NN Online:
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today instructed relevant officials to take all necessary precautionary measures to ensure that no sector is adversely affected by Bangladesh’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
“We’ve already made the decision. Now we must move at full speed,” Prof Yunus was quoted by Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam during a media briefing following a high-level meeting with experts on LDC graduation held at the Chief Adviser’s Office.
Speaking at the Foreign Service Academy, Alam said the nearly two-hour meeting focused on strategies to maximize the benefits of LDC graduation, reaffirming Bangladesh’s confidence in a smooth and successful transition.
Prof Yunus emphasized that Bangladesh has the potential to emerge as a regional manufacturing and economic hub and discussed how the country could strengthen its position post-graduation.
He also called for the formation of a dedicated team to consistently monitor the transition process, stressing that “this is a critical phase that requires constant vigilance.”
Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, also present at the meeting, said all key issues were reviewed and a list of precautionary steps was prepared.
Highlighting success stories of other, relatively weaker nations, Dr Chowdhury noted, “We must have the confidence.” He assured that while no major problems are anticipated, comprehensive safeguards will be put in place.
He added that efforts are underway to establish a robust trade negotiation body, as the country currently lacks such an institution.He added that efforts are underway to establish a robust trade negotiation body, as the country currently lacks such an institution.
Responding to a media query, Dr Chowdhury said that although economic diplomacy is ongoing, not all details can be disclosed due to the sensitive nature of the work. “With every challenge comes opportunity,” he said.
He urged the public and stakeholders to view the graduation process positively, rather than with hesitation or fear.
Bangladesh is scheduled to officially graduate from LDC status to that of a developing country in November 2026.
