CA hosts banquet in honour of Bhutanese PM

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today (22 November) hosted a state banquet at a city hotel in honour of visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, who arrived this morning on a two-day state visit.

The chief adviser exchanged pleasantries with invited guests and inquired about their wellbeing.

Advisers of the interim government and political leaders also joined the dinner, followed by a cultural performance.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Adviser Professor Yunus highlighted the deep historical and diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Bhutan, describing the relationship as one founded on longstanding solidarity, cultural harmony and mutual respect.

Welcoming the Bhutanese prime minister, the chief adviser said, "By a strange coincidence, he was the first dignitary I met at an international conference… we immediately became very close friends. He is an amazing person. We are so happy to welcome you."

Professor Yunus praised Tobgay as "a dedicated leader" with "a broad global view" and said that "the whole of Bhutan is a very good friend of Bangladesh".

He recalled Bhutan's historic decision to recognise Bangladesh as an independent state and said the gesture "remains timeless" and continues to guide bilateral relations more than five decades later.

The chief adviser emphasised the shared history and culture between the two countries, noting that relations are also rooted in "deep reverence for numerous Bengali monks and Buddhist scholars" whose influence continues to shape Bhutan–Bangladesh ties.

He said both countries share a commitment to "human dignity, collective good and the welfare of our people".

"Your visit comes at a significant time for Bangladesh, as we navigate a historic moment in national democracy. Strengthening democratic governance, revitalising institutions and ensuring inclusive, equitable and just development remain our priorities," Professor Yunus said.

"As Bangladesh starts a new journey, we anticipate the understanding and support of our neighbours and close friends," he added.

Referring to bilateral discussions earlier in the day, the chief adviser said the two sides discussed cooperation in trade, sub-regional energy, education, tourism and connectivity. He said the meeting would open new avenues for elevating the partnership for the benefit of both peoples.

Commending Bhutan's development philosophy inspired by the fourth king, he said it reminds the world that economic progress must remain connected to human well-being.

Bangladesh shares similar aspirations—including zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration and zero unemployment through entrepreneurship—Professor Yunus said, adding that Bangladesh remains committed to working closely with regional partners like Bhutan to share knowledge.

He highly commended Bhutan for maintaining its status as the world's first carbon-negative nation.

"We also deeply appreciate Bhutan's initiatives at COP, including the formation of alliances," the chief adviser said, adding, "Let us hope the alliance of Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal continues to pursue climate justice for economies in transition, in line with the recent ICC judgment."

He called for a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, describing the friendship as "a bond of history built on trust and a shared vision for a brighter future". He expressed hope that the Bhutanese delegation's visit would be "productive, pleasant and memorable", concluding with: "Long live Bangladesh–Bhutan friendship."

On the occasion, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay recalled his previous visits to Dhaka in 2023, 2020 and 2014.

"Each time I return, I am reminded of the warmth of our friendship, the richness of your culture—which we have witnessed here in all its glory—and the enduring goodwill that has always defined relations between our two countries," he said.

Conveying his appreciation to the chief adviser for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation, Tobgay said, "We are deeply touched by the Bangla graciousness and warm hospitality, which reflect the generous spirit of Bangladesh."

Praising Professor Yunus, the Bhutanese leader said, "As a Nobel laureate, your life's work has earned you a distinguished place in global history."

Tobgay highlighted Yunus' "pioneering contributions" to development thinking and said he had been reading about the "three zeros—zero net carbon, zero poverty and zero unemployment", calling them "valuable lessons for all of us".

"This evening, I would also like to acknowledge your continued service to the people of Bangladesh in your role as the Chief Adviser," he said, adding, "We recognise the immense responsibilities you shoulder at this pivotal juncture in the nation's journey."

Noting that relations between Bhutan and Bangladesh are rooted in history, friendship and mutual trust, the Bhutanese prime minister said cooperation—whether in human resource development, trade, connectivity or other areas—has steadily deepened.

Referring to the two memoranda of understanding signed earlier in the day, Tobgay said they would further strengthen bilateral partnership.

"I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish in the years ahead. Today, we celebrate our past achievements and look forward with optimism and determination," he said.

"Together, we are poised to embark on new chapters of cooperation, innovation and progress. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of our friendship," the Bhutanese prime minister added.