Chief Adviser (CA) Prof Muhammad Yunus has sought greater collaboration with the United Kingdom (UK) in strengthening Bangladesh's healthcare system, reports UNB.
The issue was discussed during a meeting with UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh Baroness Rosie Winterton at the State Guest House Jamuna in the capital on Wednesday.
Regarding the timing of the next general election, the CA reiterated that if political parties agree on a shorter reform process, elections could take place in December, according to CA's press wing.
"But if a more extensive reform path is chosen, the election can be held by June," he added.
Highlighting Bangladesh's pressing need for a skilled healthcare workforce, Prof Yunus said, "We currently have a shortage of nurses. But nursing is not just a national concern-it's a global necessity. We want to train more nurses not only for Bangladesh but also for the world."
The CA invited UK's support to strengthen Bangladesh's under-resourced health sector and noted that the government-run health programmes are nearly non-functional.
"This is where the UK can play a vital role. Another promising area is pharmaceuticals. We urge you to support global access to vaccines by advocating for lifting patent protections so that every country can produce them affordably under a social business model," he said.
During the meeting, both sides reiterated their commitment to deepening bilateral ties, with Baroness Winterton acknowledging the 'long and trusted history' between the two nations.
"We have a long history together, and we are pleased to see the direction of reforms being undertaken," she said.
Prof Yunus said the country is passing through a transformative moment. "It's a very critical time for us. We are focused on rebuilding institutions and reshaping priorities," he said.
The two sides also discussed broader areas of strategic cooperation, including education, the textile industry, defence, and aviation.
Prof Yunus said, "We welcome UK support in improving our education system, modernising our textile sector, and exploring new areas of collaboration in defence and aviation."
Both leaders expressed interest in greater training, technology exchange, and long-term partnerships across these sectors.
