Yunus seeks Qatari investment to boost regional economy

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has highlighted the importance of regional economy and integration, noting that working together can offer fantastic opportunities for the region and beyond.

Speaking at a private business reception held on the sidelines of the Earthna Summit in Doha on Tuesday evening, Prof Yunus highlighted Bangladesh’s unique position in South Asia, surrounded by landlocked neighbors like Nepal, Bhutan and India’s northeastern states, collectively known as the ‘Seven Sisters’.

If these neighbouring regions are granted access through Bangladesh, Prof Yunus said, Bangladesh could emerge as a vibrant economic hub, powered by an educated, tech-savvy youth population.

“I would say Bangladesh is an amazing country with immense possibilities and potentials,” he said, calling upon the foreign investors to explore the immense business opportunities in Bangladesh, citing the country’s strategic location, youthful workforce and economic potential.

He extended an invitation to foreign enterprises to consider Bangladesh as their next production hub, assuring full cooperation from his interim government.

“We are offering ourselves-make Bangladesh your production hub. Relocate your factories here, and we will provide all-out support,” he said.

The Chief Adviser noted that a recent investment summit in Bangladesh received an overwhelming response from international investors, which he said reflects growing global confidence in the country’s economic prospects.

“We had tremendous responses from the global investors. We are very happy to invite you and look at Bangladesh,” Prof Yunus said.

The Chief Adviser also emphasised Bangladesh’s demographic advantage, pointing out that the nation of approximately 180 million people is the eighth most populous in the world, with more than half of the population under the age of 37.

“These young people have access to technology and knowledge, and they are ready to take the country forward,” he added.

Referencing the recent nationwide student-led uprising, Prof Yunus praised the role of young women in the movement. “It was a powerful and inspiring sight to see young girls leading demonstrations across the country,” he said.

He also spoke of his interim government’s efforts to repair the nation’s institutions after what he described as years of damage caused by the previous 16-year regime.

Reforms are underway in the economy, judiciary, and other critical sectors, he noted.

At the end of this process, Prof Yunus said, they will hold the election.