Yunus: Bangladesh No Longer 'Submissive,' Restored Sovereignty and Dignity

• Outgoing interim government chief Muhammad Yunus stated Bangladesh is no longer a "submissive country" in his farewell address.
• He claimed his 18-month rule restored sovereignty, national interests, and dignity in Bangladesh's external engagement.
• Yunus emphasized that his administration ensured democratic rights, formulated 130 new laws, and issued 600 executive orders.
• He highlighted the strategic asset of Bangladesh's open sea and the growth potential of regional cooperation with Nepal, Bhutan, and northeastern India.
• Critics, however, noted a significant downturn in relations with New Delhi and a strained relationship with India under Yunus's tenure.