Chief Advisor of the Interim Government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has declared that Bangladesh must break free from economic dependence, stating, “We do not want to live in slavery.” In his call to action, he emphasized the urgent need to build a self-reliant economy that can empower the nation and ensure its independence in the global arena.

Speaking at a discussion on Bangladesh’s transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, held on Wednesday (October 8) at the Chief Advisor’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, Dr. Yunus said, “We must be clear that we no longer wish to rely on others. We have to become self-sufficient. Since we are still dependent, we must focus on moving away from that as quickly as possible. There is no alternative.”

Presiding over the meeting, which included several members of the Advisory Council, business leaders, and senior officials, Dr. Yunus stressed the importance of changing long-standing habits. “To become self-reliant, we need to apply our intellect, work hard, and be ready to struggle. It may be difficult, but there is joy in the journey,” he said.

He reiterated his vision for a “New Bangladesh,” explaining that it must be built on self-sufficiency and national capability. “This nation has enough strength to stand on its own. Our youth and their creativity are our greatest assets. We must harness this strength and seize the opportunities before us,” he added.

The meeting was attended by Economic Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Planning Advisor Wahiduddin Mahmud, Commerce Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin, Industry Advisor Adilur Rahman Khan, Foreign Affairs Advisor Towhid Hossain, and several others, including senior officials from Bangladesh Bank, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), and various ministries.

Following the meeting, the Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, briefed the media at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy, sharing key points from Dr. Yunus’s speech and the discussions held during the event.