- Yunus returns after attending BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.
- Bangladesh assumes BIMSTEC chairmanship for two years.
- Yunus and Modi discuss bilateral relations amid regional tensions.
- BIMSTEC leaders agree to enhance trade and disaster relief efforts.
- Myanmar junta chief’s summit attendance sparks controversy.
Professor Muhammad Yunus came back to Dhaka on Friday night. He had attended the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Thailand. He also met several regional leaders during his trip.
A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight brought Yunus and his team home. They landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 10:05 pm. Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder confirmed the arrival time.
During the summit, Bangladesh took over BIMSTEC’s chairmanship for two years. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra handed it over. Yunus stressed the need for an inclusive and action-based BIMSTEC.
Bilateral Meeting Between Yunus and Modi
Yunus met Indian Prime Minister Modi during the summit. This was their first meeting since Yunus became Chief Adviser in August 2024. Modi urged him to avoid any divisive talk.
He also stressed the need to protect strong ties between both countries. Moreover, he raised concerns about minority treatment in Bangladesh. Modi asked for full investigations into the alleged atrocities.
BIMSTEC Summit Brings Cooperation, Controversy, and Commitments
During the summit, BIMSTEC leaders came together and agreed to boost trade and transport links. Moreover, they promised stronger disaster relief support. This decision followed a deadly earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. Naturally, leaders shared sympathy through a joint statement.
However, the summit didn’t go smoothly for everyone. Myanmar’s military leader Min Aung Hlaing showed up, which sparked criticism. After all, he led the 2021 coup. Interestingly, this was his first trip outside China, Russia, and Belarus since then.
Meanwhile, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held talks with him. They discussed disaster aid and border concerns. In addition, they covered illegal trade and drug smuggling. Still, their meeting raised many eyebrows.
On the other hand, Yunus’s presence showed Bangladesh’s serious focus on regional ties. Plus, Bangladesh took over the BIMSTEC chairmanship. Later, a meeting with Modi signaled efforts to fix India-Bangladesh issues. Overall, leaders showed clear intent to work for shared progress.