Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has urged BIMSTEC nations to unite for a future free from poverty, unemployment and carbon emissions, while calling for urgent action on trade, connectivity and the Rohingya crisis.
Bangladesh seeks to build a "Triple Zero" world - free from poverty, unemployment and carbon emissions , Muhammad Yunus told the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on Friday (4 April).
Addressing the summit in the Thai capital, Yunus said, “Some may see our population as a challenge, but we view it as a potential. We wish to harness the power and promise of BIMSTEC by hosting its secretariat.”
Emphasising the need to enhance trade, investment, and youth mobility across the region, Yunus noted that intra-regional trade among BIMSTEC countries remains a paltry 5.9%.
“We seek the implementation of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement signed in 2004,” he said.
He also stressed the urgency of implementing the transport connectivity master plan adopted at the fifth summit, adding that Bangladesh stands ready to offer full support in realising it.
“Yesterday, we signed the BIMSTEC Maritime Cooperation Agreement, which will play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity with landlocked countries and India’s northeastern region.”
Yunus called for a restructured financial architecture that not only boosts wealth but also ensures dignity and security.
“Innovative social business could be one way to achieve this,” he proposed.
Warning that the unresolved Rohingya crisis could destabilise the entire region, Yunus urged BIMSTEC to adopt a more proactive role. He suggested the establishment of a humanitarian corridor in Rakhine State to prevent hunger and displacement.
With Bangladesh assuming the chairmanship of BIMSTEC, Yunus said Dhaka looks forward to welcoming member states over the next two years.
