United News of Bangladesh

The Council of Advisers has approved a proposal from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish two new embassies, one in Dublin, Ireland, and the other in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The decision was taken at the 48th meeting of the Council of Advisers, presided over by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Bangladesh on Wednesday (12th November 2025) expressed displeasure over the interviews of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina published by Indian media outlets. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally conveyed Dhaka's displeasure to New Delhi through Indian Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka Pawan Badhe, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB. Read more: Tensions rise as ICT going to set verdict date in Hasina case The Indian diplomat was asked to convey to New Delhi Bangladesh's request to stop Hasina's access to media, said a diplomatic source. The AFP, Reuters and the Independent (UK) also interviewed Hasina recently.

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea, in partnership with the Bangladesh Association of Foreign & Import Food Suppliers Association (BAFISA), hosted "K-Food Export Promotion" seminar to explore the expanding opportunities and navigate the challenges for Korean food products in the rapidly growing Bangladesh market. The event brought together diplomats, government officials, and leading industry experts to facilitate stronger trade ties in the food sector. Nahian Rahman Rochi, Head of Business Development of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) spoke at the event as special guest. Park Young-sik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea said this event serves as a meaningful platform to explore new opportunities for cooperation in the food sector between Korea and Bangladesh, at a time when Korean food is gaining remarkable popularity around the world. With the participation of BAFISA members and the cooperation of BIDA, the seminar helped share market insights, introduced product categories and standards including halal compliance and quality assurance and built practical links among stakeholders. Korean companies have been long-standing partners of Bangladesh, contributing significantly to the rise of the RMG industry. "I believe that bilateral CEPA could serve as the next motor engine to elevate our partnership to new heights in the next fifty years," said the Ambassador. A key focus of the seminar was tackling practical aspects of market entry.

UK Minister for International Development Jenny Chapman has said that the United Kingdom is proud to stand with Bangladesh as a genuine partner. From supporting the Rohingya refugees being hosted by Bangladeshi communities, to tackling the climate crisis and irregular migration, she said their work together is delivering real and positive impacts for both the countries. Jenny Chapman made the remarks in a statement on Wednesday ahead of her Bangladesh visit. She will confirm UK support for Rohingya refugees, including women and girls, while visiting Bangladesh from November 13-14, said the British High Commission in Dhaka on Wednesday. During her visit, Minister Chapman will see UK-funded programmes supporting Rohingya refugees to help prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).  The UK continues to call for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar when conditions allow. This visit follows the recent announcement of a new £27 million package of aid to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to over half a million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. While in Bangladesh, the Minister will also meet with key figures in the interim government, including Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, and Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Ashik Chowdhury. She will also attend a roundtable focused on UK–Bangladesh cooperation on irregular migration. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said this visit underscores the UK's commitment to a modern, mutually beneficial development partnership with Bangladesh. Minister Chapman will also announce the UK will provide new support to tackle the impacts of the climate crisis in twelve Asian and African countries and regions, including Bangladesh while on the visit. This includes UK help to build resilience for vulnerable and food-insecure households and communities through the Resilience and Adaptation Fund. This will provide skills training in areas like climate-resilient farming techniques designed to withstand seasonal flooding and cyclones to tens of thousands of households. Denmark’s APM Terminals to make record $550mn investment in Bangladesh The UK announced a £27 million package of aid in September to provide food, shelter, clean water, and other life-saving services to half a million Rohingya refugees displaced from Myanmar by conflict and persecution. The UK is a leading long-term contributor to the Rohingya response in Bangladesh, having provided over £447 million since 2017. The UK will provide £30 million uplift to the Resilience and Adaptation Fund. £4 million has been allocated to Bangladesh, with eleven other countries and regions also set to receive funding (Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Myanmar, Nigeria, the Sahel, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria and Uganda).   

