United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday expressed optimism over finalising an excellent ‘July Charter’ through broader consensus among the political parties agreeing on more issues bridging the gaps which remain close to consensus. “I hope you will enter into the chapter and we will be able to present an excellent July Charter,” he said while inaugurating the second round of dialogue of the National Consensus Commission with the political parties at the Foreign Service Academy. The political parties and stakeholders involved in the reform process including the leaders of BNP, Jamaat and NCP joined the dialogue. Prof Yunus said it makes him thrilled being involved in such a process where all are working together to write a real future of the country. He said the July Charter will look better, and as a nation, they will feel proud if more issues are added based on consensus. Prof Yunus said they are here to work for the betterment of the country and for its further development coming together. “Finally we will prepare the July Charter. It is our aim,” said the Chief Adviser in his opening remarks during the dialogue. Prof Yunus said a total of 12 reform commissions were formed in two phases as the responsibility was given to the interim government for carrying out reforms. He also briefly talked about the process of the reform commissions and their subsequent submission of reports and the formation of the National Consensus Commission. “I feel very delighted when I get the opportunity to sit together with you (political leaders),” said the Chief Adviser. Second phase of dialogue soon after May 15: Ali Riaz  In his closing remarks, Prof Yunus laid emphasis on maintaining the unity and making it stronger so that the ‘July Charter’ can further be enriched. He said this dialogue will continue keeping it as a national agenda and more meetings will be held. “I have listened to your valuable suggestions with due attention.”   Prof Yunus hoped for a stronger unity so that the nation finds the desired direction. Vice Chairman of the National Consensus Commission Prof Ali Riaz and other members of the Commission were present. The Commission held talks with 33 parties and alliances including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP) before concluding the first round of dialogues on May 19 last. Formed on February 15, 2025, under the leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the Commission was tasked with shaping a unified national stance on critical reforms. Political parties are nearing a consensus on several key reform proposals, including the restoration of the caretaker government, introduction of a bicameral parliament and reservation of 100 seats for women in Parliament. On May 26, Prof Ali Riaz revealed the Commission's progress in building consensus over the state reform initiatives. “There is no disagreement among the political parties over restoration of the caretaker government,” he said. Political parties, including BNP, Jamaat and NCP, responded by sending their reform opinions in broadsheets to the Consensus Commission. The National Consensus Commission aims to reach a national consensus by mid-July to prepare a national charter to reform the state structures.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has emphasized the need to create opportunities for young people, asserting that Bangladesh’s large population is not a burden but a valuable resource. "With the advancement of technology, no human being is a burden. Every individual is a resource —whether in innovation, entrepreneurship, or invention. These are our strengths," he said. Speaking at a program hosted by the Bangladesh Administrative Service Association (BASA) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Centre on Sunday night, Dr Yunus described the youth of Bangladesh as a formidable force. "Our youth have the potential to conquer the world," he said, highlighting their capabilities and the importance of providing them with opportunities. The Chief Adviser noted that the younger generation of Bangladesh is distinct and that doors must be opened for them to thrive. Dr Yunus instructs DCs to uphold law, monitor markets, protect rights He pointed to the power demonstrated by the country's youth during the July uprising, calling it a remarkable example for the world. Dr Yunus also emphasized Bangladesh’s growing role in the global workforce, mentioning that the country, now the eighth most populous in the world, is a sought-after source of skilled manpower for many nations. He called upon all sectors of society to work together in building an honest and corruption-free Bangladesh. The event was also attended by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Nahid Islam, Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, and BASA President and LGRD Secretary Md Nazrul Islam. The programme concluded with a cultural performance.