German Ambassador to Bangladesh Achim Tröster paid a farewell visit to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, as his four-year diplomatic assignment in Dhaka comes to a close.

During the meeting, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus congratulated the outgoing envoy on the successful completion of his term and appreciated his contribution to strengthening the ties between Bangladesh and Germany.

“Germany has always been a dependable partner in our development journey,” Prof Yunus said.

Ambassador Tröster, looking back on his time in Bangladesh, expressed warm sentiments.

“I’ve had many interesting postings in my career, but Bangladesh truly stands out,” he said. “The hospitality of the Bangladeshi people has been overwhelming, and I leave with immense gratitude and respect.”

He also referred to the recent Investment Summit and wished Bangladesh well. “The Investment Summit was a good effort. I wish Bangladesh all the best, and I wish the interim government’s reform process every success. I also hope a fair and free election will be held,” said the ambassador.

Prof Yunus highlighted Germany’s key role as Bangladesh’s top trading partner in Europe and acknowledged its ongoing development cooperation. He also expressed gratitude for Germany’s support for the Rohingya people.

“We’re grateful for your country’s unwavering support in critical areas, especially to Rohingya refugee aid,” he said.

As the meeting came to an end, Prof Yunus told the ambassador, “Even after your departure, we hope to hear from you, be it positive or critical, because your insights matter to us. We consider you a true friend of Bangladesh.”

SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed and Md. Mosharaf Hossain, Director General (West Europe & EU) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, were also present at the meeting.

MSK/