German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed his government’s commitment to assisting Bangladesh in its efforts toward democratic reform.
The remarks came during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Chancellor Scholz assured Prof. Yunus of Germany's full support as the Chief Adviser detailed the ongoing reform initiatives led by the Interim Government. Prof. Yunus emphasized the role of the consensus commission he chairs, which is tasked with building agreement among political parties on significant reform proposals. These efforts aim to culminate in a July Charter, symbolizing the democratic aspirations of the youth-led movements in Bangladesh.
The discussion covered several key topics, including the events leading to the student uprising, Bangladesh's regional relationships, the Rohingya crisis, and Myanmar's security challenges. Prof. Yunus shared a poignant story of a young student who sacrificed his life for the cause, symbolizing the passion driving Bangladesh’s democratic transformation.
Prof. Yunus also highlighted the potential for stronger economic ties between Germany and Bangladesh. He urged Chancellor Scholz to encourage German businesses to explore opportunities in Bangladesh, describing the country as an ideal manufacturing hub. Additionally, he called for increased German investment and collaboration in renewable energy projects, including the development of hydroelectric power sourced from Nepal to benefit South Asia.
The Chief Adviser further sought Germany’s support for the creation of a UN-supervised safe zone for Rohingya refugees in Myanmar's Rakhine State, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address the humanitarian crisis.
The meeting underscored the shared vision for advancing democracy, economic partnerships, and regional stability between the two nations.