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said the prolonged concentration of displaced Rohingyas in camps has created rising security challenges, including human trafficking, smuggling of drugs, arms and ammunition, which are affecting both the camps and the host communities. He expressed concern over the declining global attention and funding for the crisis, and called for Canada's assistance in mobilising enhanced international funding, while highlighting that repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar remains the only sustainable solution. Adviser Hossain made the remarks when a delegation of a senate member with two senior parliamentarians of the Parliament of Canada along with executives from Human Concern International (HCI), an international non-government organisation, called on him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. National Security Adviser and High Representative for the Rohingya Issue Dr Khalilur Rahman was also present during the meeting. The discussions focused on the Rohingya crisis, particularly the delegation's first-hand experience from their recent visit to the Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Adviser thanked Canada for its continued humanitarian assistance and longstanding support on the Rohingya issue. The delegation deeply appreciated Bangladesh's continued humanitarian support and generosity in sheltering and supporting the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals. The parliamentarians, who are also the members of important Standing Committees of Canada like the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Committee on Citizenship and Immigration, acknowledged Bangladesh's efforts and reiterated Canada's continued support for humanitarian assistance and the pursuit of a durable solution. The Canadian side also flagged the importance of providing education to Rohingya children, particularly higher education opportunities for the youth, emphasizing that education could enhance skills, reduce trafficking risks, promote positive social behaviour, and ultimately contribute to the repatriation process. Commenting on this point, the National Security Adviser and High Representative for the Rohingya issue apprised that the process needs careful scrutiny, as it may involve long-term employment implications that may affect local wages. He, however, expressed optimism that consultations, verification processes, and coordination with relevant stakeholders and international partners are ongoing to address these concerns effectively. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the robust, friendly and mutually beneficial partnership between Bangladesh and Canada.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday said Bangladesh is now preparing for the national election, which will be a historic moment for the nation. “You’ve come at a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a significant transformation, an uprising led by young people. Now we are preparing for the election, which will be a historic moment for the nation,” the Chief Adviser said. Prof Yunus made the remarks when Canadian Senator Salma Ataullahjan, two MPs, Salma Zahid and Sameer Zuberi, called on him at the State Guest House Jamuna. Led by Senator Salma Ataullahjan, the team discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral trade cooperation and address the Rohingya crisis, said the Chief Adviser's press wing. The Chief Adviser briefed the delegation on the ongoing reforms and preparations for the upcoming February election. He also thanked Canada for its steadfast support for the Rohingya community.

Bangladeshi expatriates, along with the Saudi audience, enjoyed a vibrant celebration of Bangladeshi heritage on Tuesday night (KSA time) as the ‘Bangladesh Culture’ segment of the Global Harmony festival lit up Al-Suwaidi Park with colorful cultural displays, music and dance performances. The event, hosted by popular Bangladeshi actress Prarthana Fardin Dighi and Rabiul Haque Zaman, showcased the rich traditions, music, dance and cuisine of Bangladesh as part of Saudi Arabia’s Global Harmony initiative. Thousands of expatriate Bangladeshis, along with some of their families, gathered to enjoy live performances and sing together, transforming the park into a sea of sounds and lights. For many, it was an emotional and pride-filled night, a moment to reconnect with their roots and share their culture with the wider Saudi community, celebrating unity, friendship and the growing cultural ties between Bangladesh and the Kingdom. “This is absolutely amazing. We remain busy, struggling every day here to keep our families smiling back home. This event is refreshing and a chance to share joy with friends,” Rumel, a Bangladeshi expatriate who attended with his friends, told UNB. Actress Dighi said she would be hosting the Bangladesh Culture programmes until November 14. Swedish envoy in Bangladesh on four-day rights mission “I came here to host for the first time — a role I’ve never played before. It feels wonderful to be here, close to the Bangladeshi community. The audience is amazing. We are grateful to the Saudi authorities and the Ministry of Media,” she told UNB. Sarry Shaaban, spokesperson for the Global Harmony committee, expressed his excitement at hosting one of the largest expatriate communities in Saudi Arabia as part of the initiative. “We are thrilled to have the Bangladeshi community join us. This event will help Saudi audiences learn more about Bangladesh and its culture,” he said. Sarry added that the programme is open to everyone. “It’s free for all to attend and enjoy. For many, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a second home — we’re happy to host them,” he said. Other nations and regions to be featured in the event include Egypt (Nov. 15–17); the Levant (Nov. 18–20); Yemen (Nov. 21–28); Pakistan (Nov. 29–Dec. 1); Indonesia (Dec. 2–4); the Philippines (Dec. 5–8); Uganda (Dec. 9–10); Ethiopia (Dec. 11–13); and Sudan (Dec. 14–20). The Global Harmony initiative was first launched in October 2024 to celebrate the diversity of the Kingdom’s residents. South Korea committed to working with WFP on Rohingyas Last year’s event celebrated the cultures of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and the Philippines. This year’s Bangladesh Culture Week features a diverse lineup of artistes, celebrities, and influencers from Bangladesh, including renowned singer Asif Akbar and actress Dighi, in a colorful showcase of the country’s cultural identity. Packed with lively performances, traditional music and dance and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine, the celebration promises to be a spectacular display of Bangladesh’s rich heritage. Artistes will present a variety of cultural and theatrical performances reflecting the nation’s artistic excellence. Last year’s event featured legendary Bangladeshi rock icon Nagar Baul James, DJ Sonica, and popular singers Habib Wahid, Porshi, and Beauty Khan — with James’s first-ever performance in Riyadh being a major highlight. The Global Harmony initiative continues to host a series of cultural weeks representing 14 countries over a span of 49 days. The programme is part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, reinforcing Riyadh’s position as a global hub for cultural and civilizational diversity. MSF exchanges views with journalists in Dhaka The Saudi Ministry of Media recently concluded the Indian Cultural Week, another installment of the Global Harmony 2 initiative, while the Bangladesh segment began on November 11. The Indian Cultural Week attracted over 200,000 visitors and featured an array of artistic and cultural performances reflecting the deep-rooted ties between Saudi Arabia and India, while also celebrating Riyadh’s growing cultural diversity. The week, organized under the Quality of Life Program supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, brought together more than 100 Indian artistes who presented theatrical, artistic, and heritage performances showcasing India’s rich cultural identity. Interactive pavilions displayed traditional arts, crafts, cuisine, and customs from different regions of India, drawing significant attention from diplomats, cultural figures, and large crowds of citizens, residents, and members of the Indian community. The week concluded with energetic performances by Indian troupes that received enthusiastic applause, embodying the spirit of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation that the Kingdom seeks to promote.  

