United News of Bangladesh

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will lay a wreath at Coventry Cathedral on Friday, marking a symbolic act of remembrance for the victims of World War II as Germany and the United Kingdom move to strengthen their partnership at a time of renewed conflict in Europe. The visit to Coventry honors those killed when Nazi forces bombed the city on Nov 14, 1940, destroying its 14th-century Gothic cathedral and killing at least 568 people. More than half of Coventry’s homes were damaged or destroyed that night, the most concentrated assault on any British city during the war. The Duke of Kent will represent Britain at the ceremony, recognized for his long-standing efforts to promote reconciliation between the two nations. Steinmeier’s appearance comes at the end of a three-day state visit, the first by a German president in 27 years. The trip has emphasized a renewed spirit of cooperation as European countries close ranks to support Ukraine and counter Russian attempts to destabilize Western democracies through interference, disinformation and sabotage. Concerns over what they see as U.S. President Donald Trump’s unpredictability have pushed European states to increase defense spending and deepen military coordination. The German leader and King Charles III highlighted their countries’ shared history and values during a state banquet at Windsor Castle on Wednesday. Steinmeier described Coventry as a symbol of reconciliation, saying the city’s rebirth shows “what is possible when people have the courage to pursue reconciliation.” Earlier this year, the UK and Germany signed a treaty to expand cooperation on defense, migration and climate change. Analysts say Steinmeier’s visit reflects a historic level of unity among European nations, unmatched since the early 19th century. The state visit included meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, an address to Parliament and a wreath-laying at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II. The royal ceremony offered the full spectacle of British pageantry, with Charles and Queen Camilla welcoming Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Büdenbender, for a procession to Windsor Castle and a formal banquet in St George’s Hall, which was decorated with a towering Christmas tree. In his address to lawmakers, Steinmeier called Russia’s invasion of Ukraine an assault on the rules-based order built after World War II. He warned of “imperial ambitions” and attempts by destabilizing forces to divide democratic societies, urging Europe to remain united “for what defines us.”  

UN humanitarian agencies expressed deep concern on Thursday over escalating armed violence affecting civilians in southeastern Central African Republic (CAR). The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that ambushes in the Mboki region over the past weekend killed several civilians and heightened intercommunal tensions. The attacks also led to the destruction of multiple homes and the displacement of around 1,000 people, many of whom sought refuge at a local Catholic church. Mboki has experienced repeated clashes, and humanitarian access remains severely restricted due to insecurity and poor communications, OCHA noted. Last week, two staff members from a local NGO collaborating with the UN Population Fund were injured by stray bullets while providing essential food, protection, and water, sanitation, and hygiene support. While some areas of CAR have seen improvements in security, violence continues to worsen conditions in other regions, with roughly 50,000 people currently in need of humanitarian assistance, OCHA said. The International Crisis Group highlighted in its November CAR report that although the state’s overall security has improved and the country no longer faces an existential threat, pockets of insecurity persist in rural areas. Armed groups continue to attempt control over mining sites and engage in banditry, further destabilizing local communities. The UN and humanitarian organizations stressed the urgent need for protection measures and continued support to assist affected populations amid ongoing insecurity.

