Saturday
22 November, 2025
News Flash
News Flash
DHAKA, Nov 22, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today said the bond between Bangladesh and Bhutan is rooted not only in diplomacy but in history, trust and heart for goodwill.
"Tonight's event reflects a bond rooted not only in diplomacy but in history, trust, and heart for goodwill," Prof Yunus said while speaking at a state banquet hosted in honour of visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at a city hotel this evening.
Advisers of the interim government and political leaders also joined the dinner, followed by a cultural function.
In his speech, the Chief Adviser highlighted the deep historic and diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Bhutan, describing the relationship as one grounded in longstanding solidarity, cultural harmony and mutual respect.
Welcoming the Bhutanese Prime Minister, he said, "By its strange coincidence, he was the first dignitary that I met in the international conference . . . immediately we became very close friends. He is an amazing person. We are so happy to welcome you."
Prof Yunus praised Tobgay as "a dedicated leader" with "a broad global view" and said that "the whole Bhutan is a very good friend of Bangladesh."
He recalled Bhutan's historic decision to recognize Bangladesh as an independent state, noting that this "remains a timeless gesture of solidarity" that continues to guide "our relationship more than five decades later."
The Chief Adviser emphasised shared history and culture between the two countries, stating that relations are also grounded in "deep reverence for numerous Bengali monks and Buddhist scholars," whose influence continues to shape ties between the two nations.
He highlighted the countries' common commitment to "human dignity, collective good and the wealth of our people."
"Actually, your visit comes at a significant time for Bangladesh as we are passing through a historic moment of national democracy. Strengthening democratic governance, revitalizing institutions and ensuring development remains inclusive, equitable and just," Prof Yunus said.
"As Bangladesh starts on a new journey, we anticipate the understanding and support of our neighbours and close friends," he added.
Referring to bilateral discussions earlier in the day, the Chief Adviser said they covered cooperation in trade, sub-regional energy, education, tourism, connectivity and beyond, adding that the meeting would open avenues for elevating partnership for the benefit of the people of the two countries.
Commending Bhutan's development philosophy, inspired by the vision of the fourth King, he said it serves as a reminder that economic progress must always remain connected to human well-being.
Bangladesh shares the same human development philosophy and aspirations towards zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration to end poverty, zero unemployment through entrepreneurship, Prof Yunus said, adding, Bangladesh remains committed to working closely with regional partners like Bhutan to share knowledge.
He highly commended Bhutan that continues to advance its remarkable achievement as the world's first carbon negative nation in the world.
"We also deeply appreciate Bhutan's initiative at COP including the formation of alliances," the Chief Adviser said, adding, "Let's hope the alliance of Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal continues to initiate climate justice for our economy in transition in line with the recent judgment of ICC."
He called for renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, describing the friendship as "a bond of history standing by trust and longing for a brighter future." He expressed hope that the Bhutanese delegation's visit would be "productive, pleasant and memorable," and ended with a tribute: "Long live Bangladesh and Bhutan friendship."
On the occasion, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay recalled his previous visits to Dhaka in 2023, 2020 and 2014.
"Each time I return, I am reminded of the warmth of our friendship, the privacy, and witness of our national culture, which we just witnessed here in all its glory. And the enduring goodwill that has more characterized the relationship between our two great countries," he said.
Conveying his sincere appreciation to the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation, Tobgay said, "We are deeply touched by the Bangla graciousness and warm hospitality which truly reflects the generous spirit of Bangladesh".
Praising Prof Yunus, the Bhutanese leader said, "As a noble laureate your life's work has earned you a distinguished place in global history."
Tobgay highlighted Yunus' "pioneering contributions" to development thinking and noted that he had been reading about the "three zeros - zero net carbon, zero poverty, and zero unemployment," describing them as "valuable lessons for all of us."
"This evening, I would also like to acknowledge your continued service to the people of Bangladesh in your role as the Chief Adviser," he said, adding, "We recognize the immense responsibilities you shoulder at this pivotal juncture in the nation's journey."
Noting that the relationship between Bhutan and Bangladesh is the bond forged by history, friendship and mutual trust, the Bhutanese Prime Minister said the cooperation between the two countries whether human resource development, trade, connectivity or other areas has steadily deepened over the years.
Referring to the two memoranda of understanding (MOUs) signed between Bangladesh and Bhutan earlier today, Tobgay said this will further strengthen the partnership between the two nations.
"I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish in the years to come. Today, we celebrate our past achievements and look forward with optimism and determination to the future," he said.
"Together, we are poised to embark on new chapters of cooperation, innovation and progress. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the values of our friendship," the Bhutanese PM added.
