CA Proposes Four Key Agendas for BIMSTEC's Future

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus

In his speech, Dr. Yunus emphasized the power of youth, highlighting the dynamic energy and drive of young Bangladeshis who are actively engaged in reforming long-established governance practices. He urged BIMSTEC nations to harness this youthful potential, stating, "Bangladeshi youth are showing remarkable intent and action in shaping the future."

One of the Chief Adviser's proposals centered on the need for a more inclusive approach to integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and tools related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). He recommended the rollout of initiatives that connect farming, learning, and healthcare, particularly targeting the vast population of smallholder farmers across the region.

In his second agenda, Prof. Yunus called for expanding opportunities for BIMSTEC countries and their communities to engage more deeply in the knowledge economy. He urged the region to innovate, generate, and share intellectual resources to strengthen collective capacities.

The third proposal focused on creating an ecosystem that goes beyond government action, where private sector actors, civil society, and other non-governmental entities collaborate with BIMSTEC to tackle pressing regional challenges. These include public health crises, natural disasters, and climate adaptation.

Lastly, Prof. Yunus stressed the urgency of transformation. “Time is not on our side. We need to transform, not just transition,” he said. He underscored Bangladesh’s vision of a world defined by three key goals: Zero Poverty, Zero Unemployment, and Zero Carbon.

Looking ahead, as Bangladesh prepares to take over the BIMSTEC Chairmanship for the next two years, Dr. Yunus expressed his eagerness to host all BIMSTEC leaders in Dhaka. "We look forward to welcoming our partners to Dhaka and working together to implement these crucial agendas," he concluded.