Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged the World Bank not to view Bangladesh merely as a geographical boundary, emphasising that the country’s economy is much larger and more dynamic than its map suggests.
“If Bangladesh prospers, the whole South Asian region will prosper. If we isolate ourselves, we are not progressing. We need to develop our international trade facilities and transport systems. We have an ocean, and it is an important part of our economy,” he said.
Newly appointed World Bank Vice President for South Asia Johannes Zutt, accompanied by the Bank’s new Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, Jean Pesme, called on the chief adviser at state guest house Jamuna late Monday.
Zutt expressed strong support for Bangladesh’s inclusive growth and praised Prof Yunus for the interim government’s economic reform agenda, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Tuesday.
During their discussion, Zutt recalled his affection for Bangladesh from his earlier tenure as the World Bank’s country director for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal from 2013 to 2015.
“Kudos to you and your fantastic team for doing a good job,” he said, acknowledging the interim government’s leadership under Prof Yunus, particularly in addressing “some very challenging issues in the financial sector.”
He added, “We are very much prepared to continue our journey and share the ambition of the people of Bangladesh.”
Zutt also paid tribute to the students killed in last year’s July Uprising, calling it “a very moving moment for everyone connected with Bangladesh.”
The chief adviser thanked him for his support and kind words.
“When we assumed office, it was like a catastrophic zone, like a place struck by an earthquake. We had no prior experience. Yet, all the development partners supported us. That support made us confident,” Prof Yunus said.
He highlighted the role of youth in the July Uprising, saying, “They showed this nation a dream of building a new Bangladesh.”
“What our young people did last July was historic – especially our girls and women, who played a significant role. We are observing July Women’s Day today. Their sacrifices must not go in vain. Young people are the focal point of our country. We need to focus on them and match their ambition.”
“Most countries are short on young people, so we told them to bring their factories here. We will provide the essentials for industries to make Bangladesh a production hub,” he added.
The World Bank vice president commended Prof Yunus’ work in empowering women.
“We will continue supporting you. With World Bank support, Bangladesh had a pioneering girls’ education stipend programme that has since been replicated in other countries,” Zutt said. “The World Bank will help Bangladesh create opportunities for the youth.”
He noted that the global lender financed over $3 billion in Bangladesh in the last financial year and pledged to continue similar support over the next three years.
Special Envoy for International Affairs to the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi also attended the meeting. He provided an update on the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) at Chattogram Port.
He said container handling at the NCT has increased under the new operational management.
“Our plan is to make it more efficient. We also saw a significant surge in net foreign direct investment (FDI) in the January–March quarter of 2025, driven by a sharp rise in intra-company loans and strong equity investments,” Siddiqi added.
