CA Yunus sees vast economic prospects in wider regional cooperation
The interim government, which assumed office on 8 August, under Yunus, is set to conclude its term with the swearing-in of a new government tomorrow.
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus tonight (16 February) renewed his emphasis on the economic opportunities in the region, underscoring the vast growth potential of broader regional cooperation encompassing Nepal, Bhutan, and northeastern India.
In a televised address to the nation ahead of tomorrow's (17 February) handover of power, Yunus outlined Bangladesh's maritime access as a strategic asset.
"Our open sea is not merely a geographical boundary; it is a gateway to the global economy," he said, highlighting connectivity as central to the country's next phase of development.
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Yunus said that through economic zones, trade agreements, and access to duty-free markets, a strong foundation will be established for the region to become a global manufacturing hub.
"We have come a long way in signing agreements with leading international port management companies to bring our ports' efficiency up to international standards. If we cannot increase efficiency, we will lag behind in economic achievements," he said.
The chief adviser said they have been able to firmly restore three fundamental foundations of Bangladesh's sovereignty: national interests and the country's dignity in foreign policy.
"Bangladesh is no longer a country with a submissive foreign policy or one dependent on the instructions and advice of other countries. Today's Bangladesh is confident, active, and responsible in protecting its independent interests," he said.
Yunus further said they are committed to building relations with all countries based on mutual respect and shared interests.
At the same time, he said Bangladesh has established itself as a state capable of taking necessary strategic decisions for the future while maintaining balance.
He added that the Rohingya crisis has created a serious and long-term strain on national security, regional stability, and the economy.
"Unfortunately, for a long time no effective and coordinated international initiative was visible to resolve the crisis. Since assuming office, we have been able to bring this issue, which had become moribund in the international arena, back to the centre of global attention," Yunus said.
Recognising the importance of the crisis, he said, the United Nations has stood by Bangladesh.
"The UN Secretary-General himself visited Bangladesh and pledged to help find a sustainable solution to the problem. At my request, a special conference on the Rohingya issue was held at the UN," the chief adviser said.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation at 9:15pm tonight, marking his final address as chief adviser before the transfer of power.
Earlier, he delivered a farewell address to officers and staff at the Chief Adviser's Office, marking the end of the interim administration's tenure.
The interim government, which assumed office on 8 August, under Prof Yunus, is set to conclude its term with the swearing-in of a new government tomorrow.
The BNP-led alliance is poised to form the next government after securing a landslide victory in Thursday's national election, winning 212 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance secured 77 seats.
