UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday said that societies are "stronger and more resilient" in Bangladesh and around the world when everyone can play a "meaningful role" in political, economic, and social life.
The UN chief thanked representatives of civil society for sharing their views with him, reports UNB.
Guterres commended the youth of Bangladesh for their leadership and commitment to shaping the future of their country. "Their dedication to equality, justice, and peace is inspiring and contributes to the global call by youth for action towards social, economic, and climate justice," said the UN secretary-general.
Guterres will leave Dhaka at 9:55 am on Sunday, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB.
High Representative to the Chief Adviser for the Rohingya crisis and matters of priority, Khalilur Rahman, is scheduled to see him off at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
Guterres joined a roundtable discussion on reform proposals, attended by representatives of political parties, the National Consensus Building Commission, and other stakeholders.
UN Under-Secretary-General Rabab Fatima, Bangladesh’s Law Adviser Dr Asif, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, and representatives of other political parties, including Prof Ali Riaz, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Badiul Alam Majumdar, and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis, were present at the dialogue held at the InterContinental Dhaka hotel.
Guterres also attended another dialogue with youths and held a meeting with members of civil society.
Earlier in the morning, the UN Secretary-General officially opened a new "UN House in Bangladesh" in the city. Industries, Housing, and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan; Environment, Forests, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan; and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis were among those present.
The UN chief visited the new UN Common Premises to view the 50th-anniversary photo exhibition and participated in the official UN flag-raising ceremony. The visit was followed by a meeting with the UN Country Team Bangladesh.
Guterres and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain later took part in a joint press briefing before joining an iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.
At the media briefing, Guterres acknowledged the people’s hopes for a future of greater democracy, justice, and prosperity in Bangladesh as the country undergoes a "significant transition" under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr Yunus.
"This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh, and the international community must play its part in supporting your efforts toward a just, inclusive, and prosperous future," he said.
As the country undergoes important reforms and transitions, Guterres assured that the UN stands ready to assist in fostering peace, national dialogue, trust, and healing. “You can count on the UN to be your steadfast partner, working alongside the people of Bangladesh to help build a sustainable and equitable future for all,” said the UN chief.
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
