foreign-affairs
First consignment with 45.800 tonnes of Hilsa enters India
The first consignment with 45.800 tonnes of Hilsa entered India through Jashore’s Benapole Landport on Thursday.
A total of 12 trucks carrying Hilsha reached India’s Petrople Landport after completing all legal procedures at the Benapole Customs House.
The exporters are Mahima Enterprise, Tanisha Enterprise, Seven Star Fish Processing Ripa Enterprise and Pacific SeaFood. The Indian importers are SR International Naz Implex Pvt Ltd, Bimol Roy and Barkha Bikash Fish Agencies.
C&F agents Emi Enterprise and Goni & Sons submitted necessary documents for the release of the consignment. The price of each kilogram of Hilsa is set $10.Mahabubur Rahman, officer at Banapole fisheries inspection and quality control office, said the exporters will have to export the Hilsa by October 30.
On Wednesday, the Commerce Ministry allowed the export of 3,950 tonnes of Hilsa to India on the occasion of the Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community.
As per the government decision, 79 exporters were allowed to export Hilsa. They can export 50 tonnes of Hilsa each within October 30, 2023.
Last year, the government allowed exporting 2,900 tonnes of Hilsa but only 1,300 tonnes were exported.
Bangladesh has been exporting Hilsa to India since 2012 on the occasion of the Durga Puja.
US pre-election assessment delegation to arrive in Dhaka on Oct 7
A delegation of the United States-funded International Republican Institute (IRI) and National Democratic Institute (NDI) will visit Bangladesh October 7-13 to conduct a joint pre-election assessment mission (PEAM) in accordance with the NDI's Declaration of Principles for International Observers.
The delegation will visit Bangladesh October 7-13 and will include six delegates plus support staff, US Embassy Spokesperson Bryan Schiller told reporters on Thursday.
It will meet the Bangladesh Election Commission, government agencies, political parties, citizen observers, civil society organizations including women's and youth groups, Bangladesh and international media organizations, and foreign diplomatic missions, he said.
Read: EU won’t send full-fledged election observation team due to ‘budget constraint’: EC secretary
At the conclusion of its visit, the delegation will issue a public statement highlighting positive trends as well as areas of concern and offering practical recommendations.
The team is likely to hold a series of briefings and consultations with relevant international stakeholders, policymakers in Washington, D.C., and constituencies supporting electoral integrity in Bangladesh, said the Spokesperson.
Read more: US to send pre-election assessment and monitoring team in early Oct: Peter Haas
While the primary role of the PEAM is to provide independent and impartial information on election preparation and the electoral context, it will also determine whether to send a limited international election observation mission for election day, he said.
USAID committed to standing with Bangladeshi partners for a "more resilient and prosperous" future, says its Mission Director
USAID Mission Director Reed Aeschliman on Thursday said they are committed to standing with their Bangladeshi partners and working together for a "more resilient and prosperous" future regardless of what challenges they face.
"We are lucky to have great partners in Bangladesh," he said, adding that empowering people enables them to reach their ultimate objective to help Bangladeshis build a more resilient, democratic and prosperous society in which all citizens have an opportunity to thrive.
Reed Aeschliman, who has immense knowledge of the South Asia region, said strengthening democratic principles is a critical cornerstone in maximising economic growth in any country.
"Economic studies show that when it comes to growth, democracy significantly increases development- especially in health and human capital," he said.
The USAID Mission Director said public sector and development partners alone cannot stimulate growth to the scale needed for Bangladesh to become an upper-middle income country.
"This is why private sector engagement and leveraging public-private partnerships are more important than ever," said the US senior official.
He said they continue to face evolving challenges like climate change. "We also need to be inclusive of key segments of Bangladesh’s population- including youth, women and marginalized communities so they can contribute to Bangladesh's economic growth more fully."
Responding to a question, Aeschliman said they want to support the development trajectory of Bangladesh as a good partner. "Sky is the limit."
Asked about election issue, he said they want to see a "free, fair and peaceful" elections in Bangladesh conducted in accordance with the international standard that allow people of Bangladesh to choose their leaders.
"We are focused on the process, not the results," he said, adding that he is committed to strengthening relations with Bangladesh as key strategic partner in major development initiatives including food security, economic growth, climate change, health, democracy, human rights, and governance.
There are three principles that the US instills across all of USAID activities. "The first principle is: be a good partner."
"I’m looking forward to getting to know you all more closely – whether it is at one of ourmany events in Dhaka, or going out to see some of our projects together," Aeschliman said.
He is looking forward to exploring as many places in Bangladesh as possible.
"In fact, I will be making my first trip to Cox’s Bazar very soon to see USAID’s work and investments in the Southeast of the country," said the USAID Mission Director.
