Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday said that global confidence in Bangladesh is growing, as top companies from around the world are now visiting the country to assess the situation first-hand.

“At the recent Bida Summit, some of the world’s leading companies, including several from Norway, came to witness our situation personally. They came not out of obligation, but driven by curiosity and a belief in what is possible here,” he said.

Professor Yunus made the remarks when the state secretary for International Development of Norway, Stine Renate Håheim, called on him at the State Guest House Jamuna. She reaffirmed Norway’s continued support for Bangladesh.

The chief adviser spoke about the challenges the country has faced in recent months. “Many lives were lost during the July uprising, and our economy suffered immense damage. The previous regime facilitated the laundering of an estimated $16 billion annually. Loans were treated as gifts, and we inherited a staggering amount of unpaid debt,” he said.

During the meeting, the Norwegian state secretary conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and highlighted Norway’s longstanding relationship with Bangladesh. “You are a well-known figure in Norway,” she told the chief adviser.

“Our prime minister often speaks of you with great admiration. You have been friends for a long time,” she added.

Professor Yunus reflected on the deep and historic ties between the two nations. “Norway has always stood by Bangladesh during critical moments. Your role in our development journey is undeniable,” he said.

Håheim emphasized Norway’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and democratic transitions. “We came here to show our support for the democratization of Bangladesh,” she said.

“The responsibility on your shoulders is immense, and expectations are high among the people of Bangladesh.”

The chief adviser also urged Norway to continue its support for Bangladesh on humanitarian issues, particularly concerning the forcibly displaced Rohingya population.

“These are real people with real aspirations. The young people of the Rohingya community need hope,” he said.

“Many of them arrived as children, aged seven or ten, and are now teenagers. They have grown up in camps. Every day, more children are born into a future of uncertainty. They want to return home, but remain stuck in limbo. We must not forget them,” the chief adviser added.

Håheim acknowledged the scale of the humanitarian crisis and reiterated Norway’s commitment. “We deeply appreciate how Bangladesh has taken the lead in addressing this challenge. We want to expand our relationship beyond development assistance and move toward a broader, more dynamic partnership,” she said.