Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday renewed his emphasis on the economic opportunities in the region, underscoring the vast growth potential of a broader regional cooperation encompassing Nepal, Bhutan and northeastern India.
In a televised address to the nation ahead of Tuesday’s handover of power, Prof Yunus outlined Bangladesh’s maritime access as a strategic asset.
“Our open sea is not merely a geographical boundary; it is a gateway to the global economy,” he said, highlighting connectivity as central to the country’s next phase of development.
Prof Yunus said through economic zones, trade agreements and access to duty-free markets, a strong foundation will be established for this region to become a global manufacturing hub.
“We have come a long way in signing agreements with the best international port management companies to take the efficiency of our ports to the international level. If we cannot increase its efficiency, we will lag behind in economic achievements,” he said.
The Chief Adviser said they have been able to firmly restore these three fundamental foundations of Bangladesh's sovereignty, national interests, and the country's dignity in foreign policy.
“Bangladesh is no longer a country with submissive foreign policy or dependent on the instructions and advice of other countries, today's Bangladesh is confident, active and responsible in protecting its independent interests,” he said.
Prof Yunus said they are committed to building relations with all countries of the world based on mutual respect and interests.
At the same time, he said, Bangladesh has established itself today as a state capable of taking necessary strategic decisions for the future while maintaining balance.
Prof Yunus said the Rohingya crisis has created a serious and long-term strain on the national security, regional stability and economy.
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Unfortunately, he said, for a long time, no effective and coordinated international initiative was visible to resolve this crisis. “Since assuming office, we have been able to bring this issue, which was moribund in the international arena, back to the center of global attention.”
Realising the importance of this crisis, he said, the United Nations has stood by Bangladesh.
The UN Secretary-General himself has visited Bangladesh and pledged to help find a sustainable solution to the problem, he said, adding that at his request, a special conference on the Rohingya issue was held at the UN.