foreign-affairs
EU's Global Gateway Strategy to support Bangladesh in meeting its green energy transition ambitions: Peteris Ustubs
European Union (EU) Director for Middle East, Asia, and Pacific at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (INTPA) Peteris Ustubs has said the Global Gateway Strategy will support Bangladesh in meeting its green energy transition ambitions in a sustainable and smart way .
"It is the European Union’s response to boost cooperation with partners worldwide. We believe it marks a new era of the longstanding EU-Bangladesh cooperation. This comes at a timely moment, as Bangladesh sets the ground for its LDC graduation in 2026,”he said.
Ustubs visited Bangladesh from September 30 to October 2 to discuss further strengthening EU-Bangladesh cooperation on the green energy transition.
In the context of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, his visit focused on strengthening the partnership between the European Union and Bangladesh, particularly in the domains of climate change, energy efficiency, renewable energy, regional energy connectivity, and sustainable development.
Read: In Egypt, host of COP27, a small step toward green energy
Guterres remembers Mahatma Gandhi; values of mutual respect, justice, power of peaceful action
Marking the International Day of Non-Violence, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday said they commemorate not only the birth of Mahatma Gandhi but also the timeless values he championed: mutual respect and understanding, justice, and the power of peaceful action.
"Let us heed his words today and re-commit ourselves to this essential purpose," he said in a message on the International Day of Non-Violence.
Guterres said the world confronts grave challenges: growing inequalities, rising tensions, proliferating conflicts, and worsening climate chaos.
"We also see divides deepening within countries – with democracy under threat and hate speech and intolerance on the march," he said.
Guterres said they can overcome these afflictions and chart a course towards a brighter, more peaceful future.
Read: Gandhi’s philosophy of truth, humanism, non-violence underscored
"If we understand – as Gandhi did – that the magnificent diversity of our human family is a treasure, not a threat.
If we invest in social cohesion, nurture the courage to compromise, and the determination to cooperate.
If we ensure that all of us – regardless of status, background, circumstance, or faith – can live lives of dignity, opportunity, and rights.
If we unite around our common humanity," said the UN chief.
He also said, "Let us remember Gandhi’s wise counsel: “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”
Read more: Gandhi’s ideals of peace, non-violence policy recalled
‘Boycotting election isn’t good for anyone’: Info minister tells Japanese ambassador
In a meeting with the Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori, Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud said continuously boycotting elections is not good for any party.
He said this while talking to reporters after meeting the ambassador at the ministry’s office on Sunday.
“The topic of the upcoming election was raised during our discussion. I made it clear that the next election will uphold the principles of being free, fair, and transparent; the Election Commission is responsible for it,” he said.
No reason to be delighted over US visa policy: Information Minister
He mentioned the issue of boycotting elections and said, “I stressed the point that boycotting elections is never beneficial for any party. Simultaneously, we delved into preventing political violence in the country, reminiscent of incidents in 2013-14-15, which the BNP has been attempting intermittently.”
Conspiracy can’t foil next elections: Hasan Mahmud
In our discussion, I assured him that the election would be fair and free, said Hasan, adding that it would involve the active participation of the people and various political parties.
Regarding Japan-Bangladesh relations, the minister said, “I thanked the Japanese ambassador for Japan's consistent economic and infrastructural support over the last 52 years. Our conversation also touched upon the prospect of closer collaboration for the future development of the country.”
Japan wants to increase investment in Bangladesh: Japanese envoy told FBCCI
No discussion held on visa policy with US Assistant Secretary Bitter: Acting FS
Acting Foreign Secretary Rear Admiral (Retd.) Md. Khurshed Alam on Sunday said the US side did not raise anything related to the recently announced US visa policy.
"I can unequivocally tell you that they did not initiate any discussion about the visa policy," he told reporters after his meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter.
He said the visit was part of regular engagement and she did not come for discussing any specific issue.
They discussed issues of mutual interest regarding consular issues, said the acting Foreign Secretary.
Asked how the visa policy will be applied, he said it is up to the US side and the government does not show any interest to know it. "You (media) might have that enthusiasm."
