Bangladesh has expressed interest in deepening cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to combat drug trafficking, corruption, and organized crime more effectively.

During a meeting in Dhaka, the newly appointed Regional Representative of UNODC for South Asia, Kristian Hölge, presented his credentials to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. According to Dhaka Tribune, Adviser Hossain highlighted the importance of finalizing a comprehensive cooperation framework between the Government of Bangladesh and UNODC, aiming for practical results in tackling drug abuse and cross-border crime.

He also called for the establishment of a permanent UNODC country office in Dhaka to support the organization’s expanding operations and to strengthen coordination on law enforcement and capacity-building initiatives. The adviser emphasized that effective collaboration with UNODC would complement Bangladesh’s broader efforts to handle issues linked to refugee management, particularly the Rohingya crisis.

Kristian Hölge reaffirmed UNODC’s commitment to working closely with Bangladeshi authorities in areas such as counterterrorism, anti-corruption, and human trafficking. He expressed optimism that the partnership would help strengthen institutional capacities and foster regional stability.

The meeting reflects Dhaka’s ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation with international agencies to address transnational challenges and support good governance.