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CA Seeks Global Support to Recover Laundered Money
Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus, on the second day of his busy schedule at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland (22 January), sought international support for the recovery of significant amounts of laundered money from Bangladesh.
During his time at the annual WEF meeting, Yunus met with a range of global leaders, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Germany's Federal Minister Wolfgang Schmidt, Belgium's King Philippe, Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Switzerland's Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the UAE, Congo President Felix Tshisekedi, former US Secretary of State John Kerry, and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, among others.
The Chief Adviser highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption, emphasizing the need for international assistance in recovering funds illegally siphoned off during what he described as "plain and daylight robbery" under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule. Yunus urged the global community to send experts, think tanks, journalists, and international organizations to investigate these alleged financial crimes.
In his discussion with German Minister Schmidt, Yunus underscored the interim government’s commitment to restoring integrity in Bangladesh, stating, “When we talk about a new Bangladesh, we also talk about a clean Bangladesh." He also provided an update on the government's strategy, which initially targets the top 20 money launderers to recoup stolen assets.
Additionally, Yunus briefed global leaders on Bangladesh’s efforts to foster regional economic collaboration, particularly with Nepal, India, and Bhutan. He proposed creating an economic platform to tap into Nepal’s hydroelectric potential, which could help reduce the region’s dependence on fossil fuels and generate jobs. Yunus also discussed Bangladesh's energy security with Schmidt and Cassis.
In his meetings with Thailand’s Prime Minister Shinawatra, Yunus addressed the ongoing Rohingya crisis, urging for swift resolution as the number of refugees continues to grow. He also explored opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation, particularly in shipping, to support both countries.
Throughout the high-level discussions, Yunus emphasized the importance of reforms within Bangladesh’s interim government, outlining plans for a corruption-free future and fair upcoming general elections.