UK to Support Bangladesh in Recovering Billions in Laundered Funds

We want to assure you of our full cooperation on this issue," said West, emphasizing the UK’s willingness to assist Bangladesh in its efforts to repatriate money siphoned abroad during Sheikh Hasina's nearly 16-year rule.

Professor Yunus thanked the UK for its support, stating, "One of the caretaker government's top priorities is to recover the stolen wealth of corrupt politicians, oligarchs, and bureaucrats."

Quoting a recent report by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), Yunus highlighted that over $12 billion is illicitly transferred out of the country annually.

The Chief Adviser also briefed West on the government’s reform initiatives, including efforts to restructure key institutions like the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. West welcomed these reforms, noting, "It is crucial to have vibrant discussions on election, judiciary, and constitutional reforms."

Additionally, West announced a £10.3 million aid package to support Rohingya refugees and disaster-affected communities in Bangladesh. Yunus reiterated his call for the creation of a "UN-supervised safe zone" in Myanmar’s conflict-ridden Rakhine state to prevent further refugee influxes into Bangladesh.

The two sides also explored the possibility of forming a South Asian power grid. Yunus suggested that importing renewable energy from Nepal and Bhutan could help Bangladesh reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cook, revealed that a UK medical team is currently providing care to students injured during the July-August mass protests in Bangladesh. "They are performing three surgeries daily," Cook stated.