Bangladesh
US Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter likely to be in Dhaka
US Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, Afreen Akhter, is likely to be in Dhaka on Saturday — to take relations with Bangladesh forward.
This is going to be the first visit by any US official after the January 7 national election.
Apart from bilateral issues and other areas of mutual interests, including economic growth and development, the Rohingya issue may also come up for discussion, according to a diplomatic source.
Read: We’re focused on Rohingyas’ sustainable return: Afreen Akhter
Afreen visited Bangladesh before the national election.
She is likely to meet senior officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
At a media briefing on February 14, she said, "We have a tremendous amount of work ongoing developing free media in Bangladesh, working with civil society, working with labor organizers across the spectrum to build up these institutions of democracy that will enable Bangladesh to become more democratic over the longer term."
Afreen visited Dhaka and Cox’s Bazar in October 16-17 last year and met with senior government officials, civil society members, Rohingya refugees, and representatives from humanitarian organizations.
Read: Free, fair, peaceful elections incredibly important: Afreen Akhter
While in Bangladesh, she had "productive" meetings with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, and other senior officials from the Government of Bangladesh.
She spent a day in Cox’s Bazar, meeting with Rohingya refugees, Bangladesh government officials, and humanitarian organizations.
In addition, the delegation focused on learning about the lives of the refugees as well as the condition in the camps.
Recently, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu, has said the current situation in Myanmar does not seem to be getting better and he sees deeper security problems for Bangladesh and beyond.
Read more: US Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter in Dhaka
"The situation there doesn't appear to be getting better. What worries me is that the refugee crisis, the security problems creating for Bangladesh, and potentially for India as well could get deeper in the coming days," he said.
WFP lauds Bangladesh for 'massive success' over past 15 years
The Executive Director of United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Cindy H. McCain, has lauded Bangladesh for making massive success in different sectors in the last 15 years.
She pointed out Bangladesh's leading role in women empowerment, reduction of dropout from schools through school feeding programmes, and building resilience in response to climate adversities.
She highly praised the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for giving shelter to the Rohingyas (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) who were forced to leave Myanmar due to ethnic cleansing and genocide by the Government of Myanmar.
The Executive Director of WFP made the remarks during the ceremony, which marked the presentation of Letter of Commission by Md. Monirul Islam, Bangladesh Ambassador to Italy, accrediting him as the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to WFP.
Read: WFP to increase food ration from US$8 to US$10 for all Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar
Ambassador and PR Islam thanked the Executive Director for receiving the Commission and for sharing her understanding of the achievements of Bangladesh in recent years. Referring to WFP's activities in Bangladesh as multi-dimensional, long-standing and highly effective, the Ambassador informed the WFP Chief of the Government's engagements (both financial and operational contributions) in the School Feeding Programme and Rice Fortification Programme of Bangladesh.He appreciated the unprecedented support and role of WFP to deal with the Rohingya issue and requested to persuade the Government of Myanmar through the WFP Executive Board for the safe, assured and dignified repatriation of the Rohingyas to their homeland. The Ambassador expressed his satisfaction on the achievements of the Country Strategic Plan (CSP) for Bangladesh for the period 2022-2026 and plead for working closely with the Government of Bangladesh to ensure financing from the development partners in the implementation of CSP.
Read: WFP, BBS commemorate long-term strategic MoU to strengthen national statistics in SDG monitoring
The event, held at WFP Headquarter on 19 February, ended with reiteration of commitment by both Bangladesh and WFP to work together closely emphasizing “Saving and Changing Lives Worldwide” in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, particularly with regard to SDG 2.
Md. Jasim Uddin, Counsellor, Md. Al Amin, Alternate Permanent Representative to WFP and Aysha Akter, First Secretary (Political) of Bangladesh Embassy in Rome were present while the Executive Director of WFP was accompanied by senior officials of WFP.
Read more: WFP, Bangladesh join hands to advance inclusive social protection programmes
Russian House holds seminar on 'Russian Language as Native' in commemoration of International Mother Language Day
Dhaka's Russian House organized a seminar on "Russian Language as Native" in commemoration of International Mother Language Day.
