Dhaka, Nov 14 (V7N) – Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bangladesh are free, fair, and inclusive. He made the pledge during a meeting with British Minister for International Development Baroness Jenny Chapman at the state guest house Jamuna in the capital on Thursday evening.

During the discussion, the two leaders addressed a wide range of issues, including the February general elections, curbing illegal immigration, expanding trade, the Rohingya crisis, and boosting cooperation in the aviation and maritime sectors.

Professor Yunus confirmed that the elections would be held as scheduled in the first half of February, emphasizing that they would be participatory with a high voter turnout. “Millions of young people will exercise their right to vote for the first time, as they were unable to vote in the three rigged elections of the last 16 years,” he said.

He also noted that the Awami League would be unable to participate in the elections due to its suspension under the Anti-Terrorism Act, and its removal from the list of registered political parties by the Election Commission.

The meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen trade and cooperation between Dhaka and London. Professor Yunus mentioned that Bangladesh is acquiring a research ship from the UK to enhance marine research in the Bay of Bengal. Minister Chapman highlighted potential collaboration in the aviation sector, noting that the head of Airbus International will visit Bangladesh soon.

The meeting was attended by National Security Advisor Dr. Khalilur Rahman, SDG Coordinator Lamia Morshed, and British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cook.

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