Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus today extended his heartfelt respect and love to all senior citizens on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons. In a message on the eve of the day, he stated that elder citizens are not a burden on any society; rather they are the living history. Their knowledge and experience hold invaluable guidance for future generations, he added.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the theme of this year's International Day of Older Persons is 'Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.' Referring to this year's theme, Professor Muhammad Yunus noted that the theme is timely and appropriate. "We dream of building a poverty-free world, where the work and dignity of every human being is ensured. Our elders can be one of the driving forces in fulfilling this dream," he said.
He emphasized that the experience of senior citizens will guide us during crises and instill confidence in the youth. He urged for the proper utilization of the insight, experience, and skills of senior citizens to achieve the goal of building a discrimination-free and corruption-free prosperous Bangladesh, following the July mass uprising.
"We need to create an environment where elderly people can work to solve social problems through various initiatives. The current interim government is committed to creating opportunities for a self-reliant and dignified life for the elderly," Dr Yunus stated. He expressed his hopes by saying, 'Let us welcome older people as active partners in our prosperous future. Let us build a world where every person lives a dignified and fulfilling life, realizing their highest potential," the Chief Adviser hoped.