Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus extended an invitation to senior leaders of the United States Republican Party to visit Bangladesh and witness the Interim Government's initiatives to restore democracy in the country.
He made the call during a meeting with senior officials of the International Republican Institute (IRI) at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Wednesday (20 November).
IRI, a prominent think tank affiliated with the Republican Party, is dedicated to promoting democratic values worldwide.
Led by its regional chief, Steve Cima, the visiting delegation has been engaging with politicians, student organisations, and civil society representatives during their stay in Bangladesh.
Highlighting the importance of Bangladesh’s ongoing reforms, Cima stated, “The IRI’s priority is to support the Interim Government’s reform initiatives, especially given the widespread demand to address the deficiencies in the country’s key institutions. Under the Awami League, there was significant concern about the nation’s true trajectory. It is in the United States’ interests to see these reforms succeed.”
In response, Professor Yunus emphasised the interim government’s commitment to holding elections after implementing critical reforms.
He remarked metaphorically, “The train for the election has already left the first station, and the new Election Commission will pave the way for the general elections.”
Professor Yunus also expressed a desire for close collaboration with the incoming US administration under President Donald Trump.
He reiterated his intention to invite prominent Republican Senators and Congresspersons to observe the profound changes being brought about by the student-led mass uprising in Bangladesh.
The meeting was also attended by IRI officials Geoffrey Macdonald and Joshua Rosemblum, along with Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed.
