The ongoing conflict in the Middle East poses a significant risk to the global economy, warned Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
She said the crisis is driving volatility in global trade and energy markets, with developing and low-income countries facing the most severe consequences.
Grynspan made the remarks during a courtesy call on Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Dr Khalilur Rahman, at the country’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York on Monday, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the meeting, both sides discussed the current global economic outlook in the context of the Middle East conflict. They agreed that continued instability could undermine global growth and economic resilience.
They noted that disruptions in international trade and fluctuations in energy prices are already exerting pressure on developing economies. Poorer nations, in particular, risk losing years of development gains due to prolonged instability.
Both leaders underscored the need for restraint and urged all parties involved to avoid further escalation. They emphasized the importance of pursuing swift diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
The meeting also touched on their respective candidacies in the United Nations system. Grynspan, a former Vice President of Costa Rica, is a candidate for the post of UN Secretary-General. Meanwhile, Dr. Rahman is contesting for the presidency of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.
Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury, was present at the meeting.
JP/MHK