Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus delivered a compelling address at the inauguration of the 3rd edition of the ‘Bay of Bengal Conversation,’ organized by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at a city hotel. In his speech, Yunus highlighted the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, referring to a student-led revolution that dismantled a 16-year-old fascist regime, leading to the establishment of New Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Yunus paid tribute to the nearly thousand students and supporters who lost their lives and the 20,000 who were injured during the upheaval. He urged international attendees to explore Dhaka and witness the vibrant street art that captures the aspirations and emotions of the youth who played a pivotal role in this transformation.
Yunus expressed gratitude to the CGS for hosting the event during this transitional period, emphasizing that the convention is a testament to shared resilience and the collective dreams for a future grounded in human
rights, freedom of speech, justice, and inclusion. He underscored the theme of the convention, ‘A Fractured World,’ and linked it to the global challenges of economic disparity, social injustice, and climate change, while highlighting Bangladesh’s resilience and potential to contribute to sustainable development.
The Chief Adviser stressed the importance of unity and cooperation to address the climate crisis, emphasizing Bangladesh’s youthful population as a driving force for innovation and green growth. He called for a new civilization based on three zeros: zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration, and zero unemployment, advocating for social business as a means to address societal issues.
Yunus concluded his address by urging participants to imagine and create a new world, one that prioritizes environmental safety and equitable economic growth. As an optimist, he encouraged collaboration and imagination to drive change, officially opening the Bay of Bengal Conversation.