The seminar "Russian Language as Native" was organized under the initiative of the Russian House of Dhaka in cooperation with the Liberation War Affairs Academy Trust.
Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo, Central Office in Moscow, Pavel A. Shevtsov was the chief guest at the seminar.
In his welcome speech, Pavel Dvoychenkov, the director of Russian House in Dhaka highlighted its activities in the promotion of Russian language education in Bangladesh and the important role in increasing the scholarships provided by the Russian government for Bangladeshi students, as well as various programs of the Russian government for the development of youth in Bangladesh.
Pavel Shevtsov said in his speech that it is proven that Bangladeshis love Russia very much, and he is impressed to hear Russian spoken by Bengalis. He assured that the scholarship of the Russian government for Bangladeshi students will be gradually increased.
In the seminar also spoke Soviet Russian Graduates Sattar Mia, President, Russian Friendship Society with Bangladesh; Yasmeen Sultana, Russian Language Teacher, Russian House in Dhaka; Zaheed Reza Noor, Deputy Editor, Ajker Patrika and Teacher, translator, and writer from Russian literature; Olga Roy, Associate Professor, Department of Nuclear Science & Engineering (NSE), Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST); Freedom Fighter Shahjahan Sardar; and Dr. Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad, Chairman of Liberation War Affairs Academy Trust.
They all recalled Russia's friendly relations and humanitarian assistance with deep respect and expressed hope that the Russia-Bangladesh friendship would be stronger.
They also emphasized higher education in Russia and the study of the Russian language in order to truly understand the rich Russian literature.
Freedom fighters from different districts of the country, Russian language students, media representatives of Bangladesh, and other dignitaries were present at the event.
'Red Alert': Canadian University of Bangladesh debuts book on Non-Communicable Diseases
The joint research effort between Canadian University of Bangladesh and University of Manitoba has resulted in the creation of a groundbreaking book titled "Red Alert", that was released on Monday at a city hotel.
The book is focused on non-communicable diseases. It is the first book of its kind written for health-conscious individuals in Bangladesh.
State Minister for Information and Broadcast Professor Mohammad Ali Arafat was present as the chief guest in the unveiling ceremony while Dr. Chowdhury Nafeez Sarafat, founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Canadian University of Bangladesh presided over.
The Minister of Information and Broadcasting highlighted the dual advantages outlined in the Red Alert book during his address.
He emphasized its potential for delivering both health benefits and accurate insights into products, such as olive oil alternatives.
Expressing confidence, he envisioned the Red Alert book as a representation of Brand Bangladesh in the future. Furthermore, he extended gratitude to all involved in its publication and assured continued government support for future research endeavors of this nature.
The event highlighted CUB's commitment to pioneering research in the private university sector of Bangladesh. Dr. Chowdhury Nafeez Sarafat emphasized CUB's unique milestone with the publication of "Red Alert."
He also mentioned that Canadian University of Bangladesh is expanding its global presence by launching educational programs at its Ontario Campus in Canada later this year, furthering its mission of fostering international education and research collaboration.
Dr. Rita Colwell, a renowned professor at the University of Maryland, USA, Debra Boyce, Senior Trade Commissioner of the Canadian High Commission, and Dr. Mesbahuddin Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Accreditation Council, shared insights during the event.
The editing of "Red Alert" was a collaborative effort led by Professor Dr. Gias U Ahsan, the Vice-Chancellor (Acting) of CUB, along with Dr. C. Emdad Haque of the University of Manitoba, Canada, and Professor M. Anisul Islam of North South University.
Dr. Gias U Ahsan expressed confidence that "Red Alert" would be well-received by health-conscious individuals and become an essential resource.
The publication ceremony was jointly organized by the Canadian University of Bangladesh, University of Manitoba, and CNRS.
The book "Red Alert" will be available at Stall Number 895 of Ekushey Boimela from Tuesday (20th Feb. 2024).It's the Canadian University of Bangladesh stall at the book fair.
