Participation of Bangladesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Tariq Rahman is a historic event: Cabinet
The Cabinet has formally lauded Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for his leadership during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, characterizing the mission as a historic milestone that has significantly elevated Bangladesh’s stature on the global stage. During a meeting held at the Secretariat on Monday, the Cabinet extended its official congratulations to the Prime Minister and the accompanying delegation for their successful diplomatic engagement.
Cabinet officials highlighted the unique historical significance of the Prime Minister’s participation, noting that it marks a rare achievement in global political history. With this address, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, his father the late President Ziaur Rahman—who spoke at the 11th special session in 1980—and his mother former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia—who addressed the 48th session in 1993—have become the only family in the world to have three members represent their nation at the United Nations General Assembly.
During his four-day visit, the Prime Minister participated in 32 international programs and high-level meetings. Beyond his address to the General Assembly, he engaged in seven high-level discussions, held bilateral meetings with representatives from 11 countries, and conducted sessions with the leadership of 10 international organizations. The Cabinet emphasized that these efforts have effectively projected the government’s national commitments and expectations while fostering stronger bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
In addition to reviewing the diplomatic mission, the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, approved the draft of the Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026. The amendment reinstates the provision requiring tax returns to be filed within 15 days of the conclusion of each tax period, replacing the previous regulation that allowed for returns to be filed every three tax periods.
Under the revised policy, if the 15th day falls on a public holiday, the deadline is extended to the next working day. Furthermore, the ordinance stipulates that government, semi-government, and autonomous bodies, as well as banks, insurance companies, and entities filing nil returns, are permitted to submit their tax returns within 20 days of the conclusion of the tax period.