United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s East West University (EWU) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan’s Okayama Shoka University to launch a student exchange program between the two institutions. The signing ceremony was held on Monday at Okayama University in Okayama, Japan, said a press release. The MoU was signed by Professor Akio Ijiri, President of Okayama Shoka University and Dr. Asik Mossadik, Pro Vice-Chancellor of East West University. Md. Daud Ali, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Japan, attended the ceremony and underscored the diplomatic and educational significance of this partnership. The collaboration marks a significant milestone in Okayama University’s ongoing internationalisation initiatives. The Japanese university currently maintains exchange programs with 60 universities in China and 3 universities in South Korea, while new partnerships with institutions in Vietnam and Thailand are in progress. The newly signed MoU aims to facilitate reciprocal student mobility, fostering cross-cultural understanding, joint research, academic collaboration and opportunity to study at Okayama Shoka University in Japan during the 3rd and 4th years of the undergraduate course. It is also expected to expand career opportunities for Bangladeshi students in Japan. Details regarding the implementation and timeline of the first student exchanges will be announced soon.

Bangladeshi migrant rights groups have demanded immediate action to ensure justice, fair compensation and payment of overdue wages for Bangladeshi workers allegedly subjected to abuse by two Malaysian companies -- Mediceram and Kawaguchi. The call came during a human chain organised on Monday in front of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment by the Migrant Welfare Network Malaysia and a Bangladesh-based expatriate rights platform. Speakers at the programme compared the exploitation faced by workers at the two firms to modern-day slavery, blaming both the Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia and the Expatriates’ Welfare Ministry for failing to protect the victims. Workers who had been employed at Mediceram alleged that they were subjected to delayed payments, threats, physical abuse, and inhumane living conditions for years. The company allegedly confiscated their passports, and many workers became undocumented as their work permits were not renewed. New doors open to Malaysia for Bangladeshi recruiting agencies, but new rules deemed too strict In early November, the company reportedly forcibly deported 15 workers who had demanded renewal of their permits and payment of back wages. Meanwhile, workers from Kawaguchi said they have been facing irregular salary payments since 2022 and went seven months without pay as of September 2024. Although some compensation was given, most have yet to receive their full dues. The company’s owner reportedly shut down operations without paying 30 lakh ringgit in arrears owed to 251 workers. The protesting workers presented seven demands, including immediate compensation for those forcibly deported from Mediceram, a halt to all forced repatriations, and assistance in transferring affected workers to responsible employers through proper legal channels. They also called for a ban on hiring Bangladeshi workers by Mediceram and its associated companies, and demanded full payment of overdue wages from Kawaguchi. Besides, the protesters urged reforms in the operations of the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur to make it more migrant-friendly and called for a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s recruitment and migration system, emphasising the protection of workers’ rights over remittance inflow.

