United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres concluded his Ramadan solidarity visit to Bangladesh on Sunday morning, expressing his hope that the country would become one of the most exemplary democracies in the world through ongoing reforms.
Guterres departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 9:55 am on Sunday.
Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and the Chief Adviser’s High Representative for Rohingya Affairs, Khalilur Rahman, were present at the airport to bid him farewell.
Before his departure, the UN Secretary-General spoke with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus over the phone, exchanging farewell greetings, according to the Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary, Abul Kalam Azad Majumder.
Prior to leaving Dhaka, Guterres reiterated his full support for Bangladesh’s reform efforts aimed at transforming the nation into “one of the most exemplary democracies” in the world.
During his visit, the Secretary-General met with several high-ranking officials, including Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Foreign Adviser Md Towhid Hossain, and High Representative Khalilur Rahman. He also visited the Rohingya camps, where he shared a Ramadan solidarity Iftar with approximately 10 million Rohingya refugees, accompanied by the Chief Adviser.
Guterres participated in a roundtable discussion on reforms and engaged with Bangladeshi youth representatives and members of civil society. During these discussions, he assured that Bangladesh could rely on the full support of the United Nations in its efforts to establish institutions capable of guiding the country towards “sustainable and inclusive” development.
At an iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Dr Yunus on Saturday, Guterres expressed his deep admiration for Dr Yunus and his team for their dedicated work. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to mobilising its resources to support Bangladesh’s reform initiatives.
The Secretary-General also highlighted Bangladesh’s significant contributions to the United Nations, particularly in peacekeeping operations. As one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, Bangladesh has thousands of soldiers serving in some of the world’s most challenging environments. “I want to pay tribute to the sacrifices and dedication of Bangladeshi peacekeepers,” Guterres remarked.
Regarding Bangladesh’s response to the Rohingya refugee crisis, Guterres praised the country’s “outstanding generosity” in providing support to over one million refugees. “You have set a remarkable example that others should follow,” he said.
He further emphasised that societies are “stronger and more resilient” when everyone can participate meaningfully in political, economic, and social life. The UN chief expressed his gratitude to civil society representatives for sharing their perspectives and commended Bangladeshi youth for their leadership and commitment to shaping the nation’s future. “Their dedication to equality, justice, and peace is inspiring, contributing to the global call by youth for action on social, economic, and climate justice,” he added.
At a media briefing on Saturday, Guterres acknowledged the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people for greater democracy, justice, and prosperity, recognising that the country is undergoing a “significant transition” under the leadership of Dr Yunus.
“This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh, and the international community must support your efforts towards a just, inclusive, and prosperous future,” he stated. As Bangladesh navigates these critical reforms and transitions, Guterres reaffirmed the UN’s readiness to assist in fostering peace, national dialogue, trust, and reconciliation.
“You can count on the UN to be a steadfast partner, working alongside the people of Bangladesh to help build a sustainable and equitable future for all,” he concluded.
