Remittances gave birth to a new Bangladesh, Yunus tells NRBs

Highlighting the significant presence of the Bangladeshi diaspora worldwide, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) to engage more dynamically with their knowledge, experience and investment.

"Look at the Bangladesh map in a different way. Bangladesh is truly spread all over the world. There is no distance between us. You are very much part of Bangladesh," he said while addressing a large gathering of NRBs in New York on Saturday evening.

Yunus acknowledged the invaluable contributions of NRBs, mentioning that their remittances have been central to strengthening the country's economy.

"Our economy had totally collapsed. Nothing was left. The economy kept drifting from bottom to bottom. Who has helped the economy bounce back? It was remittance. Remittances gave birth to a new Bangladesh," he said amid huge claps from the audience.

The event titled, "NRB Connect Day: Empowering Global Bangladeshis", was jointly hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).

Visiting political leaders -- BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul, Foreign Adviser to BNP Chairman Humayun Kabir, Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, Jamaat-e-Islami US Spokesperson Mohammad Nakibur Rahman, National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhter Hossen, and Senior Joint Member Secretary Tasnim Jara -- spoke at the event.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman, BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud also addressed the programme.

Describing NRBs as an integral part of Bangladesh, the chief adviser emphasised that they can play a vital role in advancing the changes ushered in by the July uprising through their respective contributions.

"We had always planned to involve you and explore ways to ensure your engagement. Seeing you all here strengthens our resolve to return home with renewed determination," he said.

Encouraging the NRBs to participate more actively, Yunus said, "It is very easy to speak from the gallery. But we want you to join us on the field and play together."

"My confidence grew when I saw political leaders agreeing to join us on this visit," Yunus added, expressing strong optimism about Bangladesh future.

The CA also launched a mobile application named Shubheccha, designed to provide NRBs with essential services, guidance, and investment opportunities.

BIDA Executive Chairman Ashik highlighted various features of the app, including its three key tracks: Citizen Services, Community Engagement, and Investment (facilities offered by Bangladesh).

Yunus assured expatriate Bangladeshis that their concerns would be addressed gradually.

"Let's first make sure your voting rights are ensured, an opportunity that has long been missing," he said.

Yunus also emphasised the importance of strengthening the regional economy, exploring the blue economy, and utilising ocean resources, including gas exploration.

He noted that Bangladesh is fortunate to be part of the Bay of Bengal.

On the possibility of developing more deep-sea ports, the chief adviser said, "Once proper facilities are in place, everyone will come to Bangladesh, just as they do in Singapore."

He said the July uprising instilled a spirit of unity that must not be lost. "It has given us the strength to realise our dreams," he said.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir called for unity in national interest.

"We have only one appeal -- let's come together on one issue -- for Bangladesh. Let's put Bangladesh first," he said.

The BNP leader stressed the need to carry forward the dreams of the youth, who are showing the nation new horizons.

He expressed optimism over women's active participation in Bangladesh's democratic journey ahead.

Jamaat leader Taher reiterated his party's commitment to building a corruption-free Bangladesh and urged non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) to actively participate in nation-building efforts.

He assured expatriates that they would be provided with all facilities, including voting rights without making things complicated for them.

NCP leader Akhter Hossen said, "We have taken a very strong position to ensure your voting rights. We hope you will play a significant role in rebuilding Bangladesh."

Tasnim Jara described the present as a "very critical moment" and expressed optimism for a new Bangladesh where every citizen will have a voice and dignity.

She added that while differences of opinion will remain, the country must never return to old politics and the politics of violence.