Bangladesh–Bhutan friendship rooted in history: Dr Yunus
“Bhutan’s early recognition of Bangladesh’s independence remains a timeless gesture of solidarity that still guides relations more than 50 years later,” he said today (November 22) in Dhaka.
Prof Yunus highlighted the long-standing ties between the two countries, describing the relationship as one strengthened by shared history, cultural harmony, and mutual respect.
Welcoming the Bhutanese Prime Minister, he recalled their first meeting and praised him as “an amazing person” and “a dedicated leader with a broad global view.”
Dr Yunus also noted the influence of Bengali monks and Buddhist scholars in strengthening cultural ties between the two nations. He emphasised shared values, including commitments to human dignity, collective well-being, and people-centred development.
He said the Bhutanese leader’s visit comes at an important time for Bangladesh, as the country works to strengthen democratic governance, rebuild institutions, and ensure fair and inclusive development. “As Bangladesh starts a new journey, we look for understanding and support from our neighbours and close friends,” he added.
He said the bilateral meeting earlier in the day covered cooperation in trade, sub-regional energy, connectivity, education, and tourism, which would help deepen the partnership.
Praising Bhutan’s development philosophy inspired by the fourth king, he said it reminds the world that economic progress must always be linked to human well-being. He added that Bangladesh shares similar goals—zero carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration, and zero unemployment through entrepreneurship.
Read more: Bangladesh, Bhutan sign two MoUs
Prof Yunus also praised Bhutan for being the world’s first carbon-negative country and appreciated its climate initiatives. He hoped Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal would continue working together for climate justice.
He called for renewed commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries and expressed hope that the Bhutanese delegation’s visit would be “productive, pleasant and memorable.” He concluded with, “Long live Bangladesh and Bhutan friendship.”
Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, in his response, recalled his earlier visits to Dhaka and praised the warmth and hospitality of the Bangladeshi people. He expressed deep appreciation for Bangladesh’s graciousness, saying it reflects the “generous spirit of Bangladesh”.
He praised Prof Yunus for his global contributions, including the “three zeros” development philosophy — zero carbon, zero poverty, and zero unemployment — calling them valuable lessons.
Read more: Bhutanese PM pays homage to Liberation War martyrs
Tobgay said relations between Bhutan and Bangladesh have grown steadily in areas such as human resource development, trade, and connectivity. He welcomed the two MOUs signed earlier in the day, saying they would further strengthen cooperation.
He expressed confidence that the friendship would continue to flourish and said both countries are ready to begin “new chapters of cooperation, innovation, and progress.” He ended by reaffirming Bhutan’s commitment to the values that bind the two nations.