Sweden’s Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy and Rule of Law, Irina Schoulgin-Nyoni, is now on a four-day visit to Bangladesh, focusing on key human rights issues, including the rights and empowerment of women and girls, freedom of expression and media freedom, and the role of civil society in promoting democratic values. During her November 11 to 14 visit, Schoulgin-Nyoni will meet representatives of the interim government, civil society organisations, development partners, students and media actors, said the Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka on Wednesday. Sweden has a long-standing commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights globally, reflected in its decision to appoint an ambassador dedicated to human rights. The Ambassador’s mandate includes advocating for human rights in bilateral and multilateral contexts, engaging with stakeholders around the world, and supporting Sweden’s foreign policy priorities in areas such as gender equality, democracy and the rule of law. IOM, Human Concern International partner to combat human trafficking in Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar Sweden’s engagement is both principled and practical. In Bangladesh, Sweden works actively to support human rights through development cooperation, political dialogue, and partnerships with civil society. A concrete example is Sweden’s support to initiatives that strengthen the rights and agency of women and girls – from efforts to combat gender-based violence to promoting access to education and sexual and reproductive health and rights. The visit also highlights Sweden’s strategic partnership with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). This collaboration began prior to the July uprising and was further strengthened through OHCHR’s fact-finding mission, which produced key recommendations to advance human rights in Bangladesh. Sweden supports the implementation of several of these recommendations, including efforts to strengthen national institutions, promote accountability and nurture civil society. A key milestone was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Bangladesh and OHCHR in July 2025, establishing the country’s first dedicated OHCHR Mission – grounded in impartiality, independence, and respect for the rule of law. With flexible funding from Sweden, OHCHR has been able to maintain its presence and deliver concrete results. This includes support to the Commission of Inquiry on enforced disappearances, which has documented nearly 2000 cases. Together, Sweden and OHCHR continue to promote justice, gender equality, and inclusive civic space – including support to the National Human Rights Commission, legal reform efforts, and the empowerment of emerging civil society actors, particularly youth.  