Denmark has launched a new partnership to strengthen human rights, trauma-informed mental health and media freedom in Bangladesh. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, has called on civil society and state institutions to strengthen the country’s capacity in human rights and help build a more inclusive future. In response, the Embassy of Denmark in Bangladesh has announced its support of DKK 25 million to a consortium consisting of DIGNITY, IMS, and the Danish Institute for Human Rights. The consortium will partner with local actors to advance human rights, free independent media and access to rehabilitation for survivors of violence and torture. “Right now, there is a unique opportunity to strengthen civil society in Bangladesh and address important challenges of human rights violations and impunity”, said Christian Brix Møller, Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh on Monday. Expand Bangladesh-South Korea cooperation: Seminar  “We strongly believe that the upcoming program will contribute to revitalizing the pursuit of justice and democratic reform for the people of Bangladesh, as the three consortium partners have the relevant expertise to support civil society in promoting human rights and democracy,” the Ambassador said. Each of the three organisations in the consortium has extensive experience of working in countries marked by both repressive regimes and democratic transition processes where support for civil society is essential. “A strong civil society is crucial in advancing human rights and securing accountability and rehabilitation for survivors of torture and violence. In DIGNITY we look very much forward to supporting local partners with capacity building and help them deliver survivor-centered approaches and strengthen referral systems for the benefit of the survivors”, said Rasmus Grue Christensen, CEO of DIGNITY. Executive Director at IMS, Jesper Højberg agrees with Rasmus Grue Christensen about the importance of a strong civil society: “At IMS, we know that meaningful change is only possible through genuine partnership. By working closely with local organisations, civil society and government, we aim to strengthen the foundations of Bangladesh’s media sector. Our shared goal is to ensure that every person in Bangladesh has access to trustworthy, independent information. Together, we can build a media environment where diverse voices are heard, journalists are protected, and the public’s right to reliable news is upheld—laying the groundwork for a more open and resilient society”. The Danish Institute for Human Rights will have a particular focus on supporting the reform of the country’s National Human Rights Institution, Bangladesh’s National Human Rights Commission. Committed to advancing connectivity, economic integration: Thai Ambassador “We see a unique opportunity to support both institutional reform and civic engagement in Bangladesh. Reforming the National Human Rights Commission is key, and to be effective, our engagement will also build bridges and work with civil society and youth to articulate human rights demands and shape the country’s future. Our role is to help connect these actors and support a coherent, inclusive transition”, says Mette Thygesen, International Director at the Danish Institute for Human Rights DIGNITY will work to strengthen the capacity of local civil society to provide trauma-informed mental health and psychosocial support to survivors of torture and violence as well as address the lack of access to justice for survivors. The organization will support the local capacity by providing training and mentoring to equip local partners to deliver services, applying survivor-centered approaches, while contributing to strengthening the systemic access to services in collaboration with state actors and private and public providers e.g. through the development of a stronger referral system to expand survivors’ access to rehabilitation and legal services. IMS (International Media Support) aims to foster a pluralistic, inclusive, and resilient media environment during the country’s fragile political transition. Its core objectives in Bangladesh include supporting inclusive media reform, establishing national safety mechanisms for journalists, and strengthening emerging independent media through funding, capacity building, and strategic partnerships. DU VC for establishing global network to upgrade academic, research activities IMS’ Bangladesh program will operate through three complementary tracks and engage stakeholders across civil society, government and the media sector. The Danish Institute for Human Rights will build on its experience in peer support for National Human Rights Institutions and convening and collaborating with a broad range of human rights actors. The Danish Institute for Human Rights will support the reform of Bangladesh’s National Human Rights Commission, into a strong and independent national human rights institution that can act as a watchdog, an ally of human rights defenders, and as an adviser to the future government of Bangladesh, and collaborate with civil society organizations, human rights defenders, academic and public authorities to embed human rights in the ongoing reforms.  

Bangladesh on Sunday (9th November 2025) described the recent comments made by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus as ‘incorrect’ and ‘not respectful of propriety and diplomatic nicety’ and stressed that Bangladesh remains committed to a mutually beneficial relationship with India. "We consider that Singh's comments are incorrect and unhelpful and not respectful of propriety and diplomatic nicety," said spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs SM Mahbubul Alam as UNB sought Dhaka's reaction to Singh's remarks. In an exclusive conversation with Network18 Group Editor-in-Chief Rahul Joshi, Indian Minister Singh had urged Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus to ‘watch his words’. "We do not seek tense relations with Bangladesh, but Yunus should be cautious with his statements," Singh told Joshi. Read more: India wants free, fair and inclusive election in Bangladesh: Misri The interview was published on Friday (7th November 2025) in a report by Firstpost, a media outlet of the group. Responding to the issue, Alam said the recent remarks made by the Indian Defence Minister regarding Chief Adviser Prof Yunus have come to their attention. He reaffirmed that Bangladesh remains committed to a mutually beneficial relationship with India based on ‘sovereign equality, non-interference in each other's affairs, and mutual respect.’ "Bangladesh also believes that differences in perspectives are best addressed through constructive and respectful engagement," Alam added. During the interview, the Indian Defence Minister also said India does not want a rift with Bangladesh. Read more: Why India’s passport is slipping in global rankings

