United News of Bangladesh

Speakers at the regional consultation meeting of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature. The consultation aimed to address growing environmental challenges in agriculture by focusing on key issues such as restoring degraded soils, enhancing biodiversity, and building climate-resilient food systems to ensure long-term food security in South Asia. The SAC has concluded a three-day virtual Regional Consultation Meeting, from August 4 to 6, on "Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture in SAARC Member States." The event brought together delegates from six SAARC countries, agricultural research bodies, universities, and international agencies to develop a collaborative strategy for promoting regenerative agriculture across the region. Urgency and Collaboration Emphasised Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, additional foreign secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) of Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served as the chief guest for the opening session. He stressed the urgent need to restore soil health and biodiversity and urged the SAC to lead a regional movement for agricultural transformation, integrating digital tools and practical strategies. Md. Harunur Rashid, director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre, chaired the session. He highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a "transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature." He emphasised that these practices are crucial for long-term food security, improving farmer livelihoods, and strengthening regional agri-food systems. Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat, Nepal, attended as a Special Guest. He pointed out the economic benefits of regenerative agriculture, stating, "This approach not only improves soil and environmental health but also delivers financial returns to farmers." He called for a collaborative framework involving governments, scientists, and the private sector to scale up these practices. Expert Presentations and Recommendations Over the three days, six technical sessions featured more than 20 expert presentations. Focal point scientists and national specialists from SAARC member states presented country-specific papers, highlighting common regional challenges like rising temperatures, soil degradation, water scarcity, and financial constraints faced by farmers. The experts advocated for knowledge sharing, farmer training, and the creation of large-scale extension programs tailored to the region's specific needs. Many speakers called for strong government support and greater cooperation among SAARC countries to facilitate the widespread adoption of regenerative practices, according to a press release.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke on Wednesday formally presented the insignia of the Honorary Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) to Executive Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) Shaheen Anam. “I am delighted to present this award to Shaheen Anam on behalf of His Majesty The King,” Sarah Cooke. At the ceremony held at the British High Commission in Dhaka, she said, “Her tireless dedication and commitment to human rights, social justice and gender equality have made a lasting impact in Bangladesh, reflecting the shared values and enduring partnership between our two countries.” Anam was named an Honorary MBE by His Majesty King Charles III in February 2025 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social justice, inclusion and gender equality in Bangladesh—values that are deeply shared by both the UK and Bangladesh.  The UK has maintained a longstanding partnership with the Manusher Jonno Foundation for over two decades, working collaboratively to advance human rights and empower marginalised communities across the country, said a media release. Through this partnership, the UK government has supported over 460 grassroots organisations, enabling transformative work that promotes dignity, inclusion and justice for all.

Outgoing Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands André Carstens has commended Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus for his leadership over the past year, particularly in steering Bangladesh through a transitional period following the ouster of the previous regime. ‘July Charter’ a historic achievement; it's now at final stage: Prof Yunus Carstens, who has been Charge D’Affaires of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Bangladesh since 2025, paid a farewell visit to the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna on Wednesday. He highlighted Yunus' efforts in fostering democratic reforms and national unity. "People will remember you," Carstens said. Carstens also praised the recently unveiled ‘July Declaration’, describing it as a pivotal step in ‘bridging’ the nation's historical context with the aspirations of the July mass uprising, , said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. The envoy referred to the Chief Adviser's announcement of the election timeline as ‘perfect’, indicating it sets the country on a path toward general elections. They discussed the ongoing Rohingya crisis and the forthcoming international conference on the issue, scheduled to be held in September. The conference aims to address the humanitarian and political challenges faced by the Rohingya refugees. In a gesture of solidarity, Carstens presented Prof Yunus with lyrics that he wrote celebrating the spirit of the July uprising led by Bangladesh's Gen-Z. The lyrics, which Carstens put to music originally written by George Harrison for the song ‘Bangladesh’, recorded and accompanied by a video, was shared during the meeting. "Bangladesh, Bangladesh Full of friendly people, doing fine Revolution paved the way For to say they want to say Not just a fairy tale, a holy grail For all the people of Bangladesh," he writes. "Bangladesh, Bangladesh Such a resurrection- the Gulf of Bengal Revolution paved the way After many years astray Gen Z showed the way Turned a nightmare into a day," he writes. Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi and SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed were also present during the meeting.

