bangladesh
S Korea highlights importance of Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh
South Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh Park Young-sik has laid emphasis on expediting discussion with Bangladesh to have an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), noting that Bangladesh does not have much time before its graduation from the LDC club.
“The impending graduation of Bangladesh from the status of a Least Developed Country (LDC) in 2026 and the subsequent loss of Generalized System of Preference (GSP) benefits pose a challenge to Korea-Bangladesh trade system,” he told diplomatic correspondents at his residence on Sunday evening.
He said some parts of the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) is linked to the GSP and if Bangladesh graduates from the LDC status, some products that enjoy no tariff benefits under the APTA will become tariff paying products.
Therefore, the Korean envoy said, simply extending GSP benefits cannot solve all the problems and both sides need to address these problems through EPA.
Bangladesh, Bhutan sign three new MoUs
The Ambassador said the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has various names like EPA or Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). “In my view, these types of FTA are the same.”
Starting FTA in Korea requires domestic procedures including approval from the national parliament, he said, adding that they hope that bilateral EPA with Bangladesh will start in the near future.
The EPA between Bangladesh and South Korea has been in discussion since early 2023 but no real progress has been made, said Ambassador Park.
Bangladesh has finished joint study with Japan and come close to finishing it with China and is discussing it with India, he said.
Earlier the Ambassador hosted an iftar-cum-dinner in honour of the members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB).
Dhaka, Thimphu agree to enhance cooperation in trade, connectivity, electricity
DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib sought support from the embassy to help diplomatic correspondents stay informed about South Korea's role in the international arena such as inter-Korean relations, regional security, economic diplomacy, soft power and culture, global health and technology, and multilateral engagements.
Korea recognized Bangladesh as an independent state on May 12, 1972. Both nations established diplomatic relations on December 18, 1973. The year 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of their bilateral relations.
Dhaka Metro Rail service hours being extended from March 27
In a move to cater to the increasing demand for late-night transportation, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has announced the extension of metro rail service hours beyond 9 pm, starting from Wednesday, March 27.
During a press briefing scheduled for tomorrow, the Managing Director of DMTCL, M. A. N Siddique, will provide detailed information regarding this significant service extension.
According to sources from DMTCL, the last train from Motijheel will now depart at 9:40 pm, and from Uttara end at 9:20 pm. This extension will introduce trains running every 12 minutes during the additional service hours, adding 10 more trains to the current schedule.
Read more: Metro rail operating hours to be extended by one hour from 16th Ramadan
Consequently, the total number of daily trips will increase from 184 to 194.
Currently, the Dhaka metro rail operates from 7 am to 8:40 pm, with trains running every 8 minutes during peak hours (7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 8 pm) and every 12 minutes during off-peak hours (11 am to 2:30 pm).
This expansion of metro rail service is aimed at enhancing the commuting experience for Dhaka's residents, providing a more flexible and accessible transportation option during the evening hours.
Read more: HC orders probe into rent of Metro rail canteen
Bangladesh, Bhutan sign three new MoUs
Bangladesh and Bhutan on Monday (March 25, 2024) signed three new memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to enhance mutual cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
The MoUs are: Establishment of a Special Economic Zone in Kurigram, Setting up a Burn and Plastic Surgery Unit in Thimphu, and technical cooperation on consumer rights.
Another MoU on cultural exchange was renewed.
Japan extends Tk 33.5 million to 2 grassroots human security projects
Health Minister Smanta Lal Sen, Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) Shaikh Yusuf Harun, Directorate of National Consumers' Right Protection Director General (Additional Secretary) A.H.M. Shafiquzzaman and Cultural Affairs Secretary Khalil Ahmed signed the MoUs from Bangladesh side.
Bhutanese Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk, Bhutanese Commerce Secretary Tashi Wangmk and Bhutanese Foreign Secretary Pema Choden signed the MoUs on behalf of their country.
Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina witnessed the MoU signing agreement held at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Besides, Bangladesh offered to increase the number of annual medical seats for Bhutanese students from 22 to 30 while the foreign service academy of Bangladesh offered two seats for the Bhutanese foreign service officers every year for capacity building. Bangladesh will also extend necessary assistance in setting up a Diplomatic Training Institute in Bhutan.
