Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus has expressed his aspiration to shape Bangladesh into a nation where the people serve as the ultimate source of all power, aspiring for global recognition as a humane and benevolent state.
Speaking at a reception for freedom fighters on Thursday (21 November), in commemoration of Armed Forces Day at the Army Multi-Purpose Complex in Dhaka Cantonment, Dr Yunus articulated his vision for a new Bangladesh.
He remarked, "The Liberation War was fought with dreams of a nation free from discrimination, exploitation, and inequality—a state that thrives in the fresh air of justice and welfare. I am committed to realising the aspirations of the valiant freedom fighters. From this moment onward, we aim to build Bangladesh where the people are the fountainhead of all authority and the country earns respect as a compassionate and benevolent state on the global stage."
Dr Yunus also outlined a foreign policy grounded in mutual respect, trust, and cooperation, asserting, "We will maintain friendly relations with all nations. Our foreign policy will emphasise reciprocal honour, confidence, and collaboration."
Reflecting on the revolution led by students and citizens on 5 August, he stated, "This uprising has marked the dawn of a new Bangladesh. In this new nation, our duty is to unite all individuals under the bond of an extended family. Like any family, differences of opinion and debates will occur, but no one will be regarded as an enemy due to their beliefs. No one will be seen as inferior or superior because of their religion or opinions. We are all equal, members of the same family."
Dr Yunus concluded by emphasising the importance of fostering this ethos of equality and unity within the nation's collective identity.