CA Calls for Global Engagement with New Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus

He made the plea in a prerecorded keynote speech delivered at the 48th session of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in Rome.

In his address, Prof Yunus praised IFAD’s longstanding role in addressing global poverty and inequality, highlighting its 40 years of collaboration with Bangladesh, particularly in the fields of agriculture and climate resilience. He commended IFAD’s efforts in empowering rural women through its development projects, which have contributed to tangible improvements in rural livelihoods across the country.

The Nobel laureate also outlined his 'Social Business' concept as a groundbreaking model for rural development. This model, he explained, fosters a cycle of growth where businesses thrive by directly addressing community needs, creating sustainable, long-term social and economic benefits.

Drawing connections between IFAD’s mission and his vision of a '3-zero' world—zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions—Prof Yunus urged the Governing Council to prioritize investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy solutions. These, he argued, are essential for ensuring that rural communities can prosper in harmony with the environment.

He called on IFAD Member States to leverage their resources for the most vulnerable populations, fostering a world where no one is left behind. Prof Yunus also emphasized the critical role of youth and students as future leaders and agents of change. “They possess the creativity, innovation, and passion necessary to build a better world for all,” he stated.

Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Advisor to the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Science & Technology, represented Bangladesh at the IFAD meeting as a member of the IFAD Governing Board.