Foreign-Affairs
Dhaka wants to take ties with Kathmandu to new height: Shahriar
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam has said Bangladesh is committed to continuing its partnership with Nepal and will work to take it to a new height in the coming years.
"We happily look back at the last fifty years of relationship," he said, adding that the two countries can work together to face the challenges of graduation from the group of the least developed countries (LDCs).
The state minister was addressing a reception hosted by Charge d'Affaires at the Nepalese Embassy in Dhaka Kumar Rai at a city hotel Friday, marking the 50 years of diplomatic ties.
Read: Dhaka renews call to Washington to lift Rab sanctions
Bangladesh and Nepal established diplomatic relations on April 8, 1972.
Shahriar said Nepal is one of the first few countries to recognise Bangladesh as a sovereign country and Bangladesh recognised 11 eminent personalities of Nepal including the incumbent foreign minister of Nepal as "Friends of Bangladesh" for their contribution to the country's cause in 1971.
He noted that Bangladesh has been maintaining friendly relations with its neighbours guided by the philosophy of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The state minister expressed satisfaction with the recent growth of trade between Bangladesh and Nepal and called for concluding a preferential trade agreement to reap the untapped potential.
Dhaka renews call to Washington to lift Rab sanctions
Bangladesh has urged the United States to consider a temporary waiver for Rab as an institution as sanctions on the elite force might undermine Dhaka's efforts to combat terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crime.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen raised the issue of sanctions on Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) during his meeting with US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman at the State Department on Thursday.
They talked about the pending legal procedure of delisting of the organization and individuals as well as remedial measures that have been undertaken by the government of Bangladesh.
In response to queries from the US side, Masud elaborated on the context of the enactment of the Digital Security Act (DSA) to combat cybercrimes including those aimed at undermining religious harmony and victimizing women and children.
Also read:Dhaka, Washington discuss ways to promote security in Indo-Pacific
He informed that the government is working with the EU to reassess the law and identify possible loopholes.
On labour issue, in response of US queries, he explained that the government has all intentions to improve the labour situation as per the roadmaps undertaken with the ILO and the EU, and proposed that the US can also join.
The FS emphasized that not everything can be implemented overnight, but gradual improvement is ongoing, giving example of recent ratifications of Bangladesh of relevant ILO conventions on Forced and Child labour.
Deputy Secretary Sherman appreciated Bangladesh Government’s willingness to address these issues, while also stressing upon early implementation of the reform process specially regarding trade union rights in private sectors.
She also discussed on the democratic process in Bangladesh and on the possibility of Bangladesh’s participation in the next Democracy Summit, according to a message received here from Washington.
On this, the foreign secretary informed her progresses like the enactment of the law on the formation of the Election Commission, and also about the recently concluded country-wide elections of Union Parishads.
Two sides also discussed the situation in Ukraine and its global implications, on the Indo-Pacific Strategy, and on security sector cooperation.
US deputy secretary of state underscored the importance of international rule-based order in the maritime domain, and both sides agreed that further works can be done together in the area of harnessing blue economy.
Masud also discussed the possibility of highest-level visit on the occasion of the 50th year of diplomatic relations, and also on the issue of deportation of the self-confessed killer of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur- Rashed Chowdhury- from the US.
The deputy secretary of state appreciated Bangladesh for 6% growth during pandemic situation, robust role in UN peacekeeping, climate change actions and in the Rohingya crisis.
Masud thanked US for providing 61 million vaccines, and elaborated on the Government’s measures to strike balance between life and livelihood during the pandemic.
He also met Julieta Valls Noyes, US Assistant Secretary of State, of the Bureau of Population, Refugee and Migration (PRM) of the Department of State, and discussed on the Rohingya issue.
Assistant Secretary Julieta Noyes is scheduled to visit Bangladesh soon.
She stated that the US really recognizes the generosity of Bangladesh of keeping the forcibly displaced Rohingyas for so long.
Julieta Noyes agreed with Masud that without creating hope of repatriation, the displaced Rohingya population in Bangladesh pose major risks of radicalization and transnational crimes.
Bangladesh foreign secretary underscored that return of the displaced Rohingyas is the best solution.
US Assistant Secretary expressed her country’s willingness to remain deeply engaged, and emphasized on the need for education, livelihood etc. of the displaced Rohingyas.
