Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has announced that the upcoming national election in Bangladesh is being planned as the best and most historic election in the country’s history, aiming to set a democratic benchmark. He made these remarks during a meeting with Norwegian Ambassador Haakon Harald Gulbrandsen at the Chief Adviser’s office on Sunday, January 12.
During the meeting, Dr. Yunus urged Norway to consider using Bangladesh as a regional hub for distributing Norwegian products in Asia. He emphasized the importance of utilizing Bangladesh’s youth population for foreign investments. Citing the success of Telenor’s venture with Grameenphone, Dr. Yunus highlighted how partnerships with Bangladesh can be highly profitable.
The Norwegian Ambassador handed over a letter from Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, reaffirming Norway’s strong support for the interim government’s efforts toward democratic reforms and fair elections. The letter also commended Bangladesh’s commitment to human rights and environmental sustainability. Ambassador Gulbrandsen further expressed Norway’s interest in working closely with Bangladesh in shipbuilding and green energy transition.
Regarding the Rohingya crisis, the Chief Adviser sought Norway’s assistance in resolving the issue given its experience in peace negotiations. He stated, “Norway has played a significant role in global peace processes, and your support is crucial in solving the Rohingya issue.”
In response, the Ambassador assured that Norway remains committed to collaborating with Bangladesh on global issues, including Palestine, international taxation, and plastic pollution. Additionally, the Deputy Head of Mission at the Norwegian Embassy, Marianne Rabe Nevelsrud, expressed gratitude to Bangladesh for its support of a UN resolution led by Norway to deliver humanitarian aid to Palestine.
