Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on Bangladesh's international partners to support the creation of a new Bangladesh envisioned by the nation’s youth.
“Through the sacrifice and leadership of our youth, revolutionary changes have taken place in Bangladesh. They gave their lives to build a society free from discrimination and a prosperous country,” Dr Yunus said at a reception marking Bangladesh’s 50th anniversary of membership in the United Nations on Tuesday evening.
Yunus emphasised the importance of not squandering the opportunity created by the sacrifices of the youth. “The youth want to reshape Bangladesh with transformative changes in our state structure and institutions. We need your support to make this vision a reality.”
The event was attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, US Assistant Secretary of State for Central and South Asia Donald Lu, and representatives from various countries.
Bangladesh became a full member of the United Nations on September 17, 1974.
Several prominent figures were also present, including Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Energy Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, Principal Coordinator for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed, Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Mahfuj Alam, and Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.
During the event, Dr Yunus and renowned photographer Shahidul Alam unveiled the covers of two books documenting the events of the student-led uprising in Bangladesh.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of the students, Yunus noted that the nation is now united in their shared dream of a new Bangladesh. “We do not want to let down those who envisioned this transformation.”
He also outlined his government’s efforts to introduce a new electoral system through institutional reforms. “For too long, the youth had no hope, as a dictator had crushed their dreams and their future. They bravely faced bullets to topple that regime.”
Addressing the international community, the Nobel laureate praised the courage and determination of Bangladeshi youth. “They faced bullets without hesitation, even accepting disability in the process. We want you, our friends, to stand by us as we build the democratic Bangladesh they fought for.”
Yunus is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on September 27.