Yunus lauds Rome mayor for supporting Bangladeshis

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday expressed his appreciation to the Mayor of Rome for supporting Bangladeshi migrants, highlighting their successful cultural integration and contributions to both Italian society and the Bangladeshi economy.

"Thank you for taking good care of the Bangladeshi migrants," Professor Yunus said during a meeting with Mayor Roberto Gualtieri at his office, according to a Facebook post by the Chief Adviser at 4:19 am on Tuesday (Bangladesh local time).

He noted that Bangladeshi migrants in Italy are contributing to the host country’s economy while sending vital remittances back home. "They are now culturally integrated here. Many chefs in top Italian restaurants are from Bangladesh," Professor Yunus added.

Mayor Gualtieri also praised the Bangladeshi diaspora for their positive role in Rome’s multicultural landscape. He warmly welcomed Professor Yunus to his office, located amidst the ancient ruins of the Roman Empire. From his balcony, he offered the Chief Adviser a brief view of the historic Roman Senate and surrounding archaeological sites.

During the meeting, the mayor presented Professor Yunus with a commemorative plaque featuring a carved image of the Roman Emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius. The plaque has recently been gifted to several world leaders, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The two leaders underscored the importance of strengthening cultural ties between Rome and Bangladesh, especially given the presence of over 50,000 Bangladeshi nationals in the Italian capital. Their discussions also touched on Bangladesh’s upcoming national election, safe migration, and the possibility of a future visit to Bangladesh by the Italian Prime Minister.

Also present at the meeting were SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Italy, Rokebul Haque.