Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today exchanged Christmas greetings with representatives of the Christian community at the State Guest House Jamuna. Photo: CA's Press Wing

DHAKA, Dec 24, 2025 (BSS) – Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today exchanged Christmas greetings with representatives of the Christian community at the State Guest House Jamuna here on the occasion of Christmas.

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain, head of Catholic Christians of Bangladesh Archbishop Bejoy N D'Cruze, President of the National Christian Fellowship of Bangladesh Bishop Philip P Adhikary, Trustee of the Christian Religious Welfare Trust Dr Benedict Alo D' Rozario, President of the National Council of Churches in Bangladesh Christopher Adhikari and other prominent leaders of the Christian community were present on the occasion, said the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing this evening.

In their welcome address, Christian leaders highlighted Professor Muhammad Yunus’s global reputation and his role in improving the country’s economy and overall situation.

They expressed hope that the upcoming election would be held in a free and fair manner under his leadership.

In his address, Archbishop Bejoy N D'Cruze described Jesus Christ as universal and said that, inspired by the great ideals of forgiveness and service to humanity preached by Jesus Christ, millions of people around the world, including those in Bangladesh, are celebrating Christmas this year with joy and enthusiasm.

Extending Christmas greetings to the Chief Adviser, N D’Cruze said, “After the July mass uprising, the people have keep their trust on you to rebuild Bangladesh anew. You have been carrying out that responsibility with great dedication. We pray that your efforts will succeed through a beautiful and peaceful election”.

Wishing everyone on the occasion of the Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Prof Yunus said, “You are the reflection of society. By looking at you, we can understand whether everything is in order.”

“We want to build a healthy society. For that reason the July Charter has been prepared to uphold the spirit of the mass uprising,” the Chief Adviser said, adding, through a referendum on this charter, the country will move one step forward. 

He noted that alongside the parliamentary election, a referendum will also be held this time.

The next parliament will adopt reform measures based on the verdict given by the people in the referendum, Prof Yunus said.

He called upon religious leaders to play a role in raising public awareness about the upcoming election and referendum.

On the occasion, leaders of the Christian Religious Welfare Trust specially thanked the interim government for granting Taka 2.5 crore to the trust on the occasion of Christmas. 

They said the grant is being distributed in three phases among 800 churches across the country.

Later, the Chief Adviser cut a cake together with representatives of the Christian community to mark Christmas.