Societies stronger, more resilient in Bangladesh when everyone can play meaningful role: Guterres
He lauds the youths for their commitment to shaping the future of Bangladesh
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres yesterday (15 March) said societies are "stronger and more resilient" in Bangladesh and around the world when everyone can play a "meaningful role" in political, economic and social life.
The UN chief thanked the representatives of civil society for sharing their views with him.
Guterres commended the youth of Bangladesh for their leadership and commitment to shaping the future of their country.
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"Their dedication to equality, justice and peace is inspiring, and contributes to the global call by the youth for action towards social, economic and climate justice," said the UN secretary general.
Guterres will leave Dhaka at 9:55am on Sunday (16 March), Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB.
High Representative to the Chief Adviser for Rohingya crisis and matters of priority Khalilur Rahman is scheduled to see him off at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
Guterres joined a roundtable discussion on reform proposals participated by representatives of political parties, National Consensus Building Commission and other stakeholders.
UN Under Secretary General Rabab Fatima, Bangladesh's Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and representatives of other political parties, Prof Ali Riaz, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Badiul Alam Majumdar and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis were, among others, present at the dialogue held at Hotel InterContinental.
Guterres also joined another dialogue with youths and had a meeting with members of civil society.
Earlier in the morning, UN Secretary General Guterres officially opened a new "UN House in Bangladesh" in the city.
Industries, Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan; Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis were, among others, present.
The UN chief visited the new UN Common Premises to view the 50th anniversary photo exhibition and joined the official UN flag-raising.
The visit followed a meeting with UN Country Team Bangladesh.
Guterres and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain joined a joint press briefing before joining Iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.
At the media briefing, Guterres recognised people's hopes for a future of greater democracy, justice and prosperity in Bangladesh as the country undergoes a 'significant transition' under the leadeship of Chief Adviser Dr Yunus.
"This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh and the international community must play its part in supporting your efforts toward a just, inclusive and prosperous future," he said.
As the country undergoes important reforms and transitions, Guterres assured that the UN stands ready to assist in fostering peace, national dialogue, trust and healing.
"You can count on the UN to be your steadfast partner, working alongside the people of Bangladesh to help build a sustainable and equitable future for all," said the UN chief.
