Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus on Thursday called upon the business community to join forces in building a new and prosperous Bangladesh.
He emphasised the need for a collaborative effort to boost productivity, capacity, and competitiveness, ensuring the country can compete effectively on the global stage.
Speaking at the “National Business Dialogue” hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh (ICCB) at a Dhaka hotel, the Nobel laureate said, “The businesspeople must unite as one team to enhance our nation’s standing in the global market.”
The event saw prominent figures such as Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, Finance and Commerce Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, and business leader Mir Nasir Hossain, who represented ICCB President Mahbubur Rahman, in attendance.
Dr Yunus commended the entrepreneurial spirit of the country’s business leaders, stating, “We need to move ahead as a compact team, a compact family. Let’s work together to build a new Bangladesh.”
He expressed hope that the country could move beyond the troubled past of the last 15 years, describing this moment as a unique opportunity to create a healthier and more robust economy.
“We can do that together,” he affirmed, highlighting the potential of the nation’s businesspeople, whom he described as “world-class entrepreneurs.”
The Chief Adviser emphasised that this was no ordinary political movement but rather one driven by students, whose unwavering spirit led the way to achieving the goal of creating a new Bangladesh.
“Such opportunities don’t come often, and we don’t know if the nation will get another chance like this in the future,” he cautioned, urging the business community not to let this moment pass by unutilised.
Dr Yunus pointed to the rise of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry as a prime example of the country’s entrepreneurial success, which now proudly holds the second position in the global market.
He expressed optimism that with continued effort, Bangladesh could one day claim the number one spot.
Referring to the business community as members of a “compact family,” Dr Yunus assured them that the interim government is eager to work in close collaboration with them.
“We may not have all the knowledge or experience, but together we can gather the expertise needed,” he said, calling on the community to help realise the collective dream of a better Bangladesh.
He also addressed the challenges facing the nation in the post-graduation era, particularly the potential loss of certain benefits. However, he stressed that developing the capacity to compete globally was essential.
During the event, Dr Yunus introduced his Special Envoy on International Affairs, Lutfey Siddiqui, to the business leaders, expressing confidence that Siddiqui would effectively convey the concerns and messages of Bangladeshi businesses to international partners.
“Let us work on reforms together,” Dr Yunus urged. He also highlighted the importance of fostering a positive relationship between workers and business owners, stating, “We cannot progress if workers’ issues remain unaddressed.
If we want to move forward, we must have the courage to tackle these challenges.”
He further encouraged business leaders to explore the concept of social business, noting that while making money brings happiness, “making others happy is super-happiness.”
Mir Nasir Hossain, representing ICCB President Mahbubur Rahman, echoed Dr Yunus’ sentiments. He warned of a “well-orchestrated vested quarter” attempting to discredit the interim government by sowing chaos and unrest.
“We must resist this unholy alliance with full force,” he said, pledging that the business community would act as a catalyst to help realise the dream of a new Bangladesh.
Hossain assured that businesses have “full trust and confidence” in Dr Yunus’ interim government to lead the country towards a brighter future, one that fulfils the aspirations of both the students and the masses.