Nepal's Communication and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung on Tuesday described the July Mass Uprising as a 'collective will of the people of Bangladesh for democracy' and a momentum created by the new generation. He underlined the long-standing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Nepal and assured Nepal’s full support to the government towards a democratic transition. The Nepalese Minister recalled the collaboration in various sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, ICT and people- to-people contact and stressed the need for forging new cooperation between the two friendly nations in this inter-connected world. Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu observed the 'July Mass Uprising Day' with due solemnity and fervour in its premises. The Nepalese Minister joined the event as the guest of honour and Secretary General of SAARC Md Golam Sarwar attended as a special guest. A good number of local civil society members, including former Ambassadors of Nepal to Bangladesh, prominent businessmen and entrepreneurs, doctors, other professionals and members of Bangladesh community, participated in the programme. Officials and representatives from regional organisations like SAARC Secretariat, ICIMOD, UNICEF and different societies and organisations were also present during the celebration of the Day'. The event started with playing the national anthems of Nepal and Bangladesh. Later, a one-minute silence was observed to pay homage and tributes to the martyrs of the Mass Uprising. Messages from the President and Chief Adviser of Bangladesh were read out and a documentary titled 'July Anirban' was screened during the event. The Secretary-General of SAARC referred July Mass Uprising as an unprecedented event in the history of Bangladesh, in his speech. He paid tributes to the martyrs who made ultimate sacrifices for the economic and political freedom of the people of Bangladesh. Recalling the great roles of the July fighters in emancipating the people from a long-drawn authoritarian rule, Bangladesh Ambassador to Nepal Md Shafiqur Rahman commended the young generation, Gen Z—who rose up against oppression, and deprivation in all forms, particularly, ending a fascist regime and restoring democracy in the country. He also thanked the expatriate Bangladeshis for their heroic role in the July Mass Uprising. Terming the Uprising as an opportunity, he urged all stakeholders to work together to supporting the initiatives of the interim government in building a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh. Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu said they are organizing a series of events as part its observance of 'July Revival Ceremonies-2025'.

The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday commemorated the first anniversary of the July Uprising that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government on August 5 last year. The event began with the reading of official messages from President Mohammad Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus. In his message, President Shahabuddin emphasised the need to "uproot fascist roots" and fully realize the spirit of the July movement to build a "happy and prosperous Bangladesh." Chief Adviser Prof Yunus remarked that the sacrifices made during the uprising would be meaningful only if the country is transformed into a "truly public welfare state." Two documentaries chronicling the events of the July movement were screened during the program, according to a media release issued by the High Commission.  

The United Kingdom (UK) has invited applications for prestigious Chevening Scholarships to study in the UK. The applicants can apply from August 5 to October 7, 2025. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke on Tuesday said the Chevening Scholarship programme continues to empower Bangladesh’s brightest minds, fostering leadership and innovation. “We are proud to support these talented individuals as they pursue world-class education in the UK, building bridges for a stronger, more connected future,” she said. Since the programme started in 1983, more than 372 Bangladeshi individuals have been awarded Chevening scholarships, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to developing the leaders of tomorrow, said the UK government in a media release. The Chevening programme offers fully-funded master’s degrees at UK universities to individuals who are ready to lead positive change in their home countries and around the world. For more than 40 years, Chevening has attracted hundreds of thousands of applications globally. Successful applicants are individuals who can clearly demonstrate outstanding leadership, influence, and networking skills through compelling, evidence-based examples.

Paying tribute to the brave martyrs of the July mass uprising, Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan Md Daud Ali on Tuesday called upon all to come forward collectively to build the country embodying the spirit of July. Marking the Day, he also recalled the contributions of the remittance fighters to the country's economic development and urged the remittance fighters to send more remittances through proper channel. The Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo observed the ‘July Mass Uprising Day’ with due respect at the Embassy auditorium.  A minute of silence was observed in memory of the martyrs of the July Uprising at the beginning of the event. Messages from the President and the Chief Adviser on ‘July Mass Uprising Day’ were read out, said the Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo in a media release. Don’t bow heads, build a non-discriminatory state: Prof Yunus

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Monday said Bangladesh is yet to receive any positive response from India regarding its request for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s extradition to face trial at home. "There is no new information on this. Bangladesh has asked India to return Sheikh Hasina to face trial. There has been no positive response from India yet," he told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy. Hasina fled from Bangladesh on August 5 last year in the face of massive student-led protests. Touhid Hossain said Bangladesh is waiting for a response from New Delhi. He said Hasina's trial has already begun and whether someone comes or not, the trial does not stop. Responding to a question on whether the government will seek international assistance to bring Sheikh Hasina back to the country, the Foreign Affairs Adviser said the government can seek assistance if it deems it necessary. "However, I do not see any need at the moment." Last month, the Foreign Adviser said the government would continue to pursue her extradition of former Prime Minister Hasina, currently reported to be in India since August 5 last year. Bangladesh sent a diplomatic note (note verbale) to India in December last year, along with a set of supporting documents, formally requesting Hasina's extradition.

