Foreign-Affairs
Ebru art exhibition hosted by Turkish Embassy held in Dhaka
Turkish Embassy in Dhaka on Friday hosted an exhibition titled “Ebru Art Exhibition” reflecting the richness of Turkish culture.
“Ebru art is very unique and traditional. It reflects the richness of Turkish culture,” said Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh Ramis Sen welcoming the guests at the exhibition.
In 2014, this traditional Turkish art was included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
“It is a great honor for us to welcome İlker Selimler, a well-known ebru artist in Türkiye. It is a great pleasure for us to host him in Bangladesh,” said the Ambassador.
Bangladesh stands united for Palestine in conflict with Israel: Humayun Kabir
Former Ambassador M. Humayun Kabir on Friday said there is no division in Bangladesh over Palestine-Israel issue, noting that everyone is in favour of Palestine.
He said he sees positive approach from the countries in the Middle East though the Arab world is yet to unite their force to resolve the Palestinian issue.
Highlighting the importance of unity in the Arab world, the former diplomat said the talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran have begun, which is positive.
The foreign affairs analyst said there is no organisation other than the United Nations that can mediate the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Therefore, he said, everyone must work together to solve the Palestinian-Israeli crisis by awakening the world's conscience.
The former ambassador was speaking at a debate competition titled "UCB Public Parliament" organized by the Debate for Democracy.
Chairman of the Debate for Democracy Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron presided over the event.
"We need a lasting solution. We must ensure justice. Some immediate steps need to be taken if we want peace and solution to the crisis," said the former ambassador.
He laid emphasis on quick and uninterrupted frow of humanitarian support for the people affected.
"You need to stand by the truth, justice and human rights," the former envoy told the debaters.
Kiron said that there is no food, no water, no electricity and no medical treatment in Gaza and only a row of dead bodies at the hospital.
African Elites in South Asia: Dr Kenneth X. Robbins’ insightful lecture at Bonhams in London
Dr Kenneth X. Robbins’ insightful lecture on “The African Elites in South Asia” was held at Bonhams in London on October 24.
Dr Robbins’ talk, ranging from history in South Asia to post-Islamic Arabia, addressed several misconceptions about Africans in mainstream media.
According to his lecture, East Africans greatly distinguished themselves in India. They wrote a story unsynchronised with the rest of the world, reaching and attaining the pinnacle of military and political authority in a different continent.
Read: Cosmos Foundation welcomes Dr. Kenneth X. Robbins as Advisory Board member
Dr Robbins’ passion for this area of study was greatly inspiring, revealing “more than meets the eye”. His rich collections of paintings, coins and stamps that aided his research were also highlighted.
Bonhams UK, which arranged the lecture, is a privately owned international auction house. Founded in 1793, it is one of the world's largest and most renowned auctioneers of fine art and antiques.
Read: Zainul Festival begins at Fine Arts faculty with a call to fight extremism
Dr Kenneth X. Robbins is a globally renowned researcher, archivist, and curator. A psychiatrist by profession, Dr Robbins started collecting Rajput, Deccani, Mughal, and other South Asian artifacts from dealers and auction houses in the 1960s and has used his collections to publish fourteen books on South Asian history and culture. His special interests range from Maharajas, Nawabs, and Deccani Sultans to minority groups like Afro-South Asians.
Read more: ‘Historical and unexplored ties between Afro-South Asian communities need cultural attention’
Earlier this year, Dr Robbins joined Cosmos Foundation as an Advisory Board member.
DCAB condemns targeted killing of journalists in Gaza
Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday expressed its grave concern over the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza strip.
Innocent journalists are being targeted frequently and at least 24 journalists have been killed since October 7.
US Ambassador hosts reception for DCAB
In a statement DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and General Secretary Emrul Kayesh condemned the targeted killing of innocent journalists in Gaza strip, noting that this is irreparable loss to their families.
Killing of journalists in line of duty is a heinous crime and cowardice act, the world must now speak out against the killing of innocent journalists in Gaza, they said.
DCAB pays tribute to Bangabandhu
DCAB demanded neutral and full investigation into those killings under the UN system and the persons involved in such killings need to be brought to justice .
DCAB called upon all sides to refrain from killing the innocent journalists.
Lotus, Kayesh elected DCAB President, GS
The DCAB executives expressed deep condolences and extended sympathy to the family members of the journalists who lost their precious lives.
US does not take a side on internal political matters: Spokesperson
The United States has reiterated that they do not take any side on Bangladesh’s domestic political affairs.
"I will just say that, no, we do not take a side on internal political matters," US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a regular media briefing in Washington on October 26 when his attention was drawn about pro-BNP participants in Talk-shows who keep referring to November 3 deadline by the US to Bangladesh leadership.
Also read: US citizens urged to review their personal security plans
US Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter recently paid a visit to Dhaka.
Pro-opposition speakers in different talk shows are claiming that US issued a deadline to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign by November 3rd or face the music, the questioner mentioned seeking a clarification.
The US Embassy in Dhaka, earlier, gave an explanation but did not endorse such report published by a media outlet from India recently.
