Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today hosted a state banquet in a city hotel in honour of visiting Bhutanese premier Tshering Tobgay who arrived here this morning on a two-day state visit.
The Chief Adviser exchanged pleasantries with the invited guests and inquired about their wellbeing.
Advisers of the interim government and political leaders also joined the dinner, followed by a cultural function.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Adviser Professor Yunus highlighted the deep historical and diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Bhutan, describing the relationship as one grounded in longstanding solidarity, cultural harmony and mutual respect.
Welcoming the Bhutanese Prime Minister, the Chief Adviser said, “By its strange coincidence, he was the first dignitary that I met in the international conference . . . immediately we became very close friends. He is so amazing person. We are so happy to welcome you.”
Prof Yunus praised Tobgay as “a dedicated leader” with “a broad global view” and said that “the whole Bhutan is a very good friend of Bangladesh”.
He recalled Bhutan’s historic decision to recognize Bangladesh as an independent state, noting that this “remains a timeless gesture of solidarity” that continues to guide “our relationship more than five decades later”.
The Chief Adviser emphasised shared history and culture between the two countries, stating that relations are also grounded in “deep reverence for numerous Bengali monks and Buddhist scholars,” whose influence continues to shape ties between the two nations.
He highlighted the countries’ common commitment to “human dignity, collective good and the wealth of our people.”
“Actually, your visit comes at a significant time for Bangladesh as we are passing through a historic moment of national democracy. Strengthening democratic governance, revitalizing institutions and ensuring development remains inclusive, equitable and just,” Prof Yunus said.
“As Bangladesh starts on a new journey, we anticipate the understanding and support of our neighbours and close friends,” he added.
Referring to bilateral discussions earlier in the day, the Chief Adviser said they covered cooperation in trade, sub-regional energy, education, tourism, connectivity and beyond, adding that the meeting would open avenues for elevating partnership for the benefit of the people of the two countries.
Commending Bhutan’s development philosophy, inspired by the vision of the fourth King, he said it serves as a reminder that economic progress must always remain connected to human well-being.
Bangladesh shares the same human development philosophy and aspirations towards zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration to end poverty, zero unemployment through entrepreneurship, Prof Yunus said, adding, Bangladesh remains committed to working closely with regional partners like Bhutan to share knowledge.
He highly commended Bhutan that continues to advance its remarkable achievement as the world’s first carbon negative nation in the world.
“We also deeply appreciate Bhutan’s initiative at COP including the formation of alliances,” the Chief Adviser said, adding, “Let’s hope the alliance of Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal continues to initiate climate justice for our economy in transition in line with the recent judgment of ICC.”
He called for renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, describing the friendship as “a bond of history standing by trust and longing for a brighter future.” He expressed hope that the Bhutanese delegation’s visit would be “productive, pleasant and memorable,” and ended with a tribute: “Long live Bangladesh, Bhutan friends.”
Prof Yunus called for renewed commitment to nurture the bond between Bangladesh and Bhutan, a fr