"I’ll have a chance to see the incredible results from our partnershipwith the host communities in Cox’s Bazar as well as our Rohingya response. I’m also excited to see the world’s longest sea beach and try some of the delicious seafood that Cox’s is well known for," he said.
Aeschliman said he looks forward to continuing their work together between USAID and the American people, and the people of Bangladesh to build a brighter and more prosperous future.
Bangladesh, Thailand discuss ongoing infrastructure projects in Bangladesh
Bangladesh and Thailand at a discussion shed light on the successful Metrorail operation from Uttara to Agargaon.
They are working in full swing to implement the next section up to Kamlapur by December in 2024.
A constructive courtesy meeting took place between the Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Kingdom of Thailand Mohammed Abdul Hye, and Acting President of Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited (ITD) Thoranis Karnasuta on Wednesday, delving into ongoing infrastructure projects in Bangladesh.
Also read: Thailand provides assistance to support WFP’s food aid for Rohingyas in Bangladesh
The discussion emphasized collaborative efforts and future engagements in enhancing the nation's infrastructure landscape.
The focus of the meeting was the Dhaka Elevated Expressway, a critical infrastructure project that has recently reached a partial conclusion. Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, through its subsidiary First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Company Limited, has played an instrumental role in driving this endeavor.
The project represents a significant milestone and underlines the commitment of ITD as the private partner with a 51 percent share in the PPP project.
Also read: BIMSTEC Summit: High-profile Bangladesh business delegation to visit Thailand in November
The Ambassador assured full support and cooperation from the Bangladesh government to foster an environment conducive to a fruitful collaboration.
This shared commitment aims to contribute to the sustainable growth and development of Bangladesh through strategic and impactful infrastructure projects.
Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited remains dedicated to actively participating in Bangladesh's infrastructure development endeavors and is eager to continue contributing to the nation's progress through meaningful projects and partnerships.
Also read: Thailand eyes deeper ties with Bangladesh: Thai Envoy
During the meeting, among others, on behalf of the Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited Wichien Roongrujirat, Co-Project Director, The High-Speed Rail Linking Three Airport Project of ITD and Mr. Sakchai Puetpaiboon, Executive Vice President and on the side of Bangladesh Embassy of Bangkok, Syed Rashedul Hossen, Economic Minister and Md. Masumur Rahaman, Counsellor and Head of Chancery were present.
US prepared to extend support for ‘free, fair, peaceful’ election in Bangladesh: Peter Haas
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas has said that they are prepared to extend support to the declared goal of a “free, fair and peaceful” election in Bangladesh.
He said USA’s goal is not to interfere in the election but to support the goal that allows people to freely choose who they want to run the country.
“We speak out frequently in support of the goal,” said Ambassador Haas.
Also read: UNHCR welcomes S Korea’s contribution of USD 1 million for Rohingyas in Bangladesh
The US ambassador also said it is the collective responsibility of the entire world to make sure that conditions are in place in Myanmar so that the Rohingyas can return to their homeland with dignity.
“They need to be protected, educated, and they need to enjoy dignity where they are living,” he said while attending an event as a keynote speaker.
The US ambassador said the Rohingyas should not be punished for the action taken by Myanmar and they should be treated well without any discrimination towards them.
Ambassador Haas laid emphasis on constant collective pressure on Myanmar, noting that the solution to the crisis unfortunately is not so easy.
He said they are also exploring the option of resettlement, but it offers very limited opportunity as it is meant for only the most vulnerable people.
Also read: Thailand provides assistance to support WFP’s food aid for Rohingyas in Bangladesh
The ambassador also highlighted the importance of holding people responsible for the genocide.
He appreciated Bangladesh’s generosity in providing shelter to the Rohingyas; otherwise, he thinks the situation would have been far worse.
On the occasion of International Day of Peace, the US ambassador said: “The essence of International Peace Day is to remind us of the critical role of peace in addressing global challenges.”
Chaired by Professor Atiqul Islam, NSU’s Vice-Chancellor, the session, held at NSU’s main auditorium, experienced the full-capacity of 1200 audience comprised of students, faculties and officials of NSU.
Welcoming all, Javed Muneer Ahmad, Chairman, NSU Board of Trustees, said that peace is the most precious resource now in a conflict-ridden world.
Dr. Abdul Wohab, Coordinator, Center for Peace Studies (CPS) made opening remarks, highlighting CPS’s role in promoting peace, sustainability, and diplomacy through research, dialogue, and community engagement.
Also read: UK to push for long-term solution to Rohingya crisis
Link between peace and sustainable dev: UN in Bangladesh marks Int'l Day of Peace on community radio
The United Nations in Bangladesh has teamed up with influencers and the Bangladesh Community Radio Association to mark the International Day of Peace.