The acting Foreign Secretary, however, raised the issue of delay in getting visas by Bangladeshi students and Bangladesh-origin people who work in international organizations.
Bangladesh-origin Hindus in UK laud PM Hasina's exemplary steps to establish secular, democratic Bangladesh
Leaders of the Bangladesh Hindu Association, representing Bangladesh-origin Hindus in the UK, have praised Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visionary leadership for the remarkable economic development as well as her exemplary steps to establish a secular and oppression-free democratic Bangladesh.
They called on Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen in London on Saturday (September 30, 2023), said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday (October 01, 2023).
The Association raised their concerns over the welfare of their fellow members and relatives in Bangladesh during the Durga Puja and upcoming election.
The Foreign Minister assured them that strict precautionary measures and necessary steps would be taken during the Durga Puja and upcoming election to protect the Hindus.
Dr Momen emphasized the Bangladesh government’s commitment to ensure religious peace, harmony, and security.
Read: ‘Battle is between secular and non-secular forces, which one does UK choose?’: Bangladesh High Commissioner
The Bangladesh Hindu Association thanked and appreciated the Foreign Minister for his support and commitments to safeguard the values of the Hindus and other religious communities.
Foreign Minister Dr Momen also praised their role in connecting Bangladeshi-origin Hindus with the UK and urged them to represent Bangladesh’s religious harmonies as well as the nation's achievements.
The Hindu association handed over a petition to the Foreign Minister to ensure the protection and safety of their relatives. Mr. Proshanta Datta Purokayastha, BEM, Chairman of the association, led the group.
Read: British MPs, diplomats express solidarity with Bangabandhu’s secular, progressive values
Rabin Paul, Vice Chairman, Haradhan Bhowmik, Vice Chairman, Prasanta Kumar Dutta, Vice Chairman, Sujith Chowdhury, General Secretary, Biswajit Dey, Treasurer, Kankan Kanti Ghosh, Joint Treasurer, Bappy Dam, Women Organizing Secretary, Arjun Kumar Datta, Deputy Organizing Secretary, Sushanta Kumar Halder, Entertainment Secretary, and Dr Debabrata Chowdhury, Member, attended the meeting.
Read more: Bangabandhu's killing designed to destroy secular spirit of Liberation War: Speakers
US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter in Dhaka
US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter is now in Bangladesh on a two-day official visit.
She is scheduled to meet with government officials to discuss consular issues.
The official visited Islamabad and Karachi in Pakistan before her arrival in Dhaka.
Read: Another US Assistant Secretary of State due this week
The Assistant Secretary will meet with embassy and consulate staff and observe consular operations, said the US Department of State.
"Her trip underscores our deep and sustained commitment to the protection of US citizens overseas and the facilitation of legitimate travel and immigration to the United States," said the Spokesperson at the US Department of State.
Read more: Bangladesh a model for rest of the world: US Assistant Secretary Noyes
Special burn unit to be set up in Thimphu
In a remarkable display of medical cooperation and humanitarianism, Bangladesh and Bhutan are forging a deeper bond through a unique healthcare initiative.
The first country to officially recognize Bangladesh, Bhutan has long enjoyed a close diplomatic relationship with its neighbour, and now, the two nations are expanding their collaboration in the health sector, according to an official press release.
As a testament to this growing partnership, 'Bangabandhu International Plastic Surgery Camp' is currently underway in Thimphu, Bhutan, coinciding with the 77th birth anniversary of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, it said.
A team of 12 doctors from the Sheikh Hasina Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, led by Dr Samanta Lal Sen, is conducting a special surgery camp at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. These dedicated Bangladeshi doctors are performing complex operations related to burn injuries and plastic surgery, providing vital humanitarian services to the people of Bhutan, the release said.
Prime Minister Hasina, in recent discussions with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and prime minister, reaffirmed her commitment to expanding cooperation in the health sector. This surgical camp is a tangible demonstration of that commitment, aiming to improve healthcare services in Bhutan and eventually establish a burn unit in Thimphu.
King Wangchuck expressed his deep gratitude to PM Hasina and her government for their unwavering support. He warmly welcomed this act of humanitarian cooperation and hoped it would lead to further milestones in the bilateral relationship, focusing on the welfare of both nations.
