Paris: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus stated that the upcoming February election will usher in a new era for Bangladesh’s democracy during a meeting with Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo at his hotel. Yunus emphasized the significance of the forthcoming general election, which he described as foundational for the country’s democratic future.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the discussions between Yunus and Hidalgo also covered important topics such as the reforms initiated by the interim government, the role of social business in sports and the Olympics, and global refugee issues, with a particular focus on the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian crisis. Prof Yunus highlighted his efforts in transforming the Paris 2024 Olympics into a major social business event and stressed the importance of making future Olympic Games, including the Los Angeles Olympics, carbon neutral.
Yunus assured that Bangladesh is on the path to a democratic transition, with the next general election slated for the first half of February. Mayor Hidalgo expressed her full confidence in Prof Yunus’s leadership during this critical period, praising his efforts and achievements.
Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for increased funding to support humanitarian efforts for over one million Rohingya refugees living in camps in south-eastern Bangladesh. Hidalgo called for improved living conditions in refugee camps globally and expressed hope for the Rohingya people to safely and dignifiedly return to Myanmar.
Prof Yunus mentioned that the United Nations would host a major international conference on the Rohingya crisis next week, aiming to revitalize global attention on the severe refugee situation. He invited Mayor Hidalgo to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.
Lamiya Morshed, SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary to the government of Bangladesh, was also present at the meeting.