Yunus Flags ‘Northeast’ in Farewell Address

Outgoing Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus on Monday said his interim government had restored the country’s sovereignty and independent foreign policy, as he delivered a televised farewell address ahead of handing over power.

Yunus is set to step down a day before a new government led by Tarique Rahman takes office. Tarique, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is scheduled to be sworn in as prime minister along with his cabinet.

Emphasis on sovereignty

In his address, Yunus said Bangladesh was no longer pursuing what he described as a “submissive” foreign policy. He stated that the country would act confidently and responsibly in protecting its national interests.

His remarks were widely seen as a reference to the previous administration of Sheikh Hasina, whose tenure was marked by close ties with India. Yunus did not name Hasina directly but underlined that Bangladesh would not depend on the “instructions and advice” of other countries.

Mention of Northeast region

During the nearly 25-minute speech, Yunus highlighted the economic potential of cooperation with the “Northeast region,” including India’s northeastern states as well as Nepal and Bhutan.

He said Bangladesh could help unlock economic growth for the broader region through economic zones, trade agreements and access to duty-free markets. According to Yunus, such measures could help position the region as a global manufacturing hub.

He also referred to Bangladesh’s maritime access, describing the country’s coastline as a gateway to global trade rather than just a geographical boundary.

Strained India ties

Yunus’s comments come amid strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka. Last year, his remarks about India’s landlocked northeastern states and their economic prospects had drawn attention and reportedly added tension to bilateral relations.

Relations had already cooled following the political transition that led to Hasina’s exit from office.

Farewell ceremony

Earlier in the day, Yunus attended a brief farewell event at his office, marking the end of his tenure that began on August 8, 2024. In his address to officials, he thanked them for their support during the interim administration.

His time in office coincided with political uncertainty and domestic challenges. However, in his final speech to the nation, Yunus focused primarily on foreign policy direction and regional economic cooperation.

Transition of power

With Tarique Rahman set to assume office, Bangladesh is entering a new political phase. The formal transfer of power is expected to take place on Tuesday during the swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka.

The change in leadership will be closely watched across South Asia, particularly in India, given the recent diplomatic sensitivities and Yunus’s remarks regarding regional economic integration.

As Bangladesh moves forward under a new government, Yunus’s final message centred on asserting national sovereignty while promoting regional economic collaboration, especially involving the Northeast corridor.