Bangladeshi interim government’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has sought US support for the country’s democratic transition and reaffirmed that elections would be held “in the early part of next year” during his conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
During a telephone conversation on Monday, Rubio and Yunus discussed the ongoing reform process, transition to democracy, the upcoming general election, and aid for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. Yunus assured Rubio that the ongoing dialogue between his government and political parties would result in much-needed reforms of the country’s political system.
“The 15-minute discussion was warm, cordial, and constructive, reflecting the strong bilateral engagement between the two nations. Secretary Rubio expressed support for Bangladesh’s reform agenda and its move to hold elections early next year,” the Bangladesh Chief Advisor posted on X.
“The Election Commission is working hard to reorganise the electoral system, which was destroyed by the previous government. Our young people will vote for the first time in their lives,” said Yunus.
Commending Washington for its continued generous support to Rohingya refugees, Yunus added, ‘’The prospect for a viable solution and repatriation of Rohingyas back to Myanmar is now better than ever before, and Bangladesh is working on that.”
Yunus mentioned that both leaders also touched upon geopolitical issues, including the need for a stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region and Bangladesh’s relationships with its neighbours. The Chief Advisor invited Rubio to visit Bangladesh ahead of the general election to witness the country’s transition to democracy firsthand, stating, “It will inspire our young people.”