Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus has described the country as being in the midst of a “major transformation” driven by young people, as it prepares for a landmark national election early next year.

Speaking to a visiting Canadian parliamentary delegation at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday, Prof Yunus said, “You’ve come at a time when Bangladesh is going through significant change, an uprising led by youth. We are now preparing for the election, which will mark a historic moment for the nation.”

The seven-member delegation, led by Canadian Senator Salma Ataullahjan, held wide-ranging discussions with the Chief Adviser on strengthening trade relations and addressing the prolonged Rohingya refugee crisis.

Prof Yunus briefed the visitors on ongoing political and administrative reforms ahead of the February election and expressed appreciation for Canada’s consistent humanitarian support to the Rohingya community.

“Eight years have passed, and the return of the Rohingya to their homeland remains the only lasting solution. Around 1.2 million people are living here without a clear sense of identity or future. Thousands of children have been born stateless, and frustration is growing. Financial cuts are making this crisis even more severe,” Yunus told the delegation.

In response, Senator Ataullahjan reiterated Canada’s commitment to supporting the displaced Rohingya population, saying she would raise the issue in parliament. “The world must continue to focus on their peace and security,” she said, commending Professor Yunus for his advocacy.

The delegation also included MPs Salma Zahid and Sameer Zuberi, Human Concern International CEO Mahmuda Khan, Human Concern USA CEO Masum Mahbub, Gestalt Communications CEO Ahmad Attia, and Islamic Relief Canada CEO Usama Khan.

Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi underscored Canada’s interest in expanding economic engagement with Bangladesh. “We are working to diversify our trade. Canada and Bangladesh share strong people-to-people connections, and our government is committed to building broader partnerships across Asia,” he said.

Both sides discussed opportunities for Canadian investment in Bangladesh’s fast-growing export sectors, particularly in garments and agriculture.

National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman and Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed were also present at the meeting.