April 7, 2025
DHAKA – Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has sought support from Thai elites in Bangladesh’s efforts to join the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Bangladesh plans to join the ASEAN as its sectoral dialogue partner, but Prof Yunus said the ultimate goal is to become a full member of the key regional group.
“That is where our future is,” the chief adviser told Thai dignitaries at a breakfast meeting at a Bangkok hotel today.
Prof Yunus is currently attending the sixth BIMSTEC Summit in the Thai capital.
The chief adviser said Bangladesh believes in multilateralism, and it is a proud member of SAARC and BIMSTEC. He emphasised that regional groups should step up their efforts to foster economic growth and bring people closer.
Thai leaders, including former Thailand Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, a former deputy prime minister, top business leaders, bankers, academics and civil society leaders, joined the meeting.
Prof Yunus said Bangladesh hopes to get support from top ASEAN nations, including Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, for its membership bid.
He also stressed greater collaboration between the peoples of Thailand and Bangladesh, saying both nations share similar histories and challenges.
“This will be the beginning of the relationship we want to build,” he said, referring to the meeting.
The chief adviser also weighed in on recent developments in global trade, saying the world could use the “disorder” to its benefit.
“Disorder can shake up things,” he said.
“We need greater collaboration. Can we rethink a new business model?” he added.
Prof Yunus highlighted recent changes in Bangladesh and the student-led uprising, which has toppled a brutal dictatorship and helped usher in a new era in the country.
Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain, High Representative of the CA Dr Khalilur Rahman, SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin were also present during the meeting.