Foreign Secretary stated that the US should participate in the humanitarian works in Bhasan Char and the Congressional embargo should be lifted.
Assistant Secretary Julieta informed that her upcoming visit is part of the US’s reassessment process in this regard. Foreign Secretary Masud and Assistant Secretary Julieta discussed in details the constraints and challenges of repatriation, and also on possible ways and means.
Also read:Autism Awareness: Momen reiterates Dhaka’s commitment
Masud also met Senior Director of the National Security Council (NSC) of the White House Sumona Guha over a lunch meeting.
During the discussion, two sides agreed that the meeting held this week in Washington DC by the Foreign Minister and the Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh are indeed created new impetus in the bilateral ties, and emphasized on the importance of regular engagements.
Masud underscored that visit at highest level may be agreed upon on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations.
He also discussed the sanctions on RAB and related individuals, and proposed whether the sanctions on RAB can be partially lifted.
They also touched upon the global impact of Ukraine situation, and also on the Rohingya crisis.
They also discussed the Digital Security Act, and Bangladesh’s effort to reexamine the law. Senior Director Guha appreciated Bangladesh’s willingness to engage with the US on human rights issues.
Bangladesh foreign secretary also raised the issue of the return of the self- confessed killer of the Father of the Nation from the US.
Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton wears garment made in Bangladesh
The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been recently seen wearing a G-Star pant made by MBM, a Bangladeshi garment factory.
BGMEA feels proud to see apparels made in Bangladesh are reaching the highest levels of fashion society.
Also read:BGMEA for inclusion of more transgender people into mainstream economy
Late Mahmudur Rahman founded the MBM Group and is regarded as one of pioneers in the garment industry of Bangladesh.
The Group is now led by Wasim Rahman as its managing director.
Bangladesh has secured a trusted and strong position as a prestigious brand among tens of millions of people in more than 160 countries for garments ‘Made in Bangladesh‘.
Years of hard works, dedication, commitment of workers and entrepreneurs and continuous strive for excellence have made Bangladesh the second largest readymade garments exporter in the world.
Garments made in Bangladesh with care and quality have earned the confidence of tens of millions of people all over the world.
The tag ’Made in Bangladesh’ has become synonymous with world-class quality that can be trusted without doubt.
The trust has been built upon the committed efforts and achievements made by the industry especially in the areas of safety, sustainability and social compliance, which have earned the sector global recognitions.
Bangladesh garment industry has also made exemplary strides in environmental sustainability, making the country a home to the highest number of green garment factories in the world.
Alongside the strides in safety and sustainability, the industry is also increasingly focusing on diversifying its products and building capacities to meet the demands of global brands and buyers.
Also read: Apparel industry committed to sustaining momentum of workplace safety: BGMEA
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan said, “We are proud of our garment industry which has not only made an immense contribution to the socio-economic transformation of Bangladesh, lifting millions of people from the abyss of poverty, empowering women, paving way for girls' education, but also brought glory for the country by making a prestigious brand in the world.”
“Bangladesh would continue its efforts to remain to be a preferred choice of global apparel brands as a safe, ethical and sustainable sourcing destination,” he added.
Dhaka, Washington discuss ways to promote security in Indo-Pacific
Bangladesh and the United States have discussed steps to promote security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman had a meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen on Thursday and discussed bilateral economic, commercial and security collaboration, according to a message received in Dhaka.
Also read:No need for volunteers from Bangladesh to join Russian special military operation: Embassy
Deputy Secretary Sherman emphasized the importance of protecting human rights, the rule of law, and freedom of expression, said US Department of State Spokesperson Ned Price on Friday.
Bangladesh and the United States celebrated the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-US relations on April 4.
"Pleased to meet with Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen at the State Department to enhance our collaboration on bilateral and regional issues as we mark the 50th anniversary of the U.S.-Bangladesh relations," Sherman tweeted after the meeting.
Also read:Rohingya Repatriation: FM seeks US lawmakers’ role
Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen and his US counterpart Antony Blinken had a bilateral meeting at the US Department of State on April 4.
Autism Awareness: Momen reiterates Dhaka’s commitment
Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to ensuring that over 75 million autistic people in the world can make the most of their talents and participate fully in the societies.
Momen was delivering his opening remarks at a virtual event on World Autism Awareness Day 2022 organized by the Permanent Missions of Bangladesh and the State of Qatar to the United Nations in New York, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and Autism Speaks on Thursday.