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Thimphu played a pivotal role in organizing the event, hosting a special program on September 28 to celebrate the prime minister's birthday. Speaker of the National Assembly of Bhutan, Namgyel Wangchuck, attended as the chief guest.
During his welcome address, Bangladesh Ambassador Shibnath Roy remarked, "Through this camp, a unique example of healthcare cooperation between Bhutan and Bangladesh has been set, marking a new chapter in our relations."
The camp not only highlights the compassionate nature of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but also underscores her personal initiative to provide healthcare services in Bhutan and establish a burn unit in Thimphu, as stated by Dr. Samanta Lal Sen. Embassy Counsellor Sujan Debnath further highlighted Sheikh Hasina's international contributions, emphasizing the noble initiative's significance.
We are doing our best for Rohingyas: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said although Bangladesh has a large population in a small territory, it has sheltered Rohingyas on humanitarian ground.
"We are discussing with Myanmar over the Rohingya issue and trying to convince them that they (Rohingyas) are their citizens, they should be taken back to their homeland," Prime Minister said in an interview with the Bangla service of Voice of America (VoA) aired on Saturday.
Read: PM Hasina questions logic behind US visa sanction against Bangladesh
Unfortunately, international assistance for Rohingya refugees has been greatly reduced since Covid-19 and the Ukraine-Russia war. "Now we have to carry this burden almost alone. But still, we are helping them in every way," she said responding to a question on the progress of Rohingya repatriation to Myanmar.
“But we want them to go back to their country because children are being born and growing up today. They cannot get a healthy environment in this camp to grow up. Not only that, many of them are getting involved in various crimes, like drug peddling, arms trafficking, human trafficking. They have a future. So the sooner they can return to their land they will be able to lead a better life,” she added.
Read: No way to return to caretaker government, PM Hasina in VoA interview
“Since we have sheltered them, we are fulfilling our responsibility and we are doing our best for them," she said.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged the world community to take a minimum measure so that Rohingyas can go back to their own country. They can lead a life like human beings.
The United Nations or other NGOs or aid organizations who are providing assistance can do that there as well. "As Myanmar is our neighboring country, we are trying to make them understand that you should take your citizens back," PM Hasina added.
The prime minister responded to a number of questions on US Visa sanction, human rights, Khaleda’s treatment abroad, caretaker government, the constitution and other issues.
Read: There are legal complications regarding allowing Khaleda to be taken abroad: Home Minister
When asked about the steps to improve the security situation in Rohingya camps, she said “We are taking all security measures there. Our joint forces patrolling there, the police, the army, other law enforcement agencies, and the border guard are all active there."
“We have significantly improved the Bhasanchar for the Rohingyas. Those who are living there are much better off. They are not facing such problems there. They are being given various training, livelihood arrangements are also being made, schools, medical centers are all there," she said.
Japan provides $1500 million to implement Matarbari coal-fired power plant
The physical progress of the Matarbari coal-fired power plant has reached 78.30 percent, while financial progress is 65.14 percent till August 2023. Japan is providing $1500 million more for the project.
To this effect exchange of notes and ‘loan agreement’ for the 7th tranche of the Matarbari Ultra supercritical coal-fired power project under the 44th Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan package (2nd batch) was signed on Saturday ( September 30) between Bangladesh and Japan.
Sharifa Khan, secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD), Ministry of Finance signed the ‘Exchange of Notes’ and the ‘Loan Agreement’ on behalf of Bangladesh. Iwama Kiminori, the Ambassador of Japan in Bangladesh has signed the ‘Exchange of Notes’ and Ichiguchi Tomohide, Chief Representative, JICA Bangladesh Office, Dhaka signed the ‘Loan Agreement’ on behalf of Japan.
Japan provides 500 million yen for 4th Primary Education Development Programme
The signing ceremony was held at the NEC-2 Conference Room of ERD, Sher-E-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka.
Under this Japanese ODA loan, Japan government will provide 217,556 million Japanese Yen (JPY) or approximately $1,500 million for the project. The rate of interest of this loan will be 1.6 percent for construction, 0.10 percent for consultancy services, a front-end fee (at a time) of 0.2 percent, and a repayment period of 30 years which includes a 10-year grace period.