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Tuesday (11th November 2025) dismissed as "baseless and unbelievable" the Indian media reports claiming that Hafiz Saeed, chief of Pakistan’s Lashkar-e-Taiba, had plotted attacks in India using Bangladesh territory. Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hossain said there was no reason to give credence to such reports published by Indian media outlets. “Whatever happens, the media will try to put the blame on us,” he said. “But there is no reason to believe this. No sensible person would believe it.” Meanwhile, Bangladesh High Commissioner in New Delhi and all members of the High Commission on Monday deeply condoled the tragic death of at least 13 Indians and many injured in the car blast in Red Fort in Delhi. "Our earnest thoughts | prayers remain with all those impacted, including their families," said the High Commission in a message. The High Commission said Bangladesh stands by India at this distressful hour. Govt welcomes only genuine foreign election observers: Touhid Thousands of tourists visit the 17th Century Red Fort every day, which lies just a few metres from a busy trading hub. Delhi's police commissioner says it happened 18:52 local time (13:22 GMT), when a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light before it exploded. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares his condolences "to those who have lost their loved ones" and says he is reviewing the situation. Police say they have not yet found what caused the blast. Bangladesh stands by India at this distressful hour

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh Young Sik Park on Tuesday said they remain dedicated to working with the government of Bangladesh and WFP to respond to the growing needs of the Rohingya community. “We are pleased to contribute to WFP’s lifesaving work in Bangladesh. Decades ago, Korea was one of the largest recipients of WFP assistance. Today, we are proud to stand on the other side – as a committed donor supporting those in need," he said. The government of Bangladesh, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) held a handover ceremony for a rice donation by the Republic of Korea in support of the Rohingya response. The ceremony took place at WFP’s Alongkar Warehouse in Chattogram and was attended by Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief; Young Sik Park, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh; and Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director. The event also paid tribute to Korean farmers whose hard work made contributions like this possible, as it coincided with Korea’s Farmer’s Day on 11 November. This is the second donation – 20,265 metric tonnes – from the Republic of Korea, made through its Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA). In 2024, a 15,000 mt rice donation was also made for the Rohingya response. In addition to rice, MAFRA this year provided fortified rice kernels, which contain essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, B1, B12, zinc, iron, and folic acid, all critical for health and cognitive development, especially for children. The kernels and regular rice grains will be blended locally at a ratio of 1:100. After blending, the donation will be delivered to Cox’s Bazar, ready for distribution to the Rohingya community. This year’s contribution is enough to feed the entire Rohingya population of over 1.1 million for nearly two months, and is part of Korea’s global donation of 150,000 metric tonnes of rice to WFP operations in 17 countries. “We thank the Republic of Korea for being a steadfast partner in the Rohingya response. As humanitarian funding continues to decline while needs rise sharply, this contribution is both timely and vital. We urge the international community to step up support – not only to meet immediate needs but also to help us find a long-term solution for the Rohingya people,” said Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. As the crisis enters its ninth year, the prospect of voluntary, safe and dignified return for the Rohingya population – now more than 1.1 million people – remains distant. Since early 2024, more than 130,000 new arrivals have reached the camps, fleeing ongoing conflict in Rakhine State, Myanmar. According to the 2025 Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, over 446,000 Rohingya (40%) are projected to be severely food insecure, with nearly 223,000 facing emergency-level food insecurity (IPC Phase 4). While the needs are rising in the camps, funding is dwindling. WFP’s funding outlook for 2026 is extremely low, and without new resources, lifesaving operations will face major disruptions as early as April 2026. Expand Bangladesh-South Korea cooperation: Seminar  “This generous donation from the people of the Republic of Korea is a powerful testament to their solidarity and compassion. Their journey from receiving aid to becoming a valued donor is truly inspiring. We also commend the people of Bangladesh for their unwavering hospitality and humanity. WFP remains steadfast in our commitment to both communities, but we urgently need additional support to meet the essential needs of the Rohingya and safeguard their dignity and wellbeing,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director. “We deeply value the Republic of Korea’s steadfast partnership with Bangladesh. Our bilateral relations, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations, continue to flourish in trade, investment, development cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. We also express our sincere appreciation to the ROK for supporting humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives concerning the Rohingya issue,” said Md. Morshedur Rahman Talukder, Director, Myanmar Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.