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Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus touched down at Heathrow Airport this morning, beginning a highly anticipated visit to London. His arrival, confirmed by Akbar Hossain, Press Minister at the Bangladesh High Commission in London, marks the start of a packed schedule that includes high-level meetings and potential political discussions.
According to Mr. Hossain, the Chief Adviser's flight landed at 7:20 AM BST. He was greeted at the airport by Abida Islam, Bangladesh's High Commissioner to the UK, along with representatives of the British monarch. Azad Majumder, Deputy Press Secretary to Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, confirmed the landing time as 7:05 AM BST.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Adviser is scheduled to hold several meetings at his hotel in Central London after breakfast. New engagements may also be added to his itinerary throughout the day.
Meetings and Media Engagements
Among his confirmed meetings, members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Bangladesh are expected to meet with the Chief Adviser at his hotel. The group is chaired by British MP Apsana Begum, who is of Bangladeshi origin. Following these discussions, the Chief Adviser is also slated to give interviews to several media outlets.
Potential Press Briefing and Key Discussions
The Chief Adviser's press team is expected to hold a press briefing in London on Tuesday. This briefing may delve into the details and timing of a potential meeting between the Chief Adviser and BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman. A statement regarding the widely discussed viral letter from MP Tulip Siddiq, requesting a meeting with the Chief Adviser, could also be made during the briefing.
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Community Response and Protests
The visit has generated considerable interest within the British-Bangladeshi community. Expatriates began gathering as early as 6:30 AM BST outside The Dorchester on Park Lane to welcome the Chief Adviser as he traveled from the airport to his Central London hotel.
A civic rally will be held today at 5 PM local time at Shaheed Altab Ali Park in East London to welcome the Chief Adviser's UK visit on behalf of British Bangladeshis. Various social organizations have arranged this rally.
However, the visit is not without contention. The UK Awami League has organized a protest program nearby, with police deployed to maintain order. While the Chief Adviser’s civic reception and exchange of views with Bangladeshis have been canceled, the fervor on both sides remains high.
