United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has pledged the UN’s full support to Bangladesh’s interim government in its efforts to restore an inclusive and prosperous democracy. In a message directed to Chief Adviser Prof Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Guterres expressed his best wishes following Yunus’s assumption of the interim government’s leadership and lauded the efforts to bring stability and organize parliamentary elections in Bangladesh.
“Bangladesh is at a pivotal moment in its history,” Guterres remarked. “The United Nations is fully committed to supporting the efforts towards an inclusive and prosperous democracy. We are ready to work closely with your government and provide any necessary assistance through the Resident Coordinator and the United Nations Country Team to benefit the people of Bangladesh.”
Guterres emphasized that during this transitional phase, Prof Yunus’s leadership will be critical in ending violence, ensuring accountability, restoring law and order, and steering the country towards democratic elections.
He also underscored the importance of adopting an inclusive approach by the interim government, highlighting the need to consider the voices of youths, women, minorities, and indigenous communities.
Additionally, the UN Secretary-General urged the interim government to ensure the protection of all citizens, particularly minorities, and expressed concern over the situation of Rohingya refugees. “I strongly encourage you to safeguard the wellbeing of Rohingya refugees, especially in light of the worsening situation in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar,” he stated.