For Dr Muhammad Yunus, the United Nations is more than just a global platform—it is a "second home." Over the decades, he has been a frequent presence at the UN, advocating for social business, poverty eradication and inclusive development. The UN's endorsement of his work, including his role as a key voice in the fight against global inequality, solidifies his profound connection with this multilateral body. As head of Bangladesh's interim government, his return to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) stage feels like a natural continuation of his lifelong mission, bringing his vision for a more equitable world to the forefront of global diplomacy.

In recent years, Bangladesh's diplomatic efforts have often been characterised by symbolic gestures, such as "hilsa diplomacy," where the export of the prized fish to neighboring countries like India served as a goodwill token. Similarly, "mango diplomacy," which involved gifting the country's famous sweet mangoes to foreign dignitaries, aimed to foster friendly ties. While these gestures contribute to soft power, Bangladesh now needs to pivot toward more pragmatic and results-driven trade diplomacy.

This UNGA provides a well-timed platform for Bangladesh to rectify the recent borderline diplomatic demarche on alleged "megaphone diplomacy," where public pronouncements have been seen as taking precedence over bilateral diplomatic negotiations. Additionally, strategic engagement on its sidelines offers an opportunity for spot-on bilateral or multilateral discussions as to the emerging "exile diplomacy" or "asylum diplomacy." The talks could highlight the involvement of neighbouring power in facilitating exiled leaders to partake in a form of pre-empted "reverse megaphone diplomacy."