Dhaka, June 1 -- Bangladesh has expressed optimism over the election of Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman as president of the United Nations General Assembly.

On Monday, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Bangladesh is a "very strong contender".

"...we are in a very good position in this election. Our foreign minister has extensive experience and a long career at the United Nations.

"So we are very hopeful that Bangladesh will win, and I think many new doors will open for Bangladesh, for the people of Bangladesh. It will be a moment of pride for Bangladesh."

Voting will begin at 8pm Bangladesh time on Tuesday, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

According to information on the UN website, the preside...