Also read: USAID official highlights US support for Bangladesh’s economic development
Responding to another question, the spokesperson said they are monitoring reports about former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s "deteriorating" health.
"We have encouraged the Bangladeshi government to ensure a fair and transparent legal process for her. And I don’t have anything to add to – an internal legal process," Miller said.
Also read: US Ambassador Haas discusses ways to expand exports, LCs issues with agribusiness stakeholders
WFP, Bangladesh join hands to advance inclusive social protection programmes
The World Food Programme (WFP), the leading United Nations agency combating global hunger, and the Department of Women Affairs (DWA) of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Bangladesh on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), jointly committing to a more inclusive, nutrition-sensitive, and shock-responsive social protection programmes by 2026.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the DWA Headquarters in Dhaka by Farida Parveen, Director General of DWA and Dom Scalpelli, Resident Representative and Country Director of WFP.
The MoU on supporting the national institutions to strengthen their capacity to design and implement inclusive nutrition- and gender-sensitive and shock-responsive social protection programs by 2026 between World Food Programme (WFP) and the Department of Women Affairs (DWA) under the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs of the Government of Bangladesh was signed at the DWA in Dhaka on October 26.
Read: USAID official highlights US support for Bangladesh’s economic development
Under this MoU, DWA and WFP will work together to review policy and programme designs, with a specific focus on reforming the Mother and Child Benefit Programme (MCBP) and Vulnerable Women Benefit Programme as directed in the National Social Security Strategy (NSSS) and Second Phase Action Plan (2021-2026). The partnership will enhance the capacity of DWA officials at both national and sub-national levels to identify the right beneficiaries from the community, facilitate timely payment transfers and promote and capitalize on behaviour change learning outcomes. The joint collaboration also aspires to improve the monitoring and reporting system of social protection programmes along with well-established grievance redress mechanisms to ensure the voices of communities are heard and addressed accordingly.
Additionally, a technical advisory group will be formed for developing technology systems and processes, including technology-based solutions in learning hubs in urban areas, with plans for nationwide expansion.
"This MoU marks a significant step forward in the shared vision of WFP and the Government of Bangladesh in our journey to eliminate food insecurity and improve the population’s nutrition status. By leveraging the combined expertise and resources of WFP and DWA, we can create lasting, positive changes in the lives of Bangladeshi women and children who have yet to benefit from the country’s remarkable economic growth and development,” said Domenico Scalpelli, Resident Representative and Country Director of WFP.
Farida Parveen, Director General of DWA, echoed this sentiment: "We are thrilled to formalize this partnership with WFP. Together, we will work towards empowering women and children, especially those who are most vulnerable, and building a stronger and more inclusive social protection system."
WFP acknowledges the Australian Aid (DFAT) and the European Union (EU) for promoting Bangladesh's Nutrition Sensitive Social Protection programme. DFAT supported WFP for accomplishments with these two programmes, and the EU is providing budget support to MoWCA for MCBP.
Under the MoU, WFP and DWA will also work together to facilitate evidence generation, efficiency and effectiveness evaluation, and a better understanding of the attitudes of local communities towards nutrition and early childhood development.
The MoU is set to remain in force until December 31, 2026, while the collaboration will be guided by an annual joint work plan aligned with government priorities, funding allocations, and DWA's Annual Performance Appraisal.
US citizens urged to review their personal security plans
The US Embassy in Dhaka has reminded US citizens to review their personal security plans and always remain alert to their surroundings ahead of the political events scheduled for October 28.
"US citizens should practise vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence," said the Embassy in a 'demonstration alert'.
Read: BNP openly threatening with violence: Quader
On October 28, political rallies and sit-ins are planned for Dhaka and other cities across Bangladesh, with the largest ones planned near Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and on VIP Road near the Central Police Hospital, the US Embassy said.
Read: BNP fighting to destroy democracy, not protect it: Quader
"You (US citizens) should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings," reads the message.
Read more: BNP resolute to have Oct. 28 rally at iconic Nayapaltan
Despite huge challenges, Bangabandhu Tunnel completed with "high quality, efficiency": Project Manager
Project Manager of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel Yu Jingtao has said that although there were lots of difficulties, the Chinese side has completed the project with high quality and efficiency.
Yu said during the construction, they compiled a technical guideline for the project, which covers Chinese standards, including those for roads, bridges and tunnels, to help develop and improve Bangladeshi related industry.
Talking to Xinhua news agency, he said the tunnel is totally built with Chinese design, technology and standards.
Hundreds of people are busy with the final stages of completion and getting ready for the grand opening of the mega underwater tunnel leading to Bangladesh's largest Chattogram seaport.
The much-awaited Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, the first under-river tunnel in South Asia, some 242 km southeast of the capital Dhaka, is awaiting inauguration by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday.
Read: Bangabandhu Tunnel awaits inauguration; toll rates finalised
The tunnel, which has been implemented with joint funding from the governments of Bangladesh and China, and constructed by China Communications Construction Company Ltd. (CCCC), is 3.4 km with an approach road of 5.35 km alongside a 727-meter bridge linking the main city, port and the western side of the river with its eastern side.