Environment Minister meets UAE counterpart to forge environmental cooperation
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury, engaged in a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the United Arab Emirates, Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak on Monday
The meeting, held in Dubai, marked a significant step towards fostering collaboration between the two nations in addressing pressing climate change, environmental and sustainability challenges, according to a press release.
During the discussions, Saber and Al Dahak exchanged insights and strategies aimed at tackling climate change, preserving forests, and safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Both parties expressed a strong commitment to implementing sustainable practices and policies to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and promote environmental conservation, said the release.
Saber emphasized Bangladesh's dedication to achieving its environmental goals outlined in various international agreements, including the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He underscored the importance of international partnerships and cooperation in achieving collective environmental objectives.
He said for the implementation of UAE Consensus originating from COP28, Bangladesh’s National Adaptation Plan and Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan requires international and bilateral cooperation and solidarity, the release also said.
Al Dahak commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s global leadership in climate change and reiterated UAE's commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh and global partners to address climate change challenges effectively.
She highlighted the UAE's initiatives and investments in renewable energy, conservation efforts, and climate resilience strategies, it said.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to enhance cooperation through knowledge sharing, technical assistance, and joint initiatives. Both ministers affirmed their countries' shared responsibility in safeguarding the planet and pledged to work closely together to advance environmental sustainability at regional and global levels.
Earlier in the day, the environment minister held a productive bilateral meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Both agreed to strengthen partnership amongst the two brotherly nations with renewed focus on trade and investment. 2024 is an auspicious year in Bangladesh UAE bilateral relations as it marks 50 years of diplomatic relations.
India allows onion export to Bangladesh, 5 other countries
The Indian government has decided to give an exemption for Bangladesh, as well as five other countries, from its ban export of onions, up to a certain amount.
This permission has been given on the recommendation of the Ministry of External Affairs of the country.
Read more: Onion, sugar likely to be imported from India before Ramadan: State Minister
Along with Bangladesh, India has also allowed the export of onions to Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bahrain, and Mauritius. However, New Delhi has not yet taken any decision on the complete withdrawal of the ban imposed on onion exports.
On Monday (February 19), the Indian newspaper Economic Times reported that India officially allowed the export of onions to Bangladesh and some other countries.
An Indian official related to this issue said that the export of onions in limited quantities to these countries has been allowed for bilateral purposes. However, the official could not tell the exact amount of onion that has been allowed to be exported.
Read more: Onion price steeper by Tk50 per kg in 3 weeks
JP's last foreign minister suggests 5-country initiative to handle Myanmar fallout
The Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Jatiyo Party lawmaker Anisul Islam Mahmud on Monday suggested a joint initiative comprising India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, China and the United States to address the ongoing Myanmar issue, including the Rohingya crisis.
He expressed the fear that the security of Bangladesh and India will be disrupted due to the ongoing situation in Myanmar.
Apart from cabinet posts under the successive AL-led governments since 2009, Anisul Islam Mahmud served as the country's foreign minister under the Ershad regime from 1985-90.
'Reducing income inequality a time consuming matter': Law Minister in JS
Pointing to the recent remarks of US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu, the JP lawmaker said that the situation in Myanmar might heighten security risks for Bangladesh and neighbouring regions.
Anisul said the war-like situation in Rakhine is affecting the security of our country.
“We should take more steps in this regard.”
Prolonged presence of Rohingyas a serious security challenge: State Minister for Disaster Mgt
He said if Bangladesh suffers because of this war and if Bangladesh gets involved in it, the Rakhines can try to take advantage of it.
“So, I think India, US, Myanmar and China should take a joint initiative to look into this matter,” Anisul also said.
Bangladesh Bank instructs bringing employees of financial institutions under universal pension scheme
Bangladesh Bank has given instructions to bring the employees and officials of financial institutions (FIs) under the universal pension scheme.
The financial institutions and market department of the central bank issued this notification on Monday as part of the government’s initiative to bring all citizens under the pension system.
