Chinese Banker Lauds Dr. Yunus’ Efforts in Poverty Eradication

WU Xiaoling, former Deputy Governor of the People’s Bank of China, praised Nobel Peace Laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus for his significant contributions to poverty alleviation through microcredit programs and social business initiatives. Speaking on Thursday at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, Xiaoling expressed admiration for Yunus, saying, “Your contribution to eradicating poverty is truly inspiring. I sincerely wish that under your leadership, Bangladesh shines.”

Despite differences in poverty levels between China and Bangladesh, Xiaoling highlighted how the Grameen Bank's approach, founded by Yunus, had provided valuable insights for China’s development efforts.

Chinese Vice-Premier Highlights President Xi’s Support for Yunus’ Visit

During their meeting, Xiaoling introduced Yunus to Zhu Xufeng, a young professor and Dean of the School of Public Policy and Management at Tsinghua University. Professor Zhu extended an invitation to Yunus to visit Tsinghua University, where he would have the opportunity to share his experiences with students. Zhu also expressed interest in building a collaboration between Tsinghua University and the Yunus Centre for social business. “We would love to be part of the global network of 111 Yunus Centres in 40 countries,” he said.

Prof. Yunus expressed enthusiasm for the invitation, with his Deputy Press Secretary, Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, confirming that Yunus looks forward to visiting Tsinghua University. Additionally, Yunus extended an invitation to Zhu and his colleagues to attend the Annual Social Business Day in Dhaka in June, showcasing Bangladesh’s commitment to promoting social business and youth-led solutions to global challenges.

Dr. Yunus Calls for Collective Action for a Sustainable Future

In a discussion on future global cooperation, Yunus emphasized the importance of youth and intellectual resources in creating a sustainable society. "We must lay the foundation for a new civilisation: a self-preserving and self-reinforcing society," Yunus said, advocating for a zero-waste lifestyle and a counter-culture that fosters environmental sustainability.

Xiaoling, who previously served as the Chair and Dean of the PBC School of Finance at Tsinghua University, has played an instrumental role in China’s financial development. She was recognized for her significant contributions during the 1997 financial crisis and has earned global recognition, including being named one of the "World’s 50 Most Watched Businesswomen" by the Wall Street Journal and twice being nominated as one of the "Most Influential Women in the World" by Forbes.

As Dr. Yunus heads towards Beijing for further talks with President Xi, the growing partnership between China and Bangladesh continues to strengthen, especially in areas of financial development, social business, and poverty reduction.