Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus hosted a state banquet in Dhaka in honor of visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, celebrating the deep historical, diplomatic, and cultural ties between Bangladesh and Bhutan. The banquet followed PM Tobgay's two-day state visit and earlier bilateral discussions.
Personal Connection: Prof. Yunus welcomed Tobgay as a close friend, noting he was the first dignitary he met at an international conference. He praised Tobgay as a "dedicated leader" with a "broad global view."
He recalled Bhutan's historic first recognition of Bangladesh as an independent state more than five decades ago, calling it a "timeless gesture of solidarity."
He emphasized shared history, cultural harmony (rooted in Bengali monks and Buddhist scholars), and a common commitment to "human dignity" and "collective good."
Yunus noted the visit comes at a "significant time for Bangladesh" as the country focuses on "strengthening democratic governance, revitalizing institutions," and ensuring inclusive development.
Earlier bilateral talks covered enhancing cooperation in trade, sub-regional energy, education, tourism, and connectivity, which Yunus hopes will elevate the partnership.
He praised Bhutan's development philosophy and its status as the world's first carbon negative nation. Yunus affirmed Bangladesh shares the same human development aspirations, including the "three zeros" (zero net carbon, zero poverty/wealth concentration, and zero unemployment).
PM Tobgay sincerely thanked the Chief Adviser and his delegation for the "Bangla graciousness and warm hospitality." He acknowledged Prof. Yunus's distinguished place in global history as a Nobel laureate and praised his "pioneering contributions" to development, highlighting the "three zeros" concept as "valuable lessons." He also acknowledged Yunus's immense responsibilities as Chief Adviser during this pivotal juncture.
Tobgay noted that the cooperation in human resource development, trade, and connectivity has steadily deepened over the years, and the two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed earlier in the day would further strengthen the partnership. He expressed confidence that the relationship, forged by history and mutual trust, will continue to flourish, setting the stage for new chapters of cooperation.
The evening concluded with a cultural function and a call for a renewed commitment to the "bond of history standing by trust."
