Bangladesh undergoing major transformation ahead of historic election: Yunus

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus today (12 November) conveyed to a visiting Canadian parliamentary delegation that Bangladesh is now preparing for the national election, which will be a historic moment for the nation.

"You've come at a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a significant transformation, an uprising led by young people. Now we are preparing for the election, which will be a historic moment for the nation," the chief adviser said.

He made the remarks when a seven-member Canadian parliamentary delegation led by Senator Salma Ataullahjan called on him at the state guest house, Jamuna.

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral trade cooperation and address the Rohingya crisis.

The chief adviser briefed the delegation on the ongoing reforms and preparations for the upcoming February election.

He also thanked Canada for its steadfast support for the Rohingya community.

"Eight years have passed. The return of the Rohingya people to their homeland is the only viable solution. There is no alternative. Around 1.2 million people are living here. Thousands of children have been born and are growing up without clarity about their citizenship or future, and they are angry. Now we are facing financial cuts, which make this crisis even graver," he said.

Senator Salma Ataullahjan said she would make a statement on the Rohingya crisis and reaffirmed Canada's commitment to supporting the displaced community, according to the Chief Adviser's press wing.

"I have long spoken about the Rohingya issue. The concern is serious. The world must focus on ensuring their peace and security," she said, thanking Professor Yunus for his continued efforts on the matter.

The delegation also included MP Salma Zahid (Scarborough Centre–Don Valley East, Liberal), Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities and member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, Mahmuda Khan, Global CEO of Human Concern International (HCI), Masum Mahbub, CEO of Human Concern USA (HCUSA), Ahmad Attia, CEO of Gestalt Communications, and Usama Khan, CEO of Islamic Relief Canada.

MP Sameer Zuberi noted Canada's interest in diversifying trade relations with Bangladesh.

"We are working to diversify our trade. Bangladesh and Canada share strong people-to-people ties. Our Prime Minister recently visited Asia with the goal of expanding and diversifying trade partnerships," he said.

During the meeting, both sides discussed potential trade opportunities in the garments, agriculture, and other sectors, emphasising the scope for expanding Canadian investment in Bangladesh's growing export industries.

National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman and Senior Secretary on SDGs Affairs Lamiya Morshed we're present at the meeting.