Staff Reporter :
The Chief Advisor of the Interim Government, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is set to make a brief visit to New York this month to attend the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
This information was disclosed by the Foreign Affairs Advisor, Md Touhid Hossain, during a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday.
When questioned about the Chief Advisor’s participation in the UNGA, the Foreign Affairs Advisor confirmed that Dr. Yunus would indeed be attending.
“The Chief Advisor will make a very brief visit and return quickly from New York. Although he might have had additional commitments in Washington, he will be returning from New York as swiftly as possible,” said Md Touhid Hossain.
In response to queries regarding the exact departure date of Dr. Yunus, the Foreign Affairs Advisor mentioned that the details would be clarified in due course.
Concerning the Chief Advisor’s meeting schedule in New York, he stated, “Several meetings are expected to occur, but the specifics cannot be confirmed at this moment.”
Commenting on whether former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would be brought back to Bangladesh, Mr. Hossain remarked, “She could be handed back by India if they wish to.”
He further elaborated that the decision lies with India and that there are agreements in place that could facilitate her return.
“There are legal processes involved, and I am not entirely certain how they would unfold.
However, if the legal system or the Ministry of Home Affairs demands that Sheikh Hasina be brought back, we will certainly make efforts to do so,” he explained.
The Foreign Affairs Advisor also noted, “If the law or the court instructs us to bring her back, we will make the necessary arrangements.”
Addressing Sheikh Hasina’s status in India, Hossain mentioned that her red passport had been automatically cancelled. “For details on her current status, it would be best to consult the Indian authorities,” he added.
When discussing ongoing Indian projects in Bangladesh, Hossain stressed the importance of completing them.
He also addressed concerns about rising anti-Indian sentiment in Bangladesh and its impact on Indian nationals, acknowledging a certain level of anxiety.
“It’s more of an anxiety than outright fear, but I hope we will be able to overcome it,” he expressed.
Regarding the potential reconsideration of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed with India by the previous government, the Foreign Affairs Advisor clarified, “MOUs are not final agreements.
We will review whether our national interests are protected and take necessary actions to safeguard them.”