Hong Kong will hold a legislative election on Sunday as the city grapples with public frustration and questions over governance after a devastating apartment fire killed at least 159 people, the deadliest since 1948. The tragedy has intensified scrutiny of Beijing’s “patriots-only” political system and could weigh heavily on voter turnout, a key indicator of public sentiment in an era of shrinking political participation. The vote comes just 11 days after the massive blaze engulfed seven towers of a high-rise complex, prompting concerns about oversight of building maintenance and the authorities’ investigation. While widespread protests are unlikely due to the extensive security crackdown that began five years ago, residents have voiced worries privately, on social media and to reporters. This year’s race features significant changes within the 90-member Legislative Council. Nearly 40 percent of incumbents, including well-known and mildly outspoken figures, have chosen not to run. They are being replaced by a larger number of candidates with business links to mainland China and more individuals who serve in China’s legislature and political advisory bodies, reflecting Beijing’s tightening control over the city’s political landscape. Veteran lawmakers began announcing their departures in late September. Some, like Regina Ip, said they wanted to make way for younger politicians. Others denied facing pressure but their exits drew more attention to a legislature now fully aligned with Beijing after electoral rules were overhauled in 2021. Those changes reduced the number of directly elected seats from 35 to 20, expanded the role of a pro-Beijing election committee and introduced strict vetting of all candidates by national security authorities. Pro-democracy lawmakers have disappeared from the chamber after many were arrested under the 2020 national security law. Public concern about the performance of the legislature has grown. A local think tank earlier this year reported unease over the quality of debate and accountability. Meanwhile, an Associated Press review found that at least 26 of 161 candidates work in Chinese-funded enterprises, almost double the number identified in 2021. Sixteen candidates are delegates to China’s top legislature and 13 sit on its political advisory body. Analysts say the trend suggests Beijing favors younger, more compliant lawmakers and is reducing reliance on traditional political parties. Among the newcomers is Olympic fencing champion Vivian Kong, who passed official vetting after defending her eligibility to run in the tourism sector. Other candidates with ties to Chinese-funded companies defended their dual roles, saying their familiarity with national policies could help Hong Kong integrate with mainland development plans. Hong Kong leader John Lee rejected suggestions of interference and criticized what he called attempts to smear the election. He said personnel shifts are normal and that Beijing has a legitimate interest in the city’s political development. Turnout remains one of the biggest questions. Participation fell to a record low of 30.2 percent in 2021. The government has expanded polling locations, extended voting hours and encouraged employers to allow staff time to vote. Authorities have also made several arrests over social media posts allegedly discouraging voting or damaging election materials. But analysts say the fire has disrupted efforts to boost turnout and could depress participation further, with both pro-democracy supporters and some pro-government voters expected to stay home. John Burns, a University of Hong Kong scholar, said the disaster has “made it very difficult for the authorities to better the thirty percent,” adding that turnout will likely fall even lower.  

A United Nations Security Council (UNSC) delegation made a rare high-level visit to Syria on Thursday, marking the first engagement with Syrian authorities since the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. According to Syrian state media SANA, this is the first visit of its kind since the Security Council was established in 1945. The delegation, representing all Security Council member states, toured multiple sites in Damascus and held meetings with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, and other senior officials. The discussions focused on building trust, fostering dialogue, and advancing Syria’s political transition. Samuel Zbogar, Slovenia’s permanent UN representative and president of the Security Council for December, said the visit aimed to strengthen engagement and trust between the UN and the Syrian authorities. The delegation addressed a wide range of issues, including justice and reconciliation, inclusive political processes, national dialogue, humanitarian needs, economic recovery, reconstruction, and counterterrorism measures. They also emphasized the importance of preventing Syria from posing a threat to other nations. The delegation additionally met with UN representatives and communities affected by recent violence and coastal incidents in Sweida province. Zbogar described the discussions as both enlightening and difficult, providing a detailed perspective on Syria’s current situation. The visit comes as Syria continues efforts to stabilize the country politically and socially following the upheaval last December. UNSC representatives highlighted the need for economic development and reconstruction as crucial elements for long-term stability. The delegation also visited the old city of Damascus and entered Syria via the Lebanese border to engage directly with local communities. This high-level mission underscores the UN Security Council’s commitment to supporting Syria’s transition, addressing humanitarian challenges, and promoting dialogue and reconciliation in the post-Assad era.