Speakers at a seminar on Sunday highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between Bangladesh and South Korea in advanced manufacturing and infrastructure projects in a changing global environment. They talked about roads, ports and power sector projects, strengthening collaboration in digital transformation, and increasing opportunities for people-to-people exchange. The Embassy of Korea in Bangladesh hosted the Korea–Bangladesh policy seminar titled, ‘Navigating Geopolitical Dynamics: Toward a Korea–Bangladesh Future Partnership’, in Dhaka. The event brought together policy experts, academics, development partners and private-sector representatives to discuss how the two countries can strengthen cooperation in a changing global environment. Moderated by Ambassador Farooq Sobhan, the seminar examined key geopolitical trends and opportunities to deepen economic ties. Speakers included Ambassador Humayun Kabir, Ambassador Mustafizur Rahman, Prof Dr Parves Karim Abbasi, and Dr Selim Raihan from Bangladesh, as well as Dr Song Kyungjin, Dr Lee Soon-cheul and Dr Song Chi-ung from Korea. Ambassador Park Young-sik emphasized Korea’s long-standing support for Bangladesh’s development and the importance of preparing for the next phase of partnership. “Korea has a unique development experience, having transformed from an aid recipient to a donor country. Just as our cooperation in the RMG sector contributed to Bangladesh’s economic growth, Korea will continue to expand collaboration across trade, investment, and other key areas,” he said. The Ambassador said the ongoing CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations, which will serve as the framework for our future economic partnership, will be an important milestone in advancing Bangladesh-Korea relations. Participants noted that the two sessions—covering both geopolitical and economic perspectives—highlighted the steady growth of Korea–Bangladesh relations over the past 50 years.

Greater Chinese chapter of BNP organised a discussion meeting on the occasion of historic ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’ in Guangzhou of China on Friday (local time). Chaired by China BNP leader Mohammad Sakawat Hossain Kanon the event was moderated by Asif Haque Rupur. BNP leaders Sheikh Mahbubur Rashid, Wali Ullah Wali, Hasmat Ali Mridha James, SM Al-Amin, Salauddin Rikta, and SA Shaheen Malik addressed the event. Emphasising the significance of November 7, Kanon said, “Without November 7, we might not have had the chance to honour the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, nor the birth of BNP. The spirit of the day remains crucial and meaningful for BNP.” Over a hundred Bangladeshis residing in China attended the meeting.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Sunday (9th November 2025) said one of the major accomplishments of their foreign policy over the past 15 months has been establishing strong relations with the US agricultural economy and the farm lobby. "The interim government has laid the foundation for this promising new chapter in Bangladesh-US relations," he said. Looking ahead, Alam said, Bangladesh will be able successfully negotiate even greater tariff reductions from the US as the trade gap shrinks. "Our garment exporters already have the capacity to purchase the entirety of US cotton exports. Once we establish ourselves as a key U.S. trading partner, we will have no need to engage costly lobby groups in Washington — we will have the US farm lobby, which has considerable political strength, to advocate for us with US governmental entities," he said. "Japan, China, Southeast Asian nations, and Western European countries have all prospered through robust trade with the United States. Now, we too can follow that path," Alam said in a message shared from his verified Facebook account. Bangladesh eyes Japan’s labour market as demand for 11mn foreign workers looms A few months after Dr Khalilur Rahman was appointed as the High Representative on Rohingya Affairs (and later as National Security Adviser, Chief Adviser) Professor Muhammad Yunus sent him to Washington DC in February to build ties with the new U.S. administration. Dr Khalil, a veteran career diplomat and an eminent economist who spent decades at a senior level at a UN organisation specialising in global trade policy, quickly connected with key figures in the American agricultural sector, he said. Alam said Bangladesh is a major importer of agricultural products, while the US is one of the world’s largest exporters of soybeans, wheat, cotton, and corn. "Access to US agricultural market is potentially a crucial aspect of our food security, which is one of our key national security concerns," he said. It also would allow us to diversify food import sources and thereby to avoid potential situations where certain sourcing countries might weaponise our food dependence on them. Ambassador Mushfiqul promotes Bangladesh-Mexico trade ties at Querétaro Dr Khalil helped strengthen the bridge between Bangladeshi importers and the US farm lobby — a relationship that played a crucial role in our successful recent tariff negotiations with Washington. "Besides, his successful efforts as our lead negotiator contributed to securing competitive tariff rates that have effectively safeguarded Bangladesh’s garment industry," Alam said. Earlier this week, Bangladeshi importers pledged to purchase over one billion dollars’ worth of US farm products — a "win-win outcome" for both countries and a milestone in Bangladesh-US relations, said the Press Secretary. With China sourcing most of its soybeans from Brazil, Bangladesh can, in a meaningful way, help fill the gap left by Chinese importers, he said. This growing agricultural trade partnership, Alam said, is now taking center stage in the two nations’ diplomatic engagement, a vision championed by the interim government. Read more: Bangladesh firms ink $1.25b deal to expand US soy imports

