United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed his full support and solidarity with Bangladesh’s ongoing democratic transition and reform initiatives.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the UN Headquarters here on Monday.

Professor Muhammad Yunus led a high-level delegation that included Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain and National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Principal Secretary Siraj Uddin Miah and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including political reforms, preparations for the upcoming general election scheduled for February, accountability for the atrocities committed during the July uprising, global trade concerns surrounding protectionist tariff measures, and the upcoming International Rohingya Conference set for tomorrow (September 30).

The Chief Adviser briefed the Secretary-General on the reform measures undertaken by the interim government and its commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.

"The next few months will be crucial. We need your support for the election," Professor Yunus said, highlighting that the ousted regime and its allies were funding disinformation campaigns using stolen assets in a bid to destabilize the country ahead of the vote.

“They do not want an election in February. Certain international quarters are backing them,” he added.

In response, Secretary-General Guterres reaffirmed the UN's strong support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and reform agenda. He also reiterated the UN’s ongoing commitment to global advocacy for a durable solution to the Rohingya crisis.

He also commended the efforts of the Chief Adviser over the last 14 months, saying he respects and admires his leadership in guiding this difficult transition in Bangladesh.

The Chief Adviser expressed gratitude to the Secretary-General for convening Monday’s high-level International Rohingya Conference, stating that the event would play a critical role in keeping the crisis at the forefront of global attention and mobilise fund for critical humanitarian responses in the camps.

The UN chief also reiterated support and solidarity with Bangladesh in finding a pathway to resolve the Rohingya crisis.