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Dhaka, June 17, 2025 – Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the Interim Government, expressed gratitude to Australia for resuming visa operations in Dhaka. The announcement came during a courtesy meeting with Australia’s newly appointed High Commissioner, Susan Ryle, at the state guesthouse Jamuna on Tuesday.
High Commissioner Ryle informed that Bangladeshi citizens can now apply for Australian visas online. She noted that approximately 65,000 Bangladeshis, including 14,000 students, currently reside in Australia.
The meeting covered ongoing reforms by the interim government, preparations for the upcoming national election, bilateral trade expansion, and the Rohingya crisis. Dr. Yunus emphasized the government’s focus on constitutional, judicial, and administrative reforms to build a stronger Bangladesh. He highlighted efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election, involving all political parties, and announced plans to unveil the “July Charter” next month.
Expressing optimism about the election, Dr. Yunus stated, “After many years, voters, especially first-time voters, will experience a festive election.” High Commissioner Ryle pledged Australia’s support, announcing AUD 2 million through UNDP to enhance the Bangladesh Election Commission’s institutional, technical, and operational capacities.
On bilateral trade, Ryle noted that trade between the two nations has surpassed AUD 5 billion, growing at 16.2% over the past five years. She also highlighted the contributions of over 3,000 Bangladeshi alumni of the Australia Awards, who are playing significant roles in Bangladesh’s development. Dr. Yunus urged Australia to increase scholarships for Bangladeshi students.
Regarding the Rohingya crisis, Dr. Yunus called for increased humanitarian aid for over one million displaced Rohingyas. Ryle confirmed Australia’s recent contribution of AUD 9.6 million, bringing its total aid since 2017 to AUD 553.6 million. She assured continued support for a safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar when conditions allow.
High Commissioner Ryle expressed enthusiasm about her new role, citing her long-standing admiration for Bangladesh’s vibrant culture and dynamic political landscape.
Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator Lamia Morshed from the Prime Minister’s Office and Mohammad Nure Alam, Director General of the East Asia and Pacific Wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were present at the meeting.
AI/MR
