Bangladesh interim government chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has urged the World Bank (WB) to assist in recovering the stolen funds and support the reform and modernisation of the Chittagong Port, emphasising its potential to generate millions of manufacturing jobs and enhance regional cooperation.
‘Chittagong Port is key to economic growth in the region. Let’s develop together,’ he said, noting that landlocked Nepal and Bhutan, as well as India’s seven northeastern states, stand to benefit significantly from an upgraded port.
The chief adviser made the call when World Bank President Ajay Banga met him on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN Headquarters here in the USA on Tuesday.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a range of critical issues, including Bangladesh’s upcoming national election in February, the country’s democratic transition, fiscal and banking sector reforms, recovery of billions of dollars in stolen assets, regional economic integration, and the growing political engagement of youth across Asia.
The WB president underscored the importance of robust reforms in the banking and fiscal sectors, stating that they are essential to laying the foundation for sustained, high-growth economic development.
He praised Prof Yunus for his leadership over the past 14 months, highlighting his pivotal role in steering Bangladesh’s economic recovery.
In response, Prof Yunus expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s steadfast support during what is described as one of the most critical periods in the nation’s history.
Energy adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, chief adviser’s special envoy Lutfey Siddiqi, and SDG coordinator Lamiya Morshed were present at the meeting.