Election in early next year: Prof Yunus tells US Secretary of State Rubio

Seeking US support for the country's democratic transition, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday reaffirmed that elections would be held "in the early part of next year."

He also said the ongoing dialogue between his government and political parties would result in much-needed reforms of the country's political system. 

"The Election Commission is working hard to reorganise the electoral system, which was destroyed by the previous government. Our young people will vote for the first time in their lives," said Prof Yunus during a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

They held the telephone conversation at 7:30 pm. 

The 15-minute discussion was warm, cordial,l and constructive, reflecting the strong bilateral engagement between the two nations, said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

During the call, both leaders discussed the  issues of mutual interest, including Bangladesh's trade talks with the United States, ongoing reforms process, transition to democracy, upcoming general election and aid for Rohingya refugees. 

Secretary Rubio expressed support for Bangladesh's reform agenda and its move to hold elections early next year.

Highlighting that the US is Bangladesh's largest export destination and top source of remittances, both leaders expressed the hope for concluding talks on tariffs soon, paving the way for increased bilateral trade.

Professor Yunus mentioned that his National Security Adviser recently had an excellent meeting with Deputy Secretary of State Landau in Washington, D.C., and emphasised their commitment to strengthening bilateral bonds.

Chief Adviser Yunus also thanked President Trump for responding positively to his request to suspend reciprocal tariff measures on Bangladesh for 90 days, adding, "We are working with your officials to finalise a package of measures to effectively respond to President Trump's trade agenda."

The Chief Adviser commended Washington for its continued generous support to Rohingya refugee. The US has been the top donor to the Rohingya humanitarian responses since 2017.

"The prospect for a viable solution and repatriation of Rohingyas back to Myanmar is now better than ever before and Bangladesh is working on that," Prof Yunus said.

The two leaders also touched upon geopolitical issues, including the need for a stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region and Bangladesh's relationships with its neighbours. 

Chief Adviser Yunus invited Secretary Rubio to visit Bangladesh ahead of the general election to witness the country's transition to democracy firsthand, stating, "It will inspire our young people."