China on Friday urged Japan to honor its obligations as a defeated nation of World War II, respect the post-war international order, and refrain from actions that could undermine peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks during a press briefing, responding to Japan’s recent approval of a higher defense budget and its talks with the Philippines on exporting Japanese missiles. Jiang criticized Japan for repeatedly violating its pacifist Constitution, significantly increasing its military spending, promoting the export of lethal weapons, and seeking to revise its three non-nuclear principles in recent years. He warned that Japan’s accelerated loosening of military restrictions signals a potential resurgence of militarism. He also condemned Japan for its slow handling of chemical weapons left in China during its wartime aggression. During its invasion of China, Japanese forces used large quantities of chemical weapons, causing over 200,000 military and civilian casualties. After Japan’s defeat, many chemical weapons were abandoned on Chinese soil, resulting in more than 2,000 additional victims and ongoing environmental hazards. China has called on Japan to accelerate the disposal of these weapons, provide timely information about them, assist in identification efforts, and take responsibility for remediation of contaminated water and soil. Jiang stressed that Japan must fully acknowledge its historical responsibilities and take concrete measures to address past wartime actions and their continuing impact on China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and visiting French President Emmanuel Macron held friendly exchanges on Friday in Dujiangyan, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, highlighting the longstanding cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Upon arrival, Macron and his wife Brigitte were warmly welcomed by Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan. Xi recalled his visit to France’s Hautes-Pyrenees last year and expressed hope that Macron’s visit would deepen his understanding of China. The leaders strolled along Yangong Path and later held discussions at Huaigu Pavilion while enjoying tea by the waterside. Xi praised the Dujiangyan irrigation system, emphasizing it as a symbol of the Chinese nation’s ingenuity, resilience, and harmonious approach to human-nature interaction. Macron hailed the over two-millennia-old system as a testament to China’s industriousness and wisdom. Xi and Macron discussed global affairs, noting the cultural depth and shared aspirations of both nations. Xi stressed that national prosperity requires both material and cultural development, highlighting China’s continuous civilizational achievements in unity, innovation, and inclusiveness. He also noted that China and France, as representatives of Eastern and Western civilizations, share a spirit of independence rooted in cultural heritage. Macron emphasized France’s willingness to strengthen dialogue, coordination, and cooperation with China to address global conflicts, promote peace, and ensure stability amid an uncertain international landscape. The two leaders agreed to maintain close communication to further the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership. During the visit, the countries issued joint statements on enhancing global governance, responding to climate and environmental challenges, promoting peaceful nuclear cooperation, advancing agricultural and food exchanges, and discussing situations in Ukraine and Palestine. President Xi and Madam Peng later hosted Macron and his wife for lunch, reinforcing the warm and cooperative atmosphere of the visit.  

Major airports across India descended into chaos Friday as IndiGo, the country’s largest airline, cancelled numerous flights due to newly enforced rules limiting working hours for pilots and crew. Passengers faced long queues at customer service counters, slept on airport floors, and struggled with minimal information from the airline. The disruptions mark the fourth consecutive day of operational turmoil for the low-cost carrier, which operates around 2,300 flights daily and holds nearly 65% of India’s domestic aviation market. The regulations, implemented in two phases since July, mandate longer rest periods and restrict night flying to reduce fatigue and improve safety. IndiGo has struggled to adjust crew schedules, leading to widespread cancellations. On Thursday alone, over 300 flights were grounded, with hundreds more delayed. Passengers expressed frustration, with senior citizen Sajal Bose saying he would take a nine-hour train ride to reach New Delhi after his flight from Kolkata was cancelled. IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers acknowledged disruptions, citing technology issues, schedule changes, weather, congestion, and new regulations. The Civil Aviation Ministry said planning gaps and misjudgment contributed to the problem. IndiGo has requested temporary exemptions and expects operations to be fully restored by Feb. 10, though some cancellations may continue in the coming weeks. Source: AP 

Iran launched a series of powerful missiles in the Sea of Oman and near the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Friday during the second day of a naval drill, state television reported. According to the report, the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired the missiles from mainland Iran, striking targets in the Oman Sea and adjacent areas near the Strait of Hormuz. The missiles identified included cruise missiles Qadr-110, Qadr-380, and Ghadir, with ranges of up to 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles), along with a ballistic missile designated 303. Footage broadcast on state TV showed the launches and their impact on targets. This is the second drill of its kind since the Israel-Iran conflict in June, which killed nearly 1,100 people in Iran, including military commanders and nuclear scientists, and claimed 28 lives in Israel due to Iranian missile strikes. Iran rejects UN Atomic Agency Resolution, warns of retaliatory measures Iran has repeatedly stated its readiness to counter any future Israeli attack. The Revolutionary Guard, responsible for Persian Gulf operations and the Strait of Hormuz, carried out the exercise, while Iran’s regular navy oversees the Sea of Oman and beyond. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global oil chokepoint, handling 20% of worldwide crude shipments. The U.S. Navy’s Bahrain-based 5th Fleet has long patrolled the region to ensure maritime passage remains open. Source: AP 