Also read:No need for volunteers from Bangladesh to join Russian special military operation: Embassy
He shared good practices from Bangladesh in supporting children with autism and their families during the pandemic, including through targeted support measures and use of ICTs.
In this context, he said during Covid-19, the children with autism and their families suffered disproportionately due to disruptions in their education and therapeutic services.
However, the existing social support system, strong ICT infrastructure and robust community-based health services in Bangladesh helped many families cope up with the challenges.
Referring to the increased awareness on autism in Bangladesh, the foreign minister said various stakeholders, ministries and departments have worked together to mitigate the challenges and stigma faced by the persons with autism.
He mentioned various initiatives undertaken by the current government such as ‘Rights and Protection of Persons with Disabilities Act 2013’ and ‘Neuro-development Trust Act 2013’, etc.
“Our government has been promoting a ‘culture of innovation’ to take advantage of the assistive tools and technologies. Digital Bangladesh initiative has opened a new era in extending disability inclusive e-service, webs and other ICT-based services”, the Foreign Minister added.
No need for volunteers from Bangladesh to join Russian special military operation: Embassy
Russian Embassy in Dhaka on Thursday said there is no need for volunteers from Bangladesh to join the special military operation, noting that the operation is going according to the plan.
The Embassy of Russia in Bangladesh has been receiving numerous letters from the Bangladeshi citizens who express their willingness to contribute on an "unpaid basis" to the "liberation movement" in Ukraine and Donbas.
"We appreciate this noble urge of the Bangladeshi people. However, the special military operation is going according to the plan, with the Russian Armed Forces successfully achieving set goals and objectives," said the Embassy.
Also read: Bangladesh to supply potato to Russia, says Russian Embassy
With the aim to help friendly Donetsk People's Republic and Lugansk People's Republic, as well as to protect the Russian-speaking population of Ukraine, on February 24, 2022 Moscow launched the "special military operation".
On March 11, Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, approved the initiative proposed by Sergey Shoigu, Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, to assist foreign volunteers who wish to join the operation on the Russian side to move to the combat zone, said the Russian Embassy.
Also read: Don’t get trapped by traffickers, warns Embassy after deaths in Italy
Rohingya Repatriation: FM seeks US lawmakers’ role
Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has requested the US lawmakers to persuade Myanmar in all possible ways to create a safe environment in Rakhine State and take back all the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, temporarily staying in Bangladesh, to their homeland.
Foreign Minister Momen held meetings with Senator Jon Ossoff (Democrat-Georgia); and Congressman Ami Bera (Democrat-California), the Chairman of the House, Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation.
The meetings were held on Wednesday in Washington D.C at the respective offices of the Senator and the Congressman at the US Capital.
US keen to enhance security cooperation with Bangladesh
Bangladesh and the United States had a "fruitful discussion" on Indo-Pacific Strategy and Bangladesh expressed support to inclusive socio-economic development in the Indo-Pacific region.
At the 8th Security Dialogue held between the two countries at US Department of State on Wednesday, the two sides had "constructive discussions" on defence agreements like GSOMIA and ACSA as the US is keen to enhance security cooperation with Bangladesh.
General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) and Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) are "essential" to enabling a closer defence relationship, expanding opportunities for defence trade, information sharing, and military-to-military cooperation between two countries.
Bangladesh side raised deep concern regarding the sanctions on RAB and individuals, and urged the US side to reconsider the decision, according to a message received from Washington.
Also read:Bangladesh-US security dialogue held in Washington
Bangladesh side highlighted Rab's pivotal role in the fight against terrorism, violent extremism and transnational crimes; and also elaborated on how the sanctions on Rab is unjustified as the personnel do not enjoy any impunity. The two sides agreed to continue discussion.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Denise Jenkins led respective delegations.
Bangladesh was also represented by the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Secretary of Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief Md Kamrul Hasan, Secretary of Law and Justice Division, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Md. Golam Sarwar; and representatives from Prime Minister’s Office, Public Security Division, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Ministry of Defence, Bangladesh Police, Border Guard Bangladesh and Bangladesh Coast Guard.
US Side was represented by, among others, Assistant Secretary Jessica Lewis and Deputy Assistant Secretary Kelley Keiderling.
Foreign Secretary Masud and Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman also held a separate meeting with the Under Secretary.
Masud said Bangladesh deeply values its partnership with the US.