Bangladesh Bank sets an 11-point roadmap to realise default loans
The notification was sent to the managing directors and chief executives of all financial institutions in the country.
According to the notification, the government enacted the Universal Pension Management Act-2023 and the Universal Pension Scheme Rules-2023 on August 13, 2023, to cover people in all sections of the country, especially the elderly population, under a sustainable and well-organised social security system.
Bangladesh Bank unveils SMART-derived interest rates for January
The universal pension scheme is open to the participation of officers and employees of private institutions or owners of institutions, persons working in the informal sector or self-employed, low-income persons living below the poverty line, and any Bangladeshi citizen working or staying abroad.
Bangladesh Bank dissolves National Bank’s board
Combined exercise between Bangladesh Air Force and US Pacific Air Forces begins
A 10-day-long combined exercise titled “Exercise Cope South-2024” between Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and Pacific Air Forces, a major command of the United States Air Force, commenced on Monday.
The BAF is arranging the exercise under the guidance of the Bangladesh Armed Forces Division.
President for feasibility study on joint exercise for BD, Zambia armies
An opening ceremony was arranged at BAF Base Bangabandhu in this regard on Monday.
Air Officer Commanding of BAF Base Bangabandhu Air Vice Marshal Md Badrul Amin delivered the opening address at the ceremony.
Joint exercise of BAF, US Pacific Air Force ends
Through conducting different activities, Exercise Cope South-2024 aims to enhance BAF capability as well as ensure maximum utilisation of BAF transport aircraft in combating disasters and natural calamities.
One C-130J aircraft of the BAF is taking part in this exercise, along with two C-130J aircraft of the Pacific Air Forces, USA. Besides, one AN-32 aircraft of BAF is kept ready to participate in the exercise.
A total of 250 members of the BAF and 78 members of the Pacific Air Forces, USA, will participate in Exercise Cope South 2024.
In addition to 12 paratroopers from the Bangladesh Air Force, 30 paratroopers (11 free fallers and 19 static jumpers) from the Bangladesh Army and 40 paratroopers from the Bangladesh Navy will also take part in this exercise, according to a media release from the ISPR directorate on Monday afternoon.
This exercise will focus on enhanced interoperability between BAF and Pacific Air Forces, USA, exchange of training, assessment of functional suitability of available equipment, identification of future equipment requirements for improving capability, and standardisation of maintenance of transport aircraft through different activities.
END/UNB/MJ/MB/ssk
Bangladesh Police got 83,577 staff in last three terms: Home Minister
Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan on Monday said that the current government has added 83,577 jobs in the police department in the last three terms.
He also said that the government has taken the step due to the lack of manpower in the Bangladesh Police for ensuring law and order in the country.
“The ratio of police and population has decreased compared with the previous times. The move to increase manpower in the police force is going on,” he said.
The home minister made the statement in Parliament in response to a question of Awami League lawmaker from Noakhali Md Mamunur Rashid Kiron.
He said that currently the total sanctioned posts of Bangladesh Police is 2, 14, 176 (police posts 2, 03, 367 and non-police posts 10, 809).
“Due to the lack of manpower in the Bangladesh Police in ensuring law and order of the country, the current government has increased 83,577 posts in the last three terms.”
In response to the question of Independent lawmaker from Mymensingh ABM Anisuzzaman, the home minister said that application for passports and payment of passport fees have been made online in order to stop the influence of the brokers in the passport offices and to provide passports to service seekers easily,” he said.
“New passport office locations have been planned in highly populated areas of the country including Cumilla and Sylhet. Outsourcing the passport enrollment process is under active consideration,” he said.
In response to a question of the ruling party member from Bagerhat HM Bodiujjaman, the home minister said that 1,20,287 illegal drug smugglers have been arrested and brought under the law.
“A large quantity of drugs were seized in 2023 and 97, 241 cases were filed across the country by all agencies,” he said.
In response to another question of independent lawmaker from Dhaka-19 M Saiful Islam, the home minister said that currently some 82, 507 drug-related cases have remained pending in different judicial courts of the country.