Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus met with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at UN headquarters on Thursday, extending his “total solidarity” with Bangladesh’s Interim Government. Guterres affirmed the UN’s readiness to assist with the country’s ongoing reforms and transitional processes.
During their discussion, the two leaders addressed pressing issues, including the Rohingya refugee crisis and the global challenges posed by climate change. Guterres emphasized that the UN country team is eager to provide support, highlighting the relevance of the newly adopted UN Pact of the Future for Bangladesh and its potential for concessional funding.
The Secretary-General commended Bangladesh’s peacekeeping contributions, stating, “They are very important for us.” Prof. Yunus took the opportunity to reflect on the recent student-led mass uprising that challenged Sheikh Hasina’s government, remarking, “I am here because young people gave their lives for a new Bangladesh.”
The meeting also covered the impacts of climate change on Bangladesh’s 170 million citizens, along with the UN’s ongoing fact-finding mission investigating atrocities related to the uprising.
Guterres expressed gratitude for the strong partnership between the UN and Bangladesh, recognizing the country’s significant role in UN peacekeeping efforts.