Chief Adviser calls on Asian nations to develop a clear roadmap for collective prosperity

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday urged Asian nations to establish a clear roadmap for a shared future and prosperity.  

“In this evolving world, the destinies of Asian countries are interconnected. We must define a clear path toward a shared future and collective prosperity,” he stated while addressing the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference in Hainan.  

Discussing financial cooperation, Professor Yunus emphasized the need for a sustainable financing system in Asia. He urged regional Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and similar institutions to take the lead in this effort. “We require reliable funding mechanisms to tackle our challenges and meet rising demands,” he said.  

On trade cooperation, he pointed out that Asia remains one of the least integrated regions, which hampers investment and trade. “We must take immediate steps to strengthen trade collaboration,” he urged.  

Regarding food and agriculture, Professor Yunus stressed the importance of resource-efficient farming and enhancing domestic production to ensure food security.  

“To achieve self-sufficiency, we must reduce reliance on imports and expand technology-driven sustainable agricultural solutions. Innovation in regenerative and climate-smart farming is essential,” he remarked.  

He further highlighted the need to develop a strong technological ecosystem in Asia—one that is restorative, inclusive, and equitable.  

“We must foster knowledge-sharing, invest in technology incubation, and collaborate on digital solutions to drive progress,” he said.  

Additionally, he emphasized the role of intellectual resources and youth in shaping the region’s future.  

“We need to lay the foundation for a new civilization—one that is self-sustaining and socially responsible. A counter-culture based on a zero-waste lifestyle is necessary, with consumption limited to essential needs. Our economy should focus on social business, where innovation, purpose, and responsibility intersect,” he noted.  

Professor Yunus called on the Boao Forum and similar initiatives to enhance collaboration among young people and entrepreneurs, ensuring a better future for generations to come.  

He concluded by advocating for every young person to embrace the “three-zero” philosophy: zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration, and zero unemployment through social business entrepreneurship.  

“This is the shared future Asia must work toward,” he asserted.