This project is being implemented to meet growing electricity demand and to improve stable power supply by installing 1200 MW (600MWx2 units) Ultra Super Critical Coal-fired Power Plant at Matarbari, Maheshkhali Upazila of Cox’s Bazar district.
Japan provides critical funding to WFP’s lifesaving food assistance for Rohingyas
The total cost of the project is Tk51,854.88 Crore of which GOB provides Tk6,406.16 crore, JICA Tk43,921.03 crore, and CPGCBL Tk1,527.69 crore. The project implementation period is from July 2014 to December 2026.
Japan is the single largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh. Japan has been providing continuous support for the socio-economic development of Bangladesh since its independence.
Japan provides $500,000 to Cyclone-affected Rohingyas, host communities through IOM
The ODA commitment has exceeded USD $30.34 billion till now. Japanese loans and grants are being utilized in a wide range of areas including power, roads, bridges, telecommunication, agriculture, health, education, water supply and sanitation, rural development, environment, human resource development etc. The Japanese assistance contributed significantly to the overall development of the country.
US Ambassador Haas clarifies remarks on visa restrictions amid Editors’ Council’s concern
In response to a letter from Mahfuz Anam, President of the Editors’ Council expressing concern over a recent remark about applying US visa policy on the media in Bangladesh, US Ambassador Peter Haas has reiterated his government’s commitment to staunchly defend press freedom and the “right of journalists and media outlets to exercise their right to freedom of expression.”
“That includes views critical of any government, including the United States. In fact, we welcome public reflection on any element of our policy,” the ambassador said.
Haas raises eyebrows by saying members of media may face visa restrictions
Ambassador Haas said this in response to a letter from Mahfuz Anam, president of the Editors’ Council, Bangladesh, seeking clarification of the ambassador’s remarks during a recent interview with Channel 24 that media may also come under the purview of US visa policy.
'An affront to freedom of press’: Some academics, journalists denounce inclusion of media in US visa restrictions
“We are applying the policy in a balanced way against anyone regardless of whether they are pro government, whether they are in the opposition, or whether they are law enforcement, whether they are in the judiciary, whether it's the media,” said Peter Haas during the interview aired on September 24.
On May 24 this year, the US announced the visa policy for Bangladesh and on September 22, it was declared that steps were taken to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh.
Inclusion of media under US visa restrictions doesn’t seem to be ‘a right choice’: Shahriar Alam
In the letter to Peter Haas on September 27, Mahfuz Anam said he was writing because some questions have arisen in his mind and in the minds of members of the Editors’ Council regarding the aforementioned comment on visa restrictions on media.
“Frankly, this remark has created confusion among us and hence our request for a clarification,” wrote Anam in his email.
He said given the fact that the US government and the ambassador personally have always been steadfast advocates of free and independent media, the remark has perturbed them.
Referring to the US ambassador’s statement that visa restriction “is not based on anything else but their actions,” Anam pointed out that media’s “action” is writing or broadcasting, and asked if visa restriction will be based on what a journalist writes or broadcasts.
US visa restrictions: State Dept spokesperson refrains from mentioning media
“If so, then doesn’t it come under ‘freedom of expression’ and ‘freedom of press’? How will it be used in case of media? What are the factors being considered?” — Anam asked in his letter. Anam also said that the First Amendment of the US Constitution has always acted as a source of inspiration and emulation for him personally and for the media in Bangladesh. In that case, he wondered, how would the First Amendment values be reflected if the visa policy is used against the media.
In response, Peter Haas wrote that the US will continue to support the freedom of the press and also speak out against, and apply US visa policy to those who seek to undermine the democratic election process in Bangladesh.
Referring to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he said the holding of free and fair elections is the responsibility of everyone — voters, political parties, the government, the security forces, civil society, and the media.
“Equally as important, each of these institutions must be allowed to play their respective roles in the democratic election process,” Haas said.
Haas said Secretary Blinken’s statement was clear that the policy applies to “any Bangladeshi individual, believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh.”
This includes anyone who takes measures to prevent the media from disseminating their views, US Ambassador Haas added.