Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has indicated that national elections in Bangladesh could be held in December this year. He made the announcement during a meeting with European Union (EU) Commissioner for Equality, Readiness, and Crisis Management, Hajda Lahbib, at the state guesthouse Jamuna in Dhaka on Monday (March 3).

During the meeting, Professor Yunus reiterated the interim government’s commitment to ensuring a free and fair election. He also sought EU support for importing hydropower from Nepal, emphasizing that it would facilitate Bangladesh’s transition to renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. "We talk about renewable energy, and this is renewable energy. Both Nepal and Bhutan are eager to sell energy to us," he said.

EU Commissioner Lahbib announced that the EU would provide €68 million in aid this year to address the Rohingya crisis and support people affected by the conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. She noted that while the amount is higher than last year’s initial contribution, it remains insufficient to prevent the worsening humanitarian conditions in the camps due to increasing funding gaps.

Professor Yunus reaffirmed his government’s continued support for resolving the Rohingya crisis, describing it as a significant and long-standing challenge for Bangladesh. "This is a major issue for us. It has been ongoing for many years, but there is no solution in sight. There is no expiration date for this crisis," he said.

The Chief Adviser also highlighted the importance of international attention on the Rohingya crisis, mentioning the upcoming visit of the UN Secretary-General. "Your visit to Bangladesh is a pleasure for us. The UN Secretary-General is also coming. We are trying to draw international attention to the Rohingya crisis," he added.

Commissioner Lahbib emphasized that peace is the only solution to the crisis and stressed the need for preparedness to tackle all types of disasters, including misinformation campaigns. During the hour-long meeting, the two leaders discussed hydropower imports, flood management, climate change, and the interim government’s reform initiatives.

Lahbib praised Professor Yunus’s leadership during the country’s critical moments, stating, "You have done extraordinary work in extraordinary times. My key message is—we are ready to strengthen our cooperation." She reiterated the EU’s support for the interim government’s reform programs, acknowledging the challenges of implementing change. "We are witnessing a crucial strategic moment. We know that bringing about change always faces resistance. There is still much to be done, and we stand by your side," she said.

The discussions also focused on enhancing collaboration in disaster preparedness, management, and climate change, particularly in flood control. The EU expressed readiness to assist Bangladesh in sharing best practices and strategic preparedness.