US elections: Muhammad Yunus peace’ message for Trump amid violence against Hindus in Bangladesh

The Chief Advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, Muhammad Yunus, extended his wishes to US President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory and hoped for collaborated efforts to address global challenges in the pursuit of peace and harmony for all.

“I am delighted to convey, on behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh, my heartfelt felicitations to you on your victory in the US Presidential Election 2024,” Yunus said in his letter to Trump.

“Excellency, aligning with our commitment to a peaceful and inclusive society, the government and the peace-loving people of Bangladesh look forward to partner and collaborate in your efforts in addressing the global challenges in the pursuit of peace, harmony, stability, and prosperity for all”, the letter added.

Yunus’s message is seen as an indirect response to Trump’s recent remarks condemning attacks on Hindu communities in Bangladesh.

Trump, in his Diwali message, condemned the “barbaric violence” against Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh.

“I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities who are getting attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a total state of chaos,” Trump had tweeted.

“It would never have happened on my watch,” the President-elect added.

In July and August, Bangladesh saw a surge of violence against the Hindu community amid widespread unrest after the student-led protests against a contentious quota system went out of hand and turned into a nationwide anti-government movement. The situation intensified, ultimately leading to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India on August 5.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th President of the United States, capping a remarkable comeback four years after he was voted out of the White House. Trump, 78, recaptured the White House on Wednesday by securing more than the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the presidency.