Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has underscored the importance of reviving and strengthening the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), describing it as a “family of very close members” with significant untapped potential for regional integration.
Speaking at an event titled “A Conversation with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus”, hosted by the Asia Society in the United States and moderated by its President and CEO, Kyung-wha Kang, Prof Yunus emphasised that the concept of SAARC was originally initiated in Bangladesh to foster collaboration across South Asia.
“The vision was to enable young people to connect across borders—through education, business, cultural exchanges, and mobility. Our shared history offers the foundation to make this possible, yet political differences have constrained progress. It is time to reopen these opportunities and bring people together, as this is the only sustainable path to resolving regional challenges,” he said.
Prof Yunus highlighted the economic benefits of regional cooperation, noting that Bangladesh’s development should not be viewed solely within its own borders. “Our neighbours, such as Nepal, Bhutan, and India’s seven landlocked north-eastern states, stand to gain greatly from enhanced connectivity through Bangladesh. Greater access to markets and ports could transform the economic landscape of the entire region,” he observed.
Turning to ASEAN, Yunus noted that while consensus is difficult, particularly due to Myanmar’s internal challenges, Bangladesh remains committed to dialogue. “We believe these issues, including the Rohingya crisis, can and must be resolved. Conflict benefits no one. Ultimately, Rohingyas should be able to return to their homes and livelihoods in Myanmar, and we are hopeful that constructive relations can be restored,” he stated.
He also pointed to the possibility of Bangladesh pursuing informal engagement with ASEAN to strengthen economic and infrastructural interconnectivity across Asia. “ASEAN offers a valuable platform for regional harmony and economic integration, and Bangladesh could play an important bridging role,” he added.
Addressing current bilateral tensions, Prof Yunus acknowledged strains in relations with India. He criticised the circulation of misinformation and stressed the need for constructive dialogue to maintain stability.
On broader regional economic prospects, Yunus reiterated the central role of Bangladesh in fostering integration. “The regional economy flows through Bangladesh. Investment can come into Bangladesh, and in turn, Bangladesh will invest in its neighbours. This is the essence of the SAARC vision—mutual prosperity through cooperation,” he concluded.