Apart from this, Bangladesh offered special training to Bhutanese officials in Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) annually for three years.
Sweden will remain a steadfast partner to Bangladesh: Minister Johan Forssell
As a special gesture of goodwill and friendship, Bangladesh handed over computers and laptops for the capacity building and skills development of the government officials of Bhutan.
Earlier, on his arrival, the Bhutanese King was received by the Prime Minister at her office.
The Bhutanese King held a delegation-level meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prior to the MoU signing ceremony.
They will also had a one-to-one meeting.
S Korea highlights importance of Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh
Let's honour those who work silently for public welfare: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday asked all to identify and honour the dedicated souls who have been working silently for the welfare of people in different parts of the country.
“There are many dedicated souls in different areas – villages and urban areas—of the country. I would like to call upon you to find such dedicated persons who have been working not for themselves but for the welfare of the people. They never can come to the limelight or don’t want to come to limelight,” she said.
The premier made this call while giving out the Independence Award-2024 to 10 distinguished individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the country.
She handed over the highest civilian award to the recipients or their family members at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city.
BNP wants to destroy country’s achievements in the name of Indian product boycott: Quader
The prime minister said it would be a great thing if all make efforts to find out the persons who are working for the welfare of the people with their own ventures being self-motivated and they can be awarded. “We’ve been trying our best to do so,” she said.
She greeted all the awardees who received the Independence Award-2024 for their contribution in different fields.
"I believe that many people will be inspired to work for the welfare of the country and people (after seeing recognition of good works) with conferment of the award," said Hasina.
The PM slammed the BNP-Jamaat clique and their accomplices who had distorted the history of the Liberation War after assassination of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with most of his family members on August 15, 1975.
She said the people of several generations were taken to destruction by distortion of the history of the 1971 Liberation War.
“But today new generations want to know and understand the history and build their life with inspiration they get from it. So, it's the matter of great optimism for us,” she said.
After assuming power, the Awami League let people particularly the new generation know the true history of the Liberation War of 1971, she said.
Noting that Bangladesh will start its journey as the developing country in 2026, she said, "We have been able to scale up Bangladesh at least one step."
The prime minister said now they have been working to transform Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous and Smart Sonar Bangladesh by 2041 in line with her party's 2024 election manifesto.
Referring to arson violence unleashed by the BNP-Jamaat alliance that hampered country's journey towards prosperity, she hoped that they would come to their sense.
Increase vigilance on movement of three-wheelers, motorcycles during Eid holidays: Quader
"The Awami League has proved that a country can prosper if peace and democratic trend continues," she said.
The premier strongly condemned the Israeli attack on Gaza, saying Bangladedh always supports Palestine.
She reiterated Bangladesh's stance that the country is always against war. "We never want war, we want peace," she said.
The PM said Bangladesh even try to solve the Rohingya issue through holding talks with Myanmar.
Freedom fighter Kazi Abdus Sattar Bir Pratik, Freedom fighter flight sergeant Md Fazlul Haque (posthumous) and Freedom fighter Shaheed Abu Nayem Md Nazib Uddin Khan (Khurram) (posthumous) received the prestigious award for their contributions to Bangladesh's independence and the Liberation War.
Dr Mobarak Ahmad Khan was honoured with the award for his contribution to science and technology, while Dr Harishankar Das for his contribution to medicine.
Mohammad Rafikuzzaman and Firoza Khatun received the honour for their contribution to culture and sports respectively.
Aranya Chiran, freedom fighter Prof Dr Mollah Obaidul Baki and SM Abraham Lincoln were given the award in the social service category.
On behalf of the awardees, Rafikuzzaman expressed his feelings in the award giving ceremony.
Cabinet Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain moderated the function and read out the citations with a brief life sketch of the recipients.
Bangladesh has been honouring individuals and institutions with the award every year ahead of Independence Day on March 26 since 1977.
Dhaka, Thimphu agree to enhance cooperation in trade, connectivity, electricity
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Monday met Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck at his place of residence in Dhaka.
Both sides expressed satisfaction at the current excellent level of cooperation between the two countries.
They agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of trade and commerce, connectivity, power, agriculture, education, culture, people to people contact etc.
Japan extends Tk 33.5 million to 2 grassroots human security projects
The Bhutanese King arrived in Dhaka on Monday morning.
This is the first state visit by any foreign dignitary since the formation of the new government after the January 7 national election.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and First Lady received the King and his delegation members who arrived at 10 am by a special flight.
Bhutan was the first country to recognise the newly independent Bangladesh on December 6 in 1971 when the 3rd King of Bhutan sent a message of recognition by telegram.
Dhaka rolls out red carpet to welcome Bhutanese king
Since then Bangladesh and Bhutan share a special multidimensional bilateral relationship. Immediately after the independence, the Bhutanese government took initiative to establish diplomatic relations with Bangladesh and, consequently, formal diplomatic relations was established on 12 April 1973.
Bhutanese King at PMO to hold meeting with PM Hasina
Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck reached the Prime Minister’s office (PMO) this afternoon to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina welcomed the King with a bouquet.
The Bhutanese King arrived in Dhaka this morning on a four-day state visit to attend a series of programmes including Independence Day celebrations.
This is the first state visit by any foreign dignitary since the formation of the new government after the January 7 national election.
Three new MoUs will be signed between Bangladesh and Bhutan while another MoU on cultural exchange will be renewed.
The Bhutanese King and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will witness the signing of the MoUs.
Japan extends Tk 33.5 million to 2 grassroots human security projects
The government of Japan has extended a grant of USD 306,692, approximately Tk 33.5 million, to two Bangladeshi NGOs, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute and JAAGO Foundation Trust.
Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori signed the ‘grant contracts’ for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGHSP) at the Embassy of Japan with the respective organizations on March 24.
Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute has been awarded USD 83,424 as a grant for the project - Strengthening Medical System of Haematological Diseases for Children in Dhaka district.
Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute, a government-funded hospital, provides medical, surgical treatment, and diagnostic services.
Sweden will remain a steadfast partner to Bangladesh: Minister Johan Forssell
With the assistance of the GGHSP funding, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute will procure and install three medical equipment (1 Refrigerated Centrifuge Machine, 1 Plasma Storage Freezer, and 1 Automated Aphaeresis Machine) to provide the treatment of haematological diseases including blood cancer and thalassemia for children.
JAAGO Foundation Trust has been awarded USD 223,268 as a grant for the project - Construction of a School Building for a Digital School in Bandarban District.
JAAGO Foundation Trust is working to provide free quality education to underprivileged children, and empowering youth leaders.
With the assistance of the GGHSP funding, JAAGO Foundation Trust will construct a 2-storied reinforced concrete building of primary and secondary school instead of the current temporary wooden school in Bandarban district to improve access to quality education for the grass-roots community, where the students will be able to complete up to secondary school certificate exam (equivalent to 12 years of education).
Visiting official of Fatah, internationally recognised Palestinian Authority, grateful for Dhaka's support; urges to do more to stop Israel
Japan has supported 217 NGO projects through its Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGHSP) since 1989 with the view to enhancing economic and social human security in the grass-roots levels.
The total sum of these GGHSP grants extended to NGOs in Bangladesh to date amounts approximately to $17.2 million, said the Embassy.
Bangladesh High Commission in Brunei observes ‘Genocide Day’
Bangladesh High Commission in Brunei Darussalam observed ‘Genocide Day’ with due solemnity on Monday.
The programme was attended mainly by members of Bangladesh community.
At the beginning of the programme, recitation from the Holy Quran was performed and prayers were also offered for the salvation of the departed souls of all martyrs who were killed on the fateful night of 25 March 1971.
A one minute’s silence was also observed in their memories.
Bangladesh High Commissioner Nahida Rahman Shumona read out messages from the President and the Prime Minister.
Paying rich tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladeshi High Commissioner condemned the brutality of the Pakistan military in severe terms.
A video documentary was screened, depicting the history and background of the Genocide Day.
Body of rice depot employee recovered in Jashore
The body of an employee of a rice wholesale depot was recovered from his workplace in Jashore Sadar upazila early Monday.