The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) inaugurated at a three-day virtual regional consultation meeting on Monday to promote regenerative agriculture among its member states. The consultation, titled “Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture in SAARC Member States,” will continue until Wednesday, and includes participants from SAARC nations, various agricultural research organisations, universities, and international bodies. The opening session Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, additional foreign secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was present as the chief guest. He underscored the critical need for South Asian countries to adopt regenerative agriculture, emphasising its potential to restore soil health, leverage digital tools, and develop effective strategies. He called on the SAC to lead this initiative, which he believes will also help in restoring biodiversity across the region. Md. Harunur Rashid, the director of SAC, who chaired the meeting, reiterated SAC's commitment to promoting sustainable and innovative farming practices in South Asia, stating that regenerative agriculture not only addresses environmental issues but also ensures long-term productivity and resilience for farming systems. Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat in Nepal, attended as a special guest. He highlighted the economic benefits of the approach, noting that it improves soil and environmental health while also delivering financial returns for farmers. He stressed that a collaborative regional framework is essential to scale up these practices throughout the SAARC region. The inaugural session also featured presentations from experts, including  Debashis Chakraborty of the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and  Sikander Khan Tanveer, a senior program specialist at SAC. Their presentations focused on how regenerative agriculture can restore the "Earth’s balance through soil, science, and stewardship" and provided an overview of the consultation’s objectives and program. The first day of the event included presentations from each of the SAARC member states, with scientists and specialists sharing their country-specific reports on regenerative agriculture. The consultation's primary goal is to foster regional cooperation, facilitate the exchange of knowledge, and align policies to promote these practices, with a focus on restoring degraded soils, enhancing biodiversity, and building climate-resilient food systems in South Asia, according to a press release.

Referring to 1971 issues with Pakistan, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Monday said each issue would be on the table for discussions as Dhaka is set to receive his Pakistani counterpart on August 23. Bangladesh, Pakistan express solidarity with Palestine "Each issue will be on the table," Adviser Hossain told reporters when asked whether Bangladesh will raise the issues of seeking public apology by Pakistan and due compensation. Talking to the journalists at the Foreign Service Academy, Hossain said the interim government is approaching in a "pragmatic way" in terms of its relations with Pakistan, stressing that everything will be on the table for discussion during Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Ishaq Dar's scheduled visit later this month. During Foreign Secretary level talks in Dhaka on April 17, Bangladesh raised historical unsettled issues with Pakistan, including a formal public apology for the atrocities committed against Bangladesh during 1971 War of Liberation by the Pakistan forces and pending financial claims from Pakistan. These issues need to be resolved for having a solid foundation of our relations, said then Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. Responding to a question, Adviser Hossain, said Bangladesh does not decide how India develops its relations with Pakistan and the same way India does not decide how Bangladesh develops its relations with Pakistan. Hossain said they do not want to see one aspect of relations gets stuck for another aspect of the relations. Bangladesh sees willingness from the Pakistan side to remain engaged on those issues as the talks began between Dhaka and Islamabad after 15 years. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on August 23 to discuss ways to strengthen coordination with Bangladesh. Dhaka to urge Beijing for lower interest rates, extended repayment period: Touhid Hossain He will have a bilateral meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on August 24 in addition to his other engagements. His previous scheduled visit to Bangladesh in April was postponed. The visit was postponed amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. “Owing to unforeseen circumstances, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan is unable to undertake the visit to Bangladesh on 27-28 April 2025,” said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan at that time. Later, the two sides finalised new date through mutual consultations. In July last week, Bangladesh and Pakistan expressed deep concern over the ongoing Israeli aggression and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Palestine, reiterating their unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people and their just cause. The message was conveyed during a meeting between Ishaq Dar and Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Hossain, held on the sidelines of the International Conference on the Two-State Solution at the United Nations. This was their fourth meeting since October 2024. They also reviewed bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political, economic and cultural cooperation, while exploring ways to enhance connectivity and people-to-people exchanges, the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka said. The two sides agreed to undertake high-level visits in the near future.