CA urges expatriates to bolster support for national recovery

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has called on Bangladeshi expatriates to provide enhanced support to help the interim government restore economic stability, following what he described as a financial collapse inherited from the previous administration.

Addressing a gathering of Bangladeshi expatriates at the Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo on Friday, Dr. Yunus acknowledged the critical role remittances have played in sustaining the country during a time of acute fiscal distress.

“When we took office last August, the state treasury and banks were nearly empty. The previous government had drained the resources. Without remittances, survival would have been impossible,” he said. “Your support gave us the space to begin recovery. Now, we need your help even more.”

The chief adviser said although the country has started to regain its footing, numerous challenges remain. “We have many pressing issues to address. Your continued support will help us implement the necessary reforms effectively,” he added.

Citing a recent interaction with a Japanese company, Dr. Yunus said Bangladesh remains committed to honoring its financial obligations. “A company expressed concern about delayed payments. We asked for some time to manage the funds. We have already repaid many debts, and we assured them that no payment will be lost. They were reassured by our transparency and record of repayment,” he stated.

He also encouraged expatriates to take a more proactive role in business development. “As members of the diaspora, you are better positioned to explore opportunities abroad. From Bangladesh, we cannot guide these efforts effectively. Those who want to return home must be willing to contribute to rebuilding the country as it is, not as they wish it to be,” he said.

Dr. Yunus emphasized the power of individual initiative. “Transformational movements begin with one or two people. Do not think that you alone cannot make a difference. The sacrifices made by students and activists must be honored through our collective commitment to change.”

Concluding his remarks, he underscored the importance of unity and collaboration. “Working together not only helps Bangladesh, but also enhances our standing with governments like Japan’s. From language training to employment opportunities, we must maximize the benefits available to us and safeguard them.”