There can be no questioning Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus' recent words that Asia must step up and strengthen cooperation.
Indeed, this should serve as a critical reminder that many of the challenges that Bangladesh faces are also challenges many other nations continue to face or have faced in the not-so-distant past.
As the chief advisor rightly points out, a clear roadmap for shared prosperity is not just desirable, but essential for navigating the complex challenges of our time and that strengthened regional cooperation and better understanding would be of benefit to the entire region.
The call to action on four key areas -- financial cooperation, trade enhancement, food and agriculture, and technological advancement -- also hit the right notes for many nations who are soon transitioning as economies, and are yet to fulfil their potential as economies. As such, we expect all nations in the region to begin addressing these key areas with immediate effect through better collaboration and ties within the region.
Many Asian nations continue to bear the brunt of the climate crisis -- a crisis that few if any nations in the region have contributed to. As such, given the disproportionate adverse effects faced by the region, it is vital that we collectively share knowledge and expertise to address the increasingly difficult challenges, while simultaneously addressing the Global North as a collective when discussing climate financing.
By embracing the chief advisor’s vision for enhanced cooperation, Asian nations can unlock mutual benefits, foster shared prosperity, and create a more resilient and equitable future for all. Together, we will only grow in prosperity.
