June 25, 1972

BANGLADESH WILL SEEK UN MEMBERSHIP IN THE UPCOMING GENERAL ASSEMBLY SESSION

A spokesperson of the foreign ministry informs that Bangladesh will apply for UN membership in the upcoming session of the General Assembly which will begin in the third week of September. According to UN rules, Bangladesh will submit its application 35 days before commencement of the session.

Diplomatic sources observe that Bangladesh's inclusion in the UN is almost certain as four out of five permanent members of the UN Security Council have already accorded recognition to Bangladesh. Moreover, six out of 10 non-permanent members of the Security Council have also recognised Bangladesh and some have assured Bangladesh of their support for the country's candidacy in the United Nations.

The observers hope that China, a permanent member of the UN, might abstain from exercising its veto power against Bangladesh's application as the country did not stand in the way of Bangladesh's membership in other UN bodies like World Health Organization and International Labour Organization.

CABINET MEETS

The cabinet meets today. The cabinet meeting presided over by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is understood to have discussed several issues including  the flood situation in Sylhet, ongoing drive against anti-social elements and relief and rehabilitation work. Bangabandhu will visit the affected areas in Sylhet tomorrow.

COORDINATION BODY FOR CITY DEVELOPMENT

The government has decided to establish an office to coordinate all the development works of the capital. City governance bodies like WASA and Dhaka Improvement Trust will work in coordination with this capital development authority. The new government body will also be entrusted with the task of preparing a long-term development plan for Dhaka.

HAITI RECOGNISES BANGLADESH

Republic of Haiti accords recognition to Bangladesh. So far 79 countries have recognised the newly-independent Bangladesh.

SOURCES: June 26, 1972 issue of Purbodesh.