Bangladesh is prepared to hold national elections by mid-February, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus reiterated on Tuesday.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim in Putrajaya, Professor Yunus said the interim government had restored law and order and stabilised the economy within its first year in office, paving the way for the polls.
During their bilateral meeting at Perdana Putra, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to transforming Bangladesh-Malaysia relations into a deeper, future-oriented strategic partnership.
“Our two countries share a deep bond rooted in history, religion, and cultural empathy. Malaysia is a unique partner of Bangladesh, particularly in human resources, trade, and people-to-people contacts,” Professor Yunus said.
Prime Minister Anwar praised Professor Yunus as “a friend of Malaysia” and emphasised cooperation in trade, migrant worker welfare, education, and efforts to resolve the Rohingya crisis.
Professor Yunus sought Malaysia’s continued support on the Rohingya issue and invited participation in upcoming conferences in Cox’s Bazar and New York.
The talks covered a wide range of issues, including recruitment of more skilled Bangladeshi professionals, regularisation of undocumented workers, enhanced social security rights, and “Graduate Pass” visas for Bangladeshi students in Malaysia.
On the economic front, the two sides agreed to accelerate negotiations on a Bangladesh-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement, boost investment through Special Economic Zones, and operationalise the Malaysia-Bangladesh Joint Business Council.
Bangladesh requested greater market access for its products and sought Malaysian collaboration in the Blue Economy and Halal industry.
Several agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed, covering defence cooperation, LNG supply, energy collaboration, Halal industry development, higher education, and strategic studies.
Earlier, Professor Yunus was accorded a red-carpet welcome with a Guard of Honour.
Prime Minister Anwar later hosted a luncheon in his honour.
The Bangladeshi delegation included government advisers, senior officials, and business leaders.
