During his speech at the 30th Nikkei Forum: Future of Asia held in Japan on Thursday, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus called for deeper cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan to reshape the future of Asia. He highlighted the growing instability in the world and underscored Asia’s central role in both the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Reflecting on his longstanding ties with Japan, Dr. Yunus recalled receiving the Asia Prize from Nikkei in 2004—a moment he described as deeply meaningful. He noted that this recognition had forged a personal connection with Japan, further strengthened through years of collaborative work with Japanese universities and youth. He praised the warm reception of his ideas around microcredit and social business by the Japanese people.

Addressing the forum’s theme of “Asia’s Challenges in a Divided World,” he observed that the world is facing rising uncertainty, with peace becoming fragile and global cooperation elusive. From Ukraine to Gaza, Myanmar to other regions of South and Southeast Asia, Dr. Yunus pointed to the human toll of war and conflict. He condemned the immense resources spent on warfare while millions struggle to meet basic needs, and expressed hope for peace and stability in South Asia, including between neighboring nations recently involved in armed conflict.

He also drew attention to the plight of climate-displaced populations, the moral dilemmas posed by technological advancements, growing economic inequality, and eroding trust within societies and between nations. Citing recent political upheavals in countries like Bangladesh and South Korea, Dr. Yunus emphasized the demand for better governance and deeper democratic values.

In a notable reference, he mentioned last year’s student-led uprising in Bangladesh that ushered in transformative change and led to his government taking office. He reaffirmed their commitment to a fair and credible election, the restoration of justice, and the building of a more equitable society. Despite internal challenges, Bangladesh continues to contribute to global peacekeeping missions and hosts over a million Rohingya refugees on humanitarian grounds.

Dr. Yunus argued that Asia, home to over half the world’s population, stands at the epicenter of global uncertainty—but also of vast promise. He urged Asian nations to embrace the responsibility of leading through peace, dialogue, and inclusive growth—not just economic expansion, but human well-being and restored trust.

Emphasizing his belief in human potential, he shared his lifelong mission: from launching Grameen Bank to advocating for social business worldwide. He reminded the audience, “People are not born to suffer—they are born with limitless potential. We just need to give them the right opportunity.”

Looking ahead, he called for unified regional action to confront shared challenges and unlock new avenues of prosperity. He presented six key proposals and reiterated that Asia’s future is not yet written—it must be shaped collectively, with hope, courage, and cooperation.

He concluded with a message of optimism: “Let us be guided by purpose, not power; by possibility, not fear. Let us dare to imagine a better world, trust one another, and work together—not because we must, but because we want to. The future of Asia is still unwritten. Together, we will write it.”

Dr. Yunus is expected to return to Bangladesh on May 31 after his four-day visit to Japan.