Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser to the interim government, has credited the Bangladeshi diaspora with helping the nation’s fragile economy recover, saying their support has been instrumental in stabilising the country.
Speaking at a meeting with Bangladeshi expatriates in Doha on 24 April, Yunus reflected on the dire economic state inherited by the caretaker government. “It is you who have enabled us to stand firm today,” he said.
“Without your support, we could not have recovered. Never consider yourselves separate from us.”
He pledged to introduce VIP treatment for expatriates at airports to make their travel experience smoother and more welcoming.
“We will ensure a peaceful and pleasant homecoming for migrants,” he added.
Addressing demands from migrant business owners, Yunus also promised swift action on reducing cargo freight costs and enhancing air freight capacity.
“We have already initiated steps to expedite air shipments and reduce cargo charges, treating this as a matter of the highest priority,” he stated.
“Besides Dhaka, we are exploring efficient cargo operations from Chattogram and Sylhet airports as well.”
While passenger transport traditionally receives greater attention, Yunus emphasised a shift in focus.
“We are now placing special importance on cargo transport by air,” he noted.
He further announced that passport and other consular services were being moved online, and urged the government to actively seek feedback and advice from overseas Bangladeshis on service delivery.
The meeting was attended by Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, SDG Chief Coordinator Lamia Morshed, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, and Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Qatar, Md Nazrul Islam.
