Bangladesh has sought Russia’s support for its candidacy for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly for the 2026–2027 term. The request was made by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam during a courtesy meeting with Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Grigorievich Khokhin at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, March 15, 2026.

During the meeting, both sides discussed strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation on various international issues. The Russian ambassador congratulated the state minister on assuming office and expressed optimism about the future of Bangladesh-Russia relations. Shama Obaed Islam highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two countries and noted expanding cooperation in energy, trade and investment, science and technology, education, skilled manpower migration, and people-to-people contact.

Both parties expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further cooperation in areas of mutual interest.