Prof Yunus, Tarique begin crucial talks in London

NN Online:
A high-level political meeting between Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman began in London on Friday, raising hopes for a breakthrough amid Bangladesh’s ongoing political crisis.

The meeting commenced at 2:00 PM Bangladesh time at the Dorchester Hotel, according to Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. It is scheduled to last two hours and is expected to be a one-on-one session, though it may be expanded if both parties agree.

Tensions surrounding the timing and structure of the upcoming general election have set the stage for this much-anticipated dialogue. The meeting has attracted widespread attention, both at home and abroad.

National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman and Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the venue around 1:50 PM. Outside the hotel, several hundred BNP UK Chapter members gathered to greet him.

Observers are closely watching the developments, viewing the meeting as a potential turning point in Bangladesh’s political future. Key issues expected to be discussed include:

The election timeline and electoral reforms

The July Charter and justice for victims of the July–August mass uprising

Plans for a peaceful transfer of power

Ratification of interim government decisions

A dignified exit strategy for the interim administration

Tarique Rahman’s possible return to Bangladesh

“This is going to be a very important meeting for Bangladesh ahead of the election,” said Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. “One is the head of the interim government, and the other leads the country’s largest political party.”