Yunus-Tarique meeting could be a 'turning point': Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has confirmed that a meeting is set to take place in London between Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the interim government, and Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the BNP. Fakhrul described the upcoming meeting as potentially a "turning point" in Bangladesh's current political landscape.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday morning (June 10) during an Eid greetings event at the BNP Chairperson’s political office in Gulshan, Fakhrul highlighted the significance of the meeting.

He announced that the meeting is scheduled for Friday, June 13, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM (London time), and added that the BNP’s Standing Committee has welcomed the initiative.

“This meeting holds significant national and international importance. It could open up many new dimensions,” Fakhrul said.

He further noted that the party’s Standing Committee has authorized Tarique Rahman to take decisions on any matter discussed.

Expressing optimism, Fakhrul said, “We believe this meeting could pave the way for resolving many pressing issues. There is now a real opportunity to overcome the ongoing political stalemate. This dialogue, in the national interest, is a timely and important step forward.”

While no formal agenda has been set for the talks, Fakhrul emphasized its broader relevance in the national and international context. He urged all parties to act responsibly so that the country’s democratic process remains uninterrupted.

“National unity is crucial at this juncture,” he added.

When asked how the BNP would respond if the government holds elections in April, Fakhrul said the party has not yet made a decision.

“We are not considering that scenario yet. April is not a logical time for elections, and we expect the government to take that into account.”

Addressing claims that the BNP only wants elections, not reforms, Fakhrul dismissed such assertions as baseless.

“This propaganda has no foundation. The BNP is a party that cannot be written off — and never will be,” he asserted.