Yunus to Undertake 11th Official Trip Abroad in Less Than a Year
Bangladesh’s interim government head, Chief Advisor Muhammud Yunus, is preparing for his eleventh international visit since assuming office just ten months ago. Scheduled from June 9 to June 13, 2025, this trip to the United Kingdom aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and address significant political and economic matters.
Meetings with UK Leadership and Political Figures
During his UK visit, Yunus is slated to meet with prominent figures including His Majesty King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These high-level discussions reportedly will span a range of topics, from bilateral relations to Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections.
In addition, there are indications that Yunus may engage in confidential talks with Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The BNP has been vocal about its demand for national elections to be held by December, which contrasts with Yunus’s earlier announcement that polls will occur in the first half of April 2025.
Addressing Political Tensions and Misunderstandings
Political dynamics remain complex, especially after UK Member of Parliament Tulip Siddiq, connected to former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, expressed interest in meeting Yunus. Siddiq aims to clarify misunderstandings stemming from corruption allegations linked to Yunus’s administration—claims that ultimately led to her resignation from a UK government position.
However, Bangladesh’s government has yet to confirm receiving Siddiq’s request for a meeting. A government spokesperson acknowledged the letter's existence has not been verified and declined to comment further.
Receiving the Prestigious Harmony Award 2025
A highlight of the visit will be the conferral of the Harmony Award 2025 on Chief Advisor Yunus by King Charles III. The ceremony, held on June 12 at St James's Palace in London, recognizes Yunus’s dedication to fostering peace, sustainability, and harmony between communities and the environment.
Diplomatic Engagements to Boost International Cooperation
Yunus is also scheduled to meet the Secretaries-General of the Commonwealth and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), underscoring Bangladesh’s efforts to broaden its international engagement.
Notably, the meeting with the IMO is significant given its role in regulating global maritime operations. Bangladesh is keen to highlight the strategic importance of its Chittagong Port, a key hub where substantial investments—particularly from China—are planned to enhance regional trade and infrastructure.
Conclusion
This upcoming journey further illustrates Chief Advisor Muhammud Yunus’s active diplomatic agenda during his tenure. It reflects Bangladesh’s ambition to secure political stability, attract international support, and strengthen its economic prospects on the global stage.