Hong Kong is holding legislative elections Sunday as the city grapples with the deadliest fire in decades, which killed at least 159 people and raised questions about government oversight and building safety. The vote for the 90-member Legislative Council comes amid a political landscape tightly controlled under Beijing’s “patriots-only” governance system. The election follows a 2021 overhaul that reduced directly elected seats from 35 to 20, with the rest chosen by a pro-Beijing election committee and industry-based panels. All candidates must pass official vetting, including by national security authorities. Pro-democracy politicians have been completely excluded following arrests under the 2020 national security law. The candidate pool includes more individuals with ties to mainland Chinese businesses and government bodies, reflecting Beijing’s emphasis on loyalty and alignment with its national agenda. Observers note the changes signal tighter control and a preference for candidates focused on national rather than local interests. Hong Kong leader orders independent probe after deadly high-rise fire Voter turnout will be closely watched. Political apathy has grown since 2021, and the recent fire may further dampen participation despite government efforts to facilitate voting through extended hours, additional polling stations, and subsidies. Experts suggest turnout could remain low, reflecting public concerns over systemic governance issues exposed by the tragedy. City leader John Lee defended the election, calling personnel changes normal and dismissing accusations of interference, while candidates emphasized their dual roles in public service and work in Chinese-linked enterprises. Source: AP

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday at an annual summit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties on the second day of his state visit. The 23rd Russia-India Summit comes at a pivotal moment as the United States pushes for a Ukraine peace deal while seeking global cooperation. They will test New Delhi’s efforts to balance relations with Moscow and Washington as the nearly four-year war in Ukraine grinds on. Putin was received by Modi at an airport in New Delhi on Thursday, who gave the visting leader a bear hug and a tight handshake with the gusto of an old friend. According to Indian officials involved in the preparation for the summit, the agenda includes talks on defense, energy and labor mobility. While India has historically maintained deep ties with Russia, critics say Putin’s visit could strain relations with the European Union and the United States and might jeopardize negotiations for major trade agreements with both that are seen as critical for India’s exports. U.S. President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50% in August, citing New Delhi's discounted Russian oil. India has been the second biggest importer of Russian crude after China. The U.S. says purchases of Russian oil help finance Moscow’s war machine. In October, U.S. sanctioned two of Moscow’s biggest oil producers to force countries like India to cut down on imports. Indian officials have said New Delhi has always abided by international sanctions and would do so in the case of Russia oil purchases as well. India and the U.S. set a target for the first tranche of a trade deal by the fall, but the deal hasn’t come through yet amid strains in relations. India is also in the final stages of talks on a trade agreement with the EU, which sees Russia's war in Ukraine as a major threat. In his meeting with Putin, Modi is likely to push for faster delivery of two further more Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. It has already received three under a 2018 deal worth about $5.4 billion. The delay has been tied to supply chain disruptions linked to the war in Ukraine. The two sides signed a pact in February to improve military cooperation, exercises, port calls, disaster relief assistance and logistics support. Moscow’s State Duma ratified the same ahead of Putin’s India visit. Talks are also expected on upgrading India’s Russian-made Su-30MKI fighter jets and accelerating deliveries of critical military hardware. Trade is also expected to be a major point in talks. Bilateral trade between the two countries stood at $68.7 billion in the last fiscal year ended March, while the aim is to boost it to $100 billion by 2030. The trade is heavily skewed in favor of Russia with deep deficits for India, which it is looking to bridge by pushing exports. India is keen to increase exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture and textiles to Russia and is seeking the removal of non-tariff barriers. New Delhi is also seeking long-term supplies of fertilizers from Moscow. Another key area where the two countries are expected to finalize an agreement is the safety and regulation of migration of Indian skilled workers to Russia. Putin last visited India in 2021. Modi was in Moscow last year, and the two leaders briefly met in September in China during a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.