The Chinese company designed and manufactured a tunnel boring machine with a diameter of 12 meters, which solved problems faced by underwater tunneling with the complicated geology of the Bay of Bengal, said the project manager.
Read: 2 tubes of Bangabandhu Tunnel likely to open this Oct, Nov: Quader
"The tunneling technology applied here is for the first time in Bangladesh," Bangladeshi engineer Shaheduzzaman said, adding that as an engineer, this tunnel presented a remarkable opportunity for him to learn about something.
"After a five-year journey with CCCC, now I'm more confident, skilled, professional and passionate. This project has genuinely transformed my life for the better. It's not just about career advancement, but about personal growth, learning and the immense satisfaction that comes from contributing to something for the development of our country," he said.
The project has created more than 5,000 jobs so far, trained local people on infrastructure construction skills and promoted local economic development.
Md Nurul Azim Sikder, associate professor at the Institute of Marine Science of University of Chattogram, said Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel is also the first ever under-river tunnel in Bangladesh for route communication in South Asia.
"Belt and Road Initiative and this tunnel will play a great role in improving Bangladesh's economy," the professor said, noting that it will connect Chattogram with Cox's Bazar and Matarbari deep-sea port through an alternative route.
Read: Construction companies claim "breakthrough" in Bangabandhu Tunnel work
Md Jasim Uddin Talukder, a local businessman, said the project will be a huge gate to open in tourism, especially in the southern region, since those who come from Dhaka or outside Chattogram will arrive at the very fastest time.
At the same time, work has begun to make economic zones in the southern region focusing on this tunnel, and it will play a huge role in the economic field, he said.
The tunnel will connect the proposed Asian Highway to Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox's Bazar Highway, and will reduce the distance from Chattogram to the southeastern seabeach town Cox's Bazar by 40 km.
Bangladeshi Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said it is a "monumental achievement" to usher in a new era of communication within the South Asian country, marking a source of immense national pride.
The inauguration of this remarkable project will herald Bangladesh's entry into the era of underwater tunnels, the minister said.
USAID official highlights US support for Bangladesh’s economic development
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia Änjali Kaur on Thursday completed her five-day visit to Bangladesh highlighting USAID investments in agriculture, business, and women’s empowerment.
Kaur met with Agriculture Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque to underscore the ongoing partnership between the United States and Bangladesh in accelerating economic growth through agriculture, said the US Embassy in Dhaka.
Read: USAID-funded RDM activity concludes, leaving a “lasting impact” on Bangladesh and beyond
Deputy Assistant Administrator Kaur also traveled to Jashore and Khulna to observe USAID-supported project sites and meet farmers, agribusiness owners, and entrepreneurs.
Each year, USAID invests over $40 million to help farmers and producers increase production and improve efficiency throughout the agricultural sector, resulting in average combined annual sales of up to $700 million.
Kaur met with Talukder Abdul Khaleque, mayor of Khulna city, to highlight USAID’s partnership with local leaders and community members – and learn how they work together to improve water and sanitation, waste management, and other public services in underserved neighborhoods of the city.
Read: USAID committed to standing with Bangladeshi partners for a "more resilient and prosperous" future, says its Mission Director
She also met members of USAID-sponsored female youth nutrition and empowerment group at a secondary girls school, who advocate against early marriage and promote healthy behaviors among classmates, friends, and family.
The US Embassy says USAID invests more than $300 million annually in Bangladesh to improve health, education, agriculture, and resilience to climate change and disasters, and provides humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees and other emergencies.
Read more: Committed to strengthening ties with Bangladesh as key strategic partner: New USAID Mission Director
US Ambassador Haas discusses ways to expand exports, LCs issues with agribusiness stakeholders
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas and the Agricultural Attaché of the embassy talked to agribusiness stakeholders during a dinner on Wednesday (October 25, 2023) night about ways to expand exports. During the dinner, the ambassador also noted challenges including securing letters of credit (LCs), US Embassy Spokesperson Stephen Ibelli said today (October 26, 2023).
The US Embassy Agricultural Attaché, other staff members, and the ambassador attended the dinner hosted by W&W Grains, an authorized Cargill Distributor (an American company), to meet with key private sector agribusiness representatives, the spokesperson said while clarifying “inaccurate reporting” regarding the dinner.
Read: US envoy Peter Haas meets editors
In 2022, the United States exported over USD 900 million worth of agricultural products to Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s agribusinesses are valued partners of the United States as the country looks to provide products including soybeans, wheat, cotton and other items that contribute to Bangladesh’s economic growth – from livestock development to the readymade garment sector, said the embassy spokesperson.
Read: US to send pre-election assessment and monitoring team in early Oct: Peter Haas
A diplomatic source said several diplomats from other countries, including the charge d'affaires of the Singapore Embassy, attended the dinner.
Read more: Shared principles and ability to continually ‘form a more perfect union’ are the anchor of US-Bangladesh relations: Peter Haas