Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive economy where technological advancements and economic growth benefit everyone equally. "Let's challenge each other, listen to each other, and dare to imagine a new world with a new lifestyle consistent with an environmentally safe planet. And build an economy where fruits of technology, economic growth are shared evenly by all people, not monopolised by privileged few," Yunus articulated during his address at the inaugural session of the 3rd edition of the 'Bay of Bengal Conversation' organized by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at a city hotel this morning. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the conference, themed "A Fractured World," has drawn over 200 speakers, 300 delegates, and an audience of 800 participants from more than 80 countries. Prof Yunus, known for his optimism and as the 2006 Nobel Peace Laureate, expressed his belief in the power of collective imagination. "If we can imagine together, it becomes irresistible. Let's do it," he encouraged. Highlighting the urgency for creating a new civilization, Yunus critiqued the current one as a failure, particularly from environmental and economic perspectives. He argued that it has led to wealth concentration and environmental degradation. Prof Yunus advocated for a world characterized by three zeros: zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration through social business, and zero unemployment by empowering youth as entrepreneurs. Yunus also called for immediate and collective action to safeguard coastal communities from climate change impacts. "Our region is on the frontlines of climate change. Every year, our coastal communities face rising waters and shifting weather patterns that impact lives, homes, and livelihoods. This crisis is not something that can be put off for another day; it's something that requires our immediate and united action," he stated. He underscored the potential of the youth, noting that half of Bangladesh's 171 million population is under 27 years old, which presents an opportunity for creativity and leadership in sustainable development. "As we debate and share our thoughts in this gathering over next few days, I encourage you to think how to build a new world, as our youth have set us on a path to create the New Bangladesh," he said. Expressing gratitude to the Centre for Governance Studies, Prof Yunus highlighted the significance of the gathering in fostering ideas and solutions. He reflected on Bangladesh's history of resilience and the ongoing pursuit of a future grounded in human rights and justice. "It's the work of millions of voices, almost the voices of the entire nation, - voices that have demanded change, voices that continue to push us all to build a future based on human rights, freedom of speech, justice, and inclusion," he added. The chief adviser noted that the convention's theme resonates with the current global challenges, including economic disparity, social injustice, and climate change th reats. "In Bangladesh, we know something about resilience, about facing adversity and creating opportunity from it," he remarked, drawing from his experiences working with villagers and their enduring strength. Prof Yunus concluded by formally inaugurating the Bay of Bengal Conversation, underlying the potential for solutions through patience, courage, and persistence. Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha
