Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday called for increased collaboration with the United Kingdom to enhance Bangladesh’s healthcare system, highlighting critical reforms and global cooperation in the health sector.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Baroness Rosie Winterton, the UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh, at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, with Baroness Winterton lauding the “long and trusted history” between the UK and Bangladesh, reports BSS.
“We have a long history together, and we are pleased to see the direction of reforms being undertaken,” she said.
Prof Yunus noted that Bangladesh is undergoing a period of transformation. “It’s a very critical time for us. We are focused on rebuilding institutions and reshaping priorities,” he said.
Emphasising the urgent need for a skilled healthcare workforce, the Chief Adviser pointed to a national shortage of nurses. “But nursing is not just a national concern-it’s a global necessity. We want to train more nurses not only for Bangladesh but also for the world,” he added.
He invited the UK’s support in revitalising the country’s under-resourced health sector. “Government-run health programmes are nearly non-functional. This is where the UK can play a vital role,” he said.
Prof Yunus also called for UK advocacy in lifting patent protections on vaccines to ensure affordable global access through a social business model. “Another promising area is pharmaceuticals,” he said, urging broader cooperation.
Beyond healthcare, the discussions extended to strategic sectors including education, the textile industry, defence, and aviation. “We welcome UK support in improving our education system, modernising our textile sector, and exploring new areas of collaboration in defence and aviation,” Prof Yunus said.
Both leaders expressed interest in enhanced training, technology exchange, and long-term partnerships across these sectors.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive development, Prof Yunus stated, “We always prioritise women’s participation in every sector. Empowering women is central to our development strategy.”
Baroness Winterton expressed the UK government’s strong support for Bangladesh’s ongoing reform agenda. She also met with Ali Riaz, head of the country’s constitutional reform initiative.
