Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will attend the World Governments Summit 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 11-13.
Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum invited the chief adviser to the summit on January 13, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"The chief adviser will have the opportunity to present Bangladesh's position on global challenges and international issues," foreign ministry spokesperson Rafiqul Alam said at a media briefing today.
Apart from attending the summit, Yunus is expected to hold bilateral meetings with heads of state and government representatives from various countries. He may also engage in discussions with political and business leaders attending the event, Rafiqul added.
Established in 2013 under the leadership of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the World Governments Summit serves as a global platform for exchanging governance strategies and innovations. Over the past decade, it has brought together policymakers, international organisations, thought leaders, and private sector representatives from over 140 countries.
Rafiqul said that this year's summit aims to enhance global cooperation, foster partnerships between governments, and strengthen engagement between states and their citizens.
Bangladesh and the UAE share strong diplomatic and economic ties, further reinforced by trade and a significant Bangladeshi expatriate community in the Gulf nation. Many Bangladeshi workers in the UAE contribute to Bangladesh's economy through remittances, while bilateral trade continues to expand in sectors such as textiles, agriculture, and energy.
Asked about the ongoing visa restrictions for Bangladeshis, Rafiqul said the issue would be raised during bilateral discussions at the summit.