Newly appointed Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi has said they are committed to advancing connectivity, economic integration and sustainable development for the prosperity of the peoples as members of BIMSTEC, especially under Bangladesh's chairmanship from 2025-2027. “As an Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh, I am committed to promoting economic cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for both nations,” she said in a recent message addressed to the people of Bangladesh. The envoy laid emphasis on fostering stronger people-to- people exchanges and mutual understanding between the two countries. “I look forward to the continued friendship, goodwill, and cooperation with our Bangladeshi partners in these endeavors,” she said. The Ambassador said Bangladesh has long been a ‘strategic country and growing importance’ for Thailand. Geographically, she said, the two countries share an essential connection, linking South and Southeast Asia through the Bay of Bengal and serving as gateways to wider regional connectivity. Economically, the Ambassador said, Bangladesh has become one of Thailand's key partners in South Asia, with bilateral trade expanding steadily in recent years. Culturally, Chirasawadi said, both nations share deep values rooted in community, hospitality and resilience, providing a strong foundation for deepening mutual understanding. “It is my great honour to return to South Asia once again, a region to which I have long felt a profound connection,” said the Ambassador. Chirasawadi said her first diplomatic posting in this region from 2000 to 2001 gave her the appreciation of the richness of South Asian culture, the warmth of its people, and the shared values that bind our societies. The Ambassador said she is privileged to serve in Bangladesh-an emerging economy with a proud history, dynamic growth, and a strong national identity.  

Pakistan Navy ship ‘PNS Saif’ (FFG-253) arrived at Chittagong Port on Saturday (8th November 2025) on a four-day goodwill visit to Bangladesh, as both countries seem to rebuild ties after decades of cold relations. Chief Staff Officer of Commander Chattogram Naval Area received the vessel on behalf of the Commander, Chattogram Naval Area. A well-decorated naval band of the Bangladesh Navy performed ceremonial tunes in keeping with naval tradition. Officials from the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka and senior officers of the Bangladesh Navy were also present to welcome the visiting ship and its team. Dhaka eyes new horizons in partnership with Kathmandu Earlier, upon entering Bangladesh’s maritime boundary, the ship was welcomed at sea by Bangladesh Navy ship BNS Shadhinota. During the visit, the commanding officer of ‘PNS Saif’ and other members of the delegation are scheduled to pay courtesy calls on Commander Chattogram Naval Area, Commander BN Fleet, and Area Superintendent Dockyard. Officers, sailors, and trainees from the visiting ship will also visit various historic and tourist sites, naval ships and establishments in Chattogram. In turn, officers and sailors of the Bangladesh Navy will visit PNS Saif. The ship is scheduled to depart Bangladesh on November 12, 2025. Read more: Pakistan keen to deepen cooperation with Bangladesh: Visiting CJCSC

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan has stressed the need for establishing a network and partnership with different academic and research institutions across the world to upgrade academic and research activities. The issues were discussed when non-resident Ambassador of Ireland to Bangladesh Kevin Kelly and first Police Ombudsman in Northern Ireland Baroness Nuala O’Loan called on the Vice-Chancellor at the latter’s university office on Thursday afternoon. Chairman of the Department of Botany Prof Dr Ashfaque Ahmed, Prof Dr Mohammad Zashim Uddin, Prof Dr Mohammad Almujadde Alfasane and Prof Dr Muhammad Mezbah-ul-Islam were, among others, present on this occasion. During the meeting they discussed matters of mutual interests, especially the possibilities of undertaking joint collaborative academic and research programs among Dhaka University and different universities in Ireland. Universities must strengthen evidence-based research: Dr. Sayedur Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan apprised the guests of the brief history of Dhaka University and its academic and research activities. He also thanked the guests for their visit to Dhaka University and keen interest in its academic and research activities. Later, Baroness Nuala O’Loan delivered a public lecture on the Irish experience of justice and reform at the Department of Botany of DU. DU Treasurer Prof Dr M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury also addressed it. The Embassy of Ireland organised the event.