Professor Yunus advocates for stronger collaboration with the UK to improve Bangladesh’s healthcare system

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with the United Kingdom (UK) to enhance Bangladesh’s healthcare system. He highlighted this during a meeting with Baroness Rosie Winterton, the UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh, held at the State Guest House Jamuna.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations. Baroness Winterton acknowledged the longstanding and trusted partnership between the UK and Bangladesh, saying, “We have a long history together, and we are pleased to see the direction of reforms being undertaken.”

Professor Yunus described the present moment as a critical juncture for Bangladesh, noting, “It’s a very transformative time for us. We are focused on rebuilding institutions and reshaping national priorities.” He stressed the urgent need for a skilled healthcare workforce, especially nurses, stating, “We currently face a shortage of nurses. But nursing is not just a national concern—it’s a global necessity. We want to train nurses not only for Bangladesh but for the world.”

He invited the UK’s support in revitalizing the country’s under-resourced health sector, pointing out, “Government-run health programmes are nearly non-functional. This is where the UK can play a vital role.” He also identified pharmaceuticals as a promising area for collaboration, urging the UK to support global access to vaccines by advocating for lifting patent restrictions, enabling all countries to produce them affordably under a social business model.

In addition to healthcare, the discussion covered a broad spectrum of strategic cooperation, including education, textiles, defence, and aviation. Professor Yunus welcomed UK assistance in improving Bangladesh’s education system, modernising the textile industry, and exploring new areas of collaboration in defence and aviation. Both sides expressed interest in enhanced training opportunities, technology exchanges, and long-term partnerships across these sectors.

Highlighting the government's commitment to gender equality, Professor Yunus added, “We always prioritise women's participation in every sector. Empowering women is central to our development strategy.”

Baroness Winterton expressed the UK’s strong support for Bangladesh’s current reform agenda. During her visit, she also held discussions with Ali Riaz, who is leading the country's constitutional reform efforts.

Regarding the timing of the next general election, Professor Yunus indicated that the schedule would depend on the pace of reforms. “If political parties agree on a shorter reform process, elections could take place in December. But if a more extensive reform path is chosen, the election can be held by June.”

The meeting was also attended by Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed.