Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has urged the United Kingdom to support the development of the country’s health sector, emphasizing the need for trained professionals and stronger healthcare infrastructure.
During a meeting on Wednesday (April 9) at the State Guest House Jamuna, Dr. Yunus made the appeal to UK Trade Envoy Baroness Rosie Winterton. Highlighting the transitional nature of Bangladesh’s current governance, he said, “We are focusing on rebuilding institutions and redefining priorities.”
Dr. Yunus noted a shortage of skilled healthcare workers in Bangladesh, particularly nurses. “Nursing is not only a national issue, it’s a global necessity,” he said. “We want to train more nurses, not just for Bangladesh but for the global workforce.”
Baroness Winterton responded positively, stating that the UK is pleased with the ongoing reforms and values the longstanding, trustworthy partnership between the two nations.
Calling government-run healthcare programs “largely ineffective,” Dr. Yunus suggested the UK could play a crucial role in revitalizing the system. He also pointed to the pharmaceutical industry as a promising area, requesting UK support in lifting patent protections to allow affordable vaccine production under a social business model.
Beyond healthcare, the Chief Advisor welcomed UK collaboration in improving education, modernizing the textile industry, and exploring partnerships in defense and aviation through training and technology exchange.
Dr. Yunus also emphasized gender equality, saying, “Women’s empowerment is at the heart of our development strategy. We prioritize women’s participation across all sectors.”
Liberty News’ national affairs correspondent reports that the meeting was attended by BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun and Lamia Morshed, Chief Coordinator of the Chief Advisor’s Office.
LND/BG