The deceased Bayezid Hasan, 28, son of Nazrul Islam of Banargati village in Khulna city. He was an employee of the rice depot owned by Jashore city unit BNP’s president Rafiqul Islam Chowdhury Malluk Chand.
Kotwali police station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abdur Razzaque said Bayezid allegedly stole Tk five lakh from the rice depot few days back.
He might have been beaten and strangled to death over the issue, he said.
Being informed, a police team rushed to the spot and recovered the body from around 3 am, the OC said, adding that the body was sent to Jashore Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy.
The night guard of the wholesale depot was arrested in this connection.
A case will be filed in this connection, he added.
Sweden will remain a steadfast partner to Bangladesh: Minister Johan Forssell
Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell has said Sweden will remain a steadfast partner to Bangladesh.
"I see a lot of potential for more Swedish companies to establish themselves here in Bangladesh,” Minister Johan Forssell quoted as saying in a media release issued by the Swedish Embassy on Monday.
UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, together with the Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell, and UNDP Assistant Secretary General Ulrika Modéer, have concluded their four-day visit to Bangladesh recently.
During the visit, the delegation had constructive meetings with representatives of the Government of Bangladesh, including Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud.
The Crown Princess and the delegation also had the opportunity to meet with civil society, youth, national and international development partners, private companies and many other stakeholders to get their views on sustainable development in Bangladesh and opportunities and challenges of the future.
Several visits were undertaken in the southern parts of Bangladesh.
Accompanied by Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Crown Princess Victoria witnessed the consequences of climate change and adaptation efforts in Koyra, Khulna.
The delegation met women and youth who are part of the Local Government Initiative on Climate Change (LoGIC) project being implemented by UNDP and UNCDF (UN Capital Development Fund) with support from the Swedish government.
They learned about how empowering women and youth through capacity building, leadership training and entrepreneurship are important means to turn climate change vulnerabilities into opportunities, to ensure that no one is left behind.
Crown Princess Victoria and State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak inaugurated a Smart Service Point of Post Office in Koyra, Khulna, a key milestone by UNDP’s a2i - Aspire to Innovate towards SMART Bangladesh.
These efforts are strengthening digital inclusion by providing essential services to rural areas, demonstrating technology's role in sustainable development.
In Chattogram, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Crown Princess Victoria engaged with a climate-displaced community and witnessed UNDP’s urban resilience programme, that empowers women leaders while fostering sustainable urban resilience.
Crown Princess Victoria and the delegation also visited Asian University for Women in Chattogram to engage with female students, many of them with refugee background.
In addition, the delegation visited the climate- vulnerable coastal island of Hatiya to observe UNDP's work on climate resilience in hard to reach areas.
Crown Princess Victoria, Minister Johan Forssell and UNDP Assistant Secretary General Ulrika Modéer also made a stop in Bhasan Char and a visit to the Rohingya Refugee Camp at Cox’s Bazar and witnessed the collaborative efforts of multiple UN Agencies including the UNHCR, WFP, UNFPA, UN Women, UNDP, IOM and others, many of them funded by Sweden. HRH Crown Princess Victoria interacted with Rohingya Refugees and gained insights into the challenges faced by the Rohingya community.
In connection to the visit to the Rohingya refugee camps, the Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Johan Forssell referred to Sweden’s plans to provide SEK 77 million in humanitarian assistance to Bangladesh via Sida in 2024, an increase compared with last year.
“We’re seeing worrying developments in Bangladesh, with one million Rohingya refugees who don’t have sufficient food for the day. Sweden is a major core support donor to many aid organisations, and now we’re also increasing our humanitarian support to Bangladesh, with a focus on meeting urgent needs, saving lives and ensuring food security,” said the Minister.
The visit also had a focus on the green transition and the role of the private sector.
Minister Johan Forssell and ASG Ulrika Modéer participated in a panel with a focus on the role of the private sector in enhancing the green transition in Bangladesh and the delegation interacted with major Swedish companies such as H&M, Volvo, Ericsson, Scania and Atlas Copco, as well as international companies, pivotal in Bangladesh green transition.