The US delegation appreciated strong ties with Bangladesh, which is well reflected in the regular dialogues between two sides, as they opined.
The day-long meeting covered areas like UN Peacekeeping, Bangladesh US Security Cooperation including cooperation in military training, maritime security, proposed defence agreements, defence purchase and capacity development etc, regional issues like Rohingya, Indo-Pacific, and counterterrorism and civilian security cooperation.
The US side praised Bangladesh’s successes and leadership in UN Peacekeeping Operations.
They also expressed willingness to assist Bangladesh in the modernization and institutional development of its armed forces.
Also read:Will be happy if sanctions on Rab withdrawn: FM
On Rohingya issue, the US highly praised Bangladesh’s role, and gave ‘a big thank you’; and committed to continue all possible support.
Bangladesh appreciated the determination by the US of the genocide against Rohingyas, and urged the US side to take follow up measures.
The US delegation observed that after 50 years of the independence, Bangladesh has merged as a responsible country and taking part in resolving global crises and problems.
Two sides agreed to continue robust cooperation in counterterrorism and transnational crimes.
The US also assured about its continued support in building law enforcement and prosecutorial capacity as well as in countering violent extremism.
Two sides also discussed on cooperation in aviation safety, with the view to early resumption of Dhaka New York direct flight.
Bangladesh appreciated the robust support received from the US in terms of COVID-19 vaccines.
Two sides agreed to maintain regular contact and to continue the discussion on various issues. The next Security Dialogue would be held next year in Dhaka.
Bangladesh-US security dialogue held in Washington
Bangladesh and the United States (US) on Wednesday held the 8th "Security Dialogue" and discussed issues of mutual interests in a broader security sphere.
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen led the Bangladesh delegation while Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Denise Jenkins led the US delegation at the dialogue that began at 9am (Washington DC time) Wednesday.
It continued till 4pm (Washington DC time).
For the first time, a foreign secretary-level security dialogue between the two countries was held instead of a DG-level.
During US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland's recent Bangladesh visit, the US shared a draft on the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) which is seen as a "gateway" to do more on the security front.
"We're very confident that we'll be able to get the issue settled so that we can do more on the security side together," she told reporters during a joint media briefing in Dhaka.
The US is pushing to conclude certain foundational defence agreements – GSOMIA and Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA), which are "essential" to enabling a closer defence relationship, expanding opportunities for defence trade, information sharing, and military-to-military cooperation between two countries.
Bangladesh says it is still examining the proposals.
For 50 years, the US and Bangladesh have enjoyed cordial diplomatic ties and partnered on a wide range of security issues, including border security, maritime security, counterterrorism, peacekeeping, defence trade, and defence institution building, according to the US Department of State.
The US engages Bangladesh through several bilateral and multilateral fora.
The two governments continue to work together to advance a shared vision of a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and secure Indo-Pacific.
Since 2015, the US has provided $66.9 million in foreign military financing (FMF) and $7.29 million in international military education and training (IMET) assistance to Bangladesh.
FMF assistance includes $10 million in bilateral programming and $56.9 million in Bay of Bengal Initiative Regional FMF.
The US Department of State's Bay of Bengal Initiative, through support provided via FMF, seeks to enhance the capacity of civilian and military actors to detect illicit activity within their borders and in the region.
Also, it aims to build networks and habits of cooperation to enable countries to share information, develop their capacity to respond promptly to illicit activity, and support our partners in enabling a rules-based order in the Indian Ocean.
Yemen Conflict: Bangladesh welcomes ceasefire
Bangladesh has welcomed the UN brokered two-month long ceasefire between the parties of the Yemen conflict which came into effect from April 2 at the advent of Holy month of Ramadan.
Bangladesh also appreciated the efforts of the Joint Forces Command of the Arab coalition to support legitimacy in Yemen and appreciated the efforts of all the parties in Yemen for agreeing to this ceasefire.
Also read: Yemen rebels strike oil depot in Saudi city hosting F1 race
“Bangladesh hopes that the stakeholders will take this opportunity to continue the political process to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the conflict in Yemen,” said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.
Bangladesh also noted the recent initiative by the Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf for urging all stakeholders to enter into dialogue and for promoting Yemeni-Yemeni consultations for reaching a lasting and sustainable solution to the crisis.
“Bangladesh remains committed to supporting all efforts for maintenance of peace and stability in the region,” MoFA said.