Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged the World Bank to assist in recovering the stolen funds and support the reform and modernization of the Chittagong Port, emphasising its potential to generate millions of manufacturing jobs and enhance regional cooperation.

"Chittagong Port is the key to economic growth in the region. Let’s develop together," Prof Yunus said, noting that landlocked Nepal and Bhutan, as well as India's seven northeastern states, stand to benefit significantly from an upgraded port.

He made the remarks when World Bank President Ajay Banga met him on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday.

During the meeting, they discussed a range of critical issues, including the upcoming national election in February, the country's democratic transition, fiscal and banking sector reforms, the revitalisation of the Chittagong Port, regional economic integration and the growing political engagement of youth across Asia.

They also discussed the recovery of billions of dollars in stolen assets.

President Banga praised Prof Yunus for his leadership over the past 14 months, highlighting his pivotal role in steering Bangladesh’s economic recovery, said Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

In response, Prof Yunus expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s steadfast support during what is described as one of the most critical periods in the nation's history.

President Banga underscored the importance of robust reforms in the banking and fiscal sectors, stating that they are essential to laying the foundation for sustained, high-growth economic development.

Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi and SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed were present.