EU will help strengthen Bangladesh parliament, says Amir Khosru

He says the bloc is open to alternative financing models to aid development beyond loans and grants

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the European Union (EU) wants to support the formation of a stronger, more accountable parliament in Bangladesh and is ready to work with the next elected government on new development pathways.

Following a meeting with EU Ambassador Michael Miller at the party chairperson’s office in Gulshan on Thursday morning, he said the bloc is backing the idea of a dedicated parliamentary secretariat to boost institutional capacity.

He said the EU believes parliament must function as the “centre of accountability”, with existing checks and balances actively enforced.

Khosru, a member of BNP’s Standing Committee, blamed the previous government for weakening parliament, saying the framework for accountability exists but was sidelined.

The EU, he said, wants to help revive that process and ensure it delivers results in the future.

According to Khosru, the hour-long meeting covered elections, development, and investment.

On the economic front, the EU signalled interest in engaging with the next government through broader development partnerships.

Khosru said they are exploring financing options beyond conventional aid, such as green bonds and other untapped investment avenues.

He called it a “positive shift”, noting the EU is eager to support both the public and private sectors in a more dynamic way.

Their approach, he said, reflects long-term commitment rather than just short-term assistance.

Khosru also said the EU finds its vision largely in line with the BNP’s reform agenda and expressed satisfaction with the party’s priorities.

He added that the envoy prioritised election discussions at the start of the meeting. “The election is likely to be held in February, so people feel a sense of relief and satisfaction.”

The EU, he said, is also looking to engage with a future elected government.

Labour rights and judicial reforms were also discussed.

The BNP proposed the establishment of a separate secretariat for the judiciary to guarantee its independence -- a proposal the EU reportedly welcomed and offered to support financially.