On September 21 and 22, 19 community radio stations reaching 28 districts across Bangladesh will broadcast inspiring messages on the link between peace and sustainable development.
The messages were recorded by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office and feature various voices from Bangladesh, including a teacher of the educational platform 10 Minute School, Sakib Rashid; cricketer Jahanara Alam; ActionAid Country Director Farah Kabir; General Secretary of Bangladesh Adivasi Forum, Sanjeeb Drong; and Development Coordination Officer at the UN RCO, Halima Neyamat.
The International Day of Peace (IDP) was established in 1981 by the UN General Assembly to strengthen the ideals of peace and build a more peaceful world for everyone.
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This year’s IDP theme - Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals - draws attention to the interconnection between peace and sustainable development.
Promoting and sustaining peace contributes to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and achieving SDGs is essential to ensure just, peaceful, and inclusive societies, free from fear and violence.
A unified strategy and more funding are urgently needed to end the crisis in Myanmar, UN chief says
Commenting on the importance of the International Day of Peace, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis, said, “Restoring peace in our lives and our world is crucially needed, and I am grateful that together with the Bangladesh Community Radio Association we were able to produce and spread inspiring messages to mark the International Day of Peace across Bangladesh.”
She said responsibility for promoting peace does not solely lie with governments.
"Individual and collective action and a vibrant civic space are needed to promote solidarity, equality, inclusion, and respect. Everyone has a role to play in promoting peace and achieving the sustainable development goals.”
The 2023 observance of the International Day of Peace coincides with the SDG summit that takes place in New York in September, marking the mid-point milestone in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, as well as with the 75th anniversaries of both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide.
In his statement on the day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: “Peace is the result of action. Action to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that no one is left behind. Action to end the war on our planet and its natural gifts. Action to uphold and protect the human rights and dignity of every person — especially as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”
In conclusion, UN Secretary-General stated that “Peace is not only a noble vision for humanity. Peace is a call to action. Let us commit to build, drive, and sustain peace for all.”
The UN Secretary-General’s full statement published on September 21 is available in English and in Bangla on the UN in Bangladesh website https://tinyurl.com/yv5f72ks
Links to the radio messages will be available on the UN in Bangladesh’s X (previously Twitter) and Facebook pages.
Singapore to upgrade consulate in Dhaka to high commission from Oct 1
Singapore will upgrade its consulate in Dhaka to a high commission from October 1.
The upgrade reflects the enhanced economic and people-to-people relations between Singapore and Bangladesh, said the government of Singapore.
Singapore's support sought for Rohingya repatriation, Dhaka's inclusion as ASEAN Dialogue Partner
The development was shared by Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, to Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on September 20 during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The high commission’s operating hours will be from 9 am to 5 pm, Sundays to Thursdays (closed on Bangladesh’s public holidays and Singapore’s National Day).
Foreign minister seeks to expand economic ties with Singapore
Foreign Minister Dr Momen had earlier requested the Singapore Foreign Minister to set up a full-fledged mission in Dhaka that would benefit both countries.
Momen called for more investment from Singapore in Bangladesh and said that Singapore can take the opportunity to invest in Bangladesh’s special economic zones.
Singapore delegation meets BGMEA leaders to discuss trade potential
US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom meets Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen in New York
United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, Rashad Hussain, has met Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen in New York and discussed issues of mutual interest, including the Rohingya crisis.
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During the meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, they had a "productive discussion" on a range of issues.
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They also discussed efforts to continue to support Rohingya refugees and pursue accountability for genocide and crimes against humanity.
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Bangladesh is hosting over 1.1 million Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.
Nepal for promoting economic partnership with Bangladesh as centerpiece of bilateral relations
Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari has underscored the need for promoting economic partnership as the centerpiece of Bangladesh-Nepal relations.
He also shed light on the strong bilateral cooperation existing between Nepal and Bangladesh in areas including trade, transit, energy, tourism, connectivity, and education.
The Nepalese Embassy hosted a reception on Wednesday evening to celebrate the National Day and Constitution Day of Nepal.
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The Ambassador highlighted that the day was a reminder of the moment in which political issues were settled and democratic gains institutionalized with the promulgation of the constitution in 2015.
Army Chief leaves for China to attend 19th Asian Games
Army Chief General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed left Dhaka today for China to attend the opening of the 19th Asian Games.
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He will join as the president of Bangladesh Olympic Association to observe different games and sports events at the Asian Games in Hangzhou China On September 23.
Army chief returns from Thailand
During his visit in China, he will also exchange views with the presidents of the Olympic associations and general secretaries of different countries.
After completing the China visit, the Army Chief will attend the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs' Conclave (IPACC) in India’s Delhi, to be held on September 25-27.
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Army chiefs of different countries will join the meeting and discuss how to work together in strengthening the training cooperation among them.
The army chief is expected to return home on September 28.