A prerecorded video speech by the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus was broadcast during the 48th Session of the Governing Council of IFAD at its headquarters in Rome on Wednesday. Photo: Chief Adviser GOB - Facebook page
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on the international community to engage with the "new Bangladesh" a nation he says emerged from a youth-led uprising against oppression and discrimination.
In a keynote speech at the 48th Session of the Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Prof. Yunus highlighted the transformation underway in Bangladesh. His prerecorded address was broadcast at the event held at IFAD headquarters in Rome.
While congratulating IFAD on its contributions to reducing global poverty and inequality, he acknowledged its four-decade-long partnership with Bangladesh, particularly in agriculture and climate resilience. He also praised IFAD-backed initiatives that empower rural women in the country.
Prof. Yunus introduced his ‘Social Business’ model as a sustainable approach to rural development, where businesses address community needs while ensuring long-term growth. He linked this to his Vision of a 3-Zero World—zero poverty through non-wealth concentration, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions.
He urged IFAD’s Governing Council to increase investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable agricultural practices, and renewable energy solutions to ensure rural prosperity in harmony with nature.
Calling for global leaders to create opportunities for the most vulnerable, Prof. Yunus also stressed the need to engage young people in development efforts.
"They (youths) have the creativity, innovation, and passion to make a better world for all," he stated.
Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Adviser for the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science & Technology, attended the council meeting as Bangladesh’s representative and IFAD governor.
