Yunus urges World Bank to assess Bangladesh based on progress, not geography

Yunus Urges World Bank to See Bangladesh Through Progress, Not Geography

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on the World Bank to assess Bangladesh based on its economic progress rather than its geographic identity, asserting that the country's economic potential far exceeds its borders.

“If Bangladesh thrives, so will South Asia. Progress cannot be achieved in isolation. We must expand our international trade and transport networks. The ocean is a crucial part of our economy,” Yunus said during a meeting with World Bank officials at the State Guest House Jamuna on Monday evening.

The newly appointed World Bank Vice President for South Asia, Johannes Zutt, accompanied by the institution’s new Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, Jean Pesme, paid a courtesy call on the Chief Adviser.

According to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Tuesday, Zutt voiced strong support for Bangladesh’s inclusive growth strategy and praised the interim government’s economic reform efforts under Professor Yunus’ leadership.

Zutt, who previously served as the World Bank’s Country Director for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal between 2013 and 2015, expressed his fondness for the country. “Kudos to you and your fantastic team for doing a good job,” he said, commending the government's handling of difficult financial sector challenges.

“We are ready to move forward together and share in the ambition of the people of Bangladesh,” Zutt added.

He also paid tribute to the students killed during the July Uprising of last year, describing it as “a deeply moving moment for anyone connected to Bangladesh.”

In response, Professor Yunus expressed gratitude for the World Bank’s continued support.

“When we took office, the situation resembled a disaster zone — like the aftermath of an earthquake. We had no prior experience. But the backing of development partners gave us confidence and strength,” he said.

He highlighted the transformative role of young people in the July Uprising, stating, “They gave this nation a dream — a vision for a new Bangladesh. What they achieved was historic. Women and girls, in particular, played a remarkable role. Today, as we mark July Women’s Day, we honour their sacrifices. We must focus on our youth and align with their aspirations.”

Pointing to Bangladesh's demographic advantage, Yunus added, “Most countries are ageing. We told global manufacturers: bring your factories here. We'll provide what you need to turn Bangladesh into a production hub.”

Zutt also praised Professor Yunus' long-standing efforts in women’s empowerment. “We will continue to support you. The World Bank-backed girls’ education stipend program in Bangladesh has become a model replicated worldwide,” he said, pledging support for creating opportunities for the country’s youth.

He noted that the World Bank invested over $3 billion in Bangladesh during the last financial year and committed to maintaining similar levels of support for the next three years.

Also present at the meeting was Lutfey Siddiqi, the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs, who briefed the delegation on the operational progress at the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) in Chattogram Port.

He noted that container handling at the NCT has significantly improved under new management. “We’re working to make it even more efficient. We also witnessed a notable increase in net foreign direct investment (FDI) during the January–March quarter of 2025, driven by rising intra-company loans and strong equity inflows,” Siddiqi added.