Mr. Chair,
My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iran on behalf of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
The rule of law is essential for sustainable peace, protection of human rights and overall social and economic development in any society. It is also a critical factor for the achievement of 2030 Agenda. Bangladesh is deeply committed to uphold the rule of law at the local and international level for a just and peaceful world.
We take note of the comprehensive report of the Secretary General A/75/284 on the assistance by the United Nations for strengthening the rule of law. We appreciate the support provided by UN to Bangladesh in this regard including training aimed at extending legal aid services to poor and vulnerable communities.
Mr. Chair,
Combating corruption is an important catalyst for the establishment of Rule of Law. Bangladesh subscribes to the global effort in this regard. We have signed and ratified the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2007. We believe, the Special Session of the General Assembly against Corruption, scheduled to be held on 2-4 June 2021 in New York, will provide an excellent opportunity to consider measures to prevent and combat corruption and strengthen international cooperation. We expect that the Political Declaration of the upcoming Special Session will be an action-oriented outcome.
Mr. Chair,
Bangladesh strongly believes that corruption is a great obstacle to the overall development in any society. We are committed to prevent and combat corruption in all spheres of our national lives. As part of our national SDG achievement strategy, we have taken measures to prevent and significantly reduce illicit financial flows, and money laundering. The Money Laundering Prevention Act 2012 and the relevant Rules have been enacted in this regard.
During the past few years, the present Government has undertaken much needed reforms in administration, judiciary and electoral systems in Bangladesh and also strengthened the Anti-Corruption Commission, that acts as the watchdog against all types of institutional and personal corruption. The commission has introduced number of innovative initiatives to address complaints, which include, public hearing, toll-free hotline service and complaint box at each of the local administration offices. Every year Bangladesh observes the International Anti-Corruption Day on 09 December to raise public awareness of corruption.
Mr. Chair,
We thank the Secretary General for his statement on corruption in the context of COVID-19. During pandemic, when the public resources are scarce, it is all the more important to prevent corruption and utilize the limited resources for the welfare of the people who have been severely hurt by the pandemic.
Mr. Chair,
Corruption is a global challenge, and we must act together to address this challenge. Let me make a few points in this regard:
First, strong national effort would the first line of defense to prevent and combat corruption at the national level.
Second, strengthening international cooperation including seamless exchange of information, intelligence-sharing, mutual legal assistance remain most critical.
Third, national capacity building including strengthening the independent watchdogs and training of personnel of the developing countries are imperative to the implementation of various obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption.
Finally, we have to renew our political commitment to implement UN Convention against corruption.
Mr. Chair,
To conclude, I would like to reiterate the unwavering commitment of Bangladesh to work with the United Nations and Member States to prevent and combat corruption at the local and international level.
I thank you.