s development strategy is being guided by institutional reform, accountable governance and people-centred growth. According to him, the government’s democratic mandate has reinforced its commitment to advancing reforms aimed at building stronger institutions and improving public welfare.Titumir also presented the government’s 3R Strategy — Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction for Acceleration — as a key roadmap for restoring economic stability and creating a foundation for long-term, inclusive development.The UN officials expressed continued support for Bangladesh’s development priorities and LDC transition efforts.Li Junhua reaffirmed UN DESA’s commitment to working with Bangladesh throughout its development journey and transition process. He also praised the country’s initiative for establishing a Universal Social Security Protection System.UNESCAP Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana reiterated the organization’s support for Bangladesh’s LDC transition, regional connectivity initiatives and efforts to strengthen climate resilience.Meanwhile, Kanni Wignaraja reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in areas including democratic governance, institutional reform and sustainable development.The discussions come at a crucial time as Bangladesh prepares for the challenges and opportunities associated with LDC graduation, with the government seeking greater global cooperation to protect economic gains and ensure a resilient post-graduation future.