Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday urged the World Trade Organization (WTO) to provide its full support to ensure a smooth transition for Bangladesh as it prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Prof Yunus raised the issue during a meeting with WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York.

He requested DG WTO's role in the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference for a meaningful outcome to assist countries on the path to LDC graduation, ensuring they are not adversely affected by the potential withdrawal of trade concessions or preferential trade access in developed markets. DG WTO assured of her all-out support.

Bangladesh is expected to graduate from LDC in late 2026.

Their discussion also touched on long-anticipated WTO reforms and current global trade challenges, amid growing concerns over protectionism and a possible retreat from globalization.

In response, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that despite widespread concerns, global trade remains resilient, with approximately 75 percent of world trade still governed by WTO rules.

The WTO chief sought Bangladesh’s support in advancing critical reforms within the Geneva-based organization.

"The WTO must reform. I need your active engagement. I want your leadership here," she said.

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Professor Yunus echoed the call for comprehensive WTO reforms, stating the organization must adapt to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving global trade environment.

"It is time to take up the challenge," he said, adding that Bangladesh is prepared to raise its voice in support of meaningful change.

Also present at the meeting were Energy and Transport Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi, and SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed.