United News of Bangladesh

The Election Commission has sought assistance from OIC member countries to ensure voting by the expatriate Bangladeshis in the upcoming national election. “We’re expecting their (OIC countries) cooperation about the voting of Bangladeshis living in different countries,” said Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaulla after a meeting with the envoys of OIC countries in Dhaka. The mission heads of 10 OIC countries stations in Dhaka were present at the meeting held at Nirbachon Bhaban in the capital. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, three election commissioners and the EC secretary were present. 42,000 Bangladeshi expats seek voter registration abroad Md Sanaullah said the heads of the missions of the OIC member countries were invited to the meeting as part of a series of views-exchanges with the development partner countries and organisations. “We’ve informed them about our current activities, democratic transition and all the activities we have undertaken focusing on the upcoming national elections. We also expect their cooperation regarding the voting of our expatriate Bangladeshis living in various countries.” he said. The Election Commissioner said the foreign diplomats shared their experiences regarding the overseas voting. “In particular, some ambassadors expressed their willingness to extend cooperation and send observers (in the next national election). We have welcomed them,” he said. In the meeting, the EC discussed its preparation, future action plans and possible areas of cooperation through a formal presentation, said Md Sanaullah. EC for Creating Good Democratic Example He said the Election Commission wants to set a good democratic instance with its future-oriented action plans. Voters in Bangladesh now stand at 123.7 million: CEC “We don't want to walk back towards the past anymore. We want to move forward. We want to create a good democratic example,” he said replying to a question. Sanaullah for Proxy System Responding to another question, the election commissioner said they shortlisted three systems – postal, online and proxy balloting system— to ensure the voting of the expatriates. He, however, said the postal ballot is currently ineffective. “Discussions were held with them (foreign diplomats) today about the online method,” he said. In this regard, the Egyptian ambassador said their experience was not good as they started and stopped online voting. Quick election possible as EC can complete voter list updating by June: BNP The Pakistani representative said their initial experience was good, they are not in a position to fully launch online from trial level. About the proxy balloting system, the election commissioner said this system is in operation in France, Belgium and the Netherlands. The proxy system is also in operation in India for soldiers. He said now a person with physical challenges can also vote with the help of another person in Bangladesh. Besides, lands and other assets can be sold by another person through power of attorney. “If we want to let our expatriates vote on a large scale, then there seems to be no other option than proxy voting. Because the remaining two options can only be introduced on piloting level and may not be introduced for a large scale," said Md Sanaullah. Talking to reporters, Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Mohd Shuhada Othman said Bangladesh has a big number of expatriates who are currently living in Malaysia. “Malaysia also supports all the reforms including the electoral reforms being undertaken by the Bangladesh government,” he said. Election Commission extends voter list updating deadline “Malaysia is willing to share its experience especially for the overseas workers for free, fair and credible elections,” said the envoy. The representatives from Algeria, Brunei Darussalam, Egypt, Indonesia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Morocco, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates were present at the meeting.

Sk. Bashir Uddin, Adviser to the Ministry of Commerce, urged Iran to increase its investment in Bangladesh's agricultural sector on Sunday. He made the call during a meeting with Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Mansour Chavoshi at the Secretariat. During the meeting, they discussed the development of bilateral relations and explored ways to increase trade and investment. The Commerce Adviser pointed out that Iran’s trade volume with Bangladesh is currently smaller than its potential, despite both countries having significant export capabilities. Govt focuses on sustainable agriculture to avert future food crisis: Shafiqul Alam He emphasised that enhancing trade relations would be mutually beneficial and called on Iran to invest more in Bangladesh's agricultural farming sector. The Iranian Ambassador said that Iran considers Bangladesh a close friend, with cultural, religious, and linguistic similarities binding the two nations. However, he noted that commercial relations had not yet found a solid foundation. The Ambassador expressed Iran’s interest in strengthening trade relations with Bangladesh moving forward. Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce Mahbubur Rahman, Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau Md. Anwar Hossain, and Secretary for Economic Affairs of the Iranian Embassy Mahmud Khoshravi were also present.

Longi, the largest solar panel manufacturer in the world, has decided to set up an office and invest in solar panel manufacturing in Bangladesh, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said on Sunday. The Ambassador said several top Chinese solar panel manufacturers visited Bangladesh in December to explore opportunities to invest in the country. They made the visit after Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus extended an invitation to Chinese companies to relocate their manufacturing plants here as part of the interim government's plan to turn the country into an economic hub. Of the companies that visited Bangladesh, Ambassador Yao said, at least two Chinese firms, including Longi, have decided to set up offices and plants in the country. "They will invest in Bangladesh very soon," he told Dr Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna. Ambassador Yao said Chinese firms have been the largest investors in Bangladesh since August 5, when the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power. He said dozens of Chinese companies have lined up to invest in Bangladesh as a dedicated Chinese export processing zone is expected to work soon. Ambassador said the upcoming official visit of the Chief Adviser to China would be the most important one in the 50-year-long relationship between the two 'trustworthy" and close friends. Guterres: Societies "stronger, more resilient" in Bangladesh when everyone can play "meaningful role" Prof Yunus welcomed more Chinese investors in Bangladesh, saying the country can be a top manufacturing hub for companies who want to export goods to Western nations. He urged Chinese hospital chains to set up top clinics here or build joint venture healthcare facilities with their Bangladeshi counterparts. "Bangladesh needs massive investment in healthcare. The Chinese hospital chains now have unique opportunities to construct hospitals here," he said. The Ambassador said China has dedicated four hospitals in the southern Chinese city of Kunming for Bangladeshi patients. A group of Bangladeshi people travelled to Kunming last week for treatment. He said Peking University, one of the world's top educational institutions, would confer an honorary doctorate on Professor Yunus during the visit. The Chief Adviser would also speak at the university. During the visit, the first bilateral foreign tour of the Chief Adviser, he would join and speak at the Boao Forum, considered the Davos of the East, where top leaders and CEOs gather every year to discuss top global issues. Prof Yunus would deliver a speech on Asia in a Changing World: Towards a Shared Future. The Chinese executive vice premier will also join him during the session. The Chief Adviser is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on March 28. The two countries will issue a joint statement after the meeting.

Chief Adviser Prof Mohammad Yunus’ scheduled visit to China from March 26-29 is going to be the “most important visit” by a Bangladesh leader over the last 50 years as the two countries are eyeing to take the relations to a new height. “This is going to be the most important visit by a Bangladeshi leader in 50 years,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, quoting Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen who  met Dr Yunus on Sunday. Alam said a big focus will be given on relocation of Chinese factories to Bangladesh to make the country a manufacturing hub "We want to create a revolution in the manufacturing sector," said the press secretary, adding that it helps create more jobs and boost export from Bangladesh to the global market. Reform initiative completely a homegrown process: CA’s Press Secretary He said there will be a series of engagements during chief adviser's China visit. Ambassador Yao called on the chief adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna to discuss the upcoming visit to China. Highlighting the outcomes of the meeting, Alam said the Boao Forum for Asia is called Davos of the East where top leaders of Asia and different countries and chief executive officers (CEOs) of giant global firms participate. On the sidelines of the forum, he said, the chief adviser is likely to have meetings with CEOs of some companies. EU to support Bangladesh in holding elections meeting international standards Dr Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold their first ever bilateral meeting on March 28. Dhaka and Beijing are eyeing stronger ties marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations. The chief adviser will attend a programme on March 29 at the Peking University and will return to Dhaka at night (same day). As per the plans, the chief adviser will first attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China's Hainan Province. On March 27, Dr Yunus will participate in the inaugural plenary session of the BFA and Executive Vice President of the State Council will meet the Chief Adviser the same day. On August 25 last year, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen conveyed the Chinese leadership's invitation to Dr Yunus to visit China at his convenience. “China and Bangladesh are best friends and trustworthy partners. So, whatever change is taking place internationally or domestically in Bangladesh, our policy remains steadfast,” Ambassador Yao said recently, adding that no matter who forms the government China wants to be their partner and their policy is not related to any particular government. He said they believe their cooperation is for the benefit of all the Bangladeshi people and the people of China as well. BFA Secretary General Zhang Jun said with the theme "Asia in the changing World: Towards a shared Future," this year's event will focus on development, foster dialogue, explore innovative formats and value tangible outcomes, all aimed at promoting international development and cooperation. He said the theme is intended to reinvigorate multilateralism, promote openness and development, jointly respond to global challenges, and carry out the commitments of the UN Summit of the Future while focusing on the development of Asia. Many heads of international and regional organizations, ministerial-level officials, entrepreneurs of Fortune Global 500, and renowned experts and scholars have already confirmed their participation in the annual conference, Zhang said. He said the event will focus on four subject areas: building trust and promoting cooperation in a fast-changing world; rebalancing globalisation for inclusive development; accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals for more effective responses to global challenges; and strengthening AI application and governance for innovation-driven development.  

There is no security risk over the upcoming celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr and the National Independence and National Day, said Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Gani on Sunday. Speaking at a press briefing after a preparatory meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs, he assured all that the government had taken comprehensive measures to maintain law and order during the events. "The law enforcement agencies are well-prepared to ensure the safety and security of the public. The police are in a strong position, and adequate steps have been taken for the safety of passengers travelling home for Eid," Gani said. HC upholds death sentences for 20 Buet students in Abrar Fahad murder case He added that measures have been put in place to prevent theft, robbery, extortion and pickpocketing, with law enforcement agencies actively patrolling and conducting regular checks. Shopping malls have also been secured in preparation for the festivities. In response to potential labour unrest during Eid, Gani revealed that relevant authorities had been instructed to ensure the timely payment of wages and allowances to workers before the holiday. He emphasised the importance of avoiding any disruptions to industrial peace during this period. Any violence against women received in ‘HELP App’ to be considered as FIR: DMP chief Chaired by the Home Affairs Adviser, Lieutenant General (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the meeting  was attended by key officials, including Khoda Bakhsh Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam.

The government of Japan on Sunday extended a grant of U$ 135,237, which is approximately Tk 16.3 million, to two Bangladeshi NGOs - MedGlobal Inc. and Training Assistance and Rural Advancement Non-Government Organization (TARANGO). Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi signed the ‘grant contracts’ for Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGHSP) at the Embassy of Japan with the respective organizations. MedGlobal Inc. has been awarded U$ 57,835 as a grant for the project for the improvement of the facility and medical equipment at the Primary Healthcare Center, Rohingya Camp 24. MedGlobal Inc. provides emergency response and health programs to build resilience among vulnerable communities worldwide. Training Assistance and Rural Advancement Non-Government Organization (TARANGO) has been awarded U$ 77,402 as a grant for the project for the construction of a community Skills Development Center in Agailjhara Upazila, Barishal district. TARANGO is contributing to the promotion of women’s economic empowerment through programs in handicrafts, women’s entrepreneurship development, savings and microfinance, etc.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres concluded his Ramadan solidarity visit on Sunday morning, expressing his hope that Bangladesh would become one of the most perfect democracies in the world through reforms. Guterres left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 9:55am on Sunday. UN chief voices “concern” over disinformation targeted against Bangladesh: Foreign Adviser Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and Chief Adviser's High Representative for Rohingya issue Khalilur Rahman saw him off at the airport. Before his departure, the UN Secretary General spoke to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus over the phone and exchanged farewell greetings, CA's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Before leaving Dhaka, Guterres expressed his total solidarity with the efforts that Bangladesh is taking in order to introduce reforms that will make Bangladesh "one of the most perfect democracies" in the world. During his visit, the secretary-general met with top officials, including Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus; Foreign Adviser Md Towhid Hossain, and High Representative Khalilur Rahman. He visited the Rohingya camps to share Ramadan Solidarity Iftar with about 10 million Rohingya when he was accompanied by the Chief Adviser. He also joined a roundtable discussion on reforms, met with Bangladeshi youth representatives and members of the civil society. Guterres, who arrived in Dhaka on March 13, said Bangladesh can count on full support of the UN in its way to provide its citizens a set of institutions which will be able to guide the country towards "sustainable and inclusive" development. During iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Dr Yunus on Saturday, Guterres expressed his deep admiration to him and his team for the work they are conducting. He reiterated that Bangladesh can count on the UN's full solidarity in mobilis.ing all their capacities to support the reforms in Bangladesh. Guterres highlighted Bangladesh’s support to the United Nations and its mission, particularly in peacekeeping. Bangladesh is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, with thousands of soldiers serving in some of the world’s most dangerous environments. UN chief acknowledges people’s hopes for democracy, justice, prosperity “I want to pay tribute to the sacrifices and dedication of Bangladeshi peacekeepers,” he said. Regarding Bangladesh's efforts to support over 1 million Rohingya refugees, Guterres said Bangladesh's generosity is "absolutely outstanding". "You have been a remarkable example....that should be followed," said the UN chief.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday said societies are "stronger and more resilient" in Bangladesh and around the world when everyone can play a "meaningful role" in political, economic and social life. The UN chief thanked the representatives of civil society for sharing their views with him. Guterres commended the youth of Bangladesh for their leadership and commitment to shaping  the future of their country. "Their dedication to equality, justice and peace is inspiring, and contributes to the global call by the youth for action towards social, economic and climate justice," said the UN Secretary-General. Guterres will leave Dhaka at 9:55 am on Sunday, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. High Representative to the Chief Adviser for Rohingya crisis and matters of priority Khalilur Rahman is scheduled to see him off at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Guterres joined a roundtable discussion on reform proposals participated by representatives of political parties, National Consensus Building Commission and other stakeholders. UN Under Secretary General Rabab Fatima, Bangladesh’s Law Adviser Dr Asif, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and representatives of other political parties, Prof Ali Riaz, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, Badiul Alam Majumdar and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis were, among others, present at the dialogue held at Hotel InterContinental. Guterres also joined another dialogue with youths and had a meeting with members of civil society. Necessary dialogue must take place with Arakan Army: Guterres Earlier in the morning, UN Secretary-General Guterres officially opened a new "UN House in Bangladesh" in the city. Industries, Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan; Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis were, among others, present. The UN chief visited the new UN Common Premises to view the 50th anniversary photo exhibition and joined the official UN flag-raising. The visit followed a meeting with UN Country Team Bangladesh. Guterres and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain joined a joint press briefing before joining Iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus. At the media briefing, Guterres recognised people’s hopes for a future of greater democracy, justice and prosperity in Bangladesh as the country undergoes a 'significant transition' under the leadeship of Chief Adviser Dr Yunus. "This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh and the international community must play its part in supporting your efforts toward a just, inclusive and prosperous future," he said. As the country undergoes important reforms and transitions, Guterres assured that the UN stands ready to assist in fostering peace, national dialogue, trust and healing. "You can count on the UN to be your steadfast partner, working alongside the people of Bangladesh to help build a sustainable and equitable future for all," said the UN chief.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday said the Arakan Army is an entity with which he believes a “necessary dialogue must take place” but stressed that it would be “extremely difficult” to have an immediate “dignified return” of the Rohingya refugees amid heavy fighting between the Myanmar Army and Arakan Army. “I think it is important to engage with the Arakan Army in order for full respect of the rights of the Rohingya population in Rakhine,” he said while responding to a question at a joint media briefing with Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. UN chief acknowledges people’s hopes for democracy, justice, prosperity Guterres said it is essential to increase the pressure of the international community and all the neighbours of Myanmar in order to guarantee that fighting ends and democracy is finally reestablished there. The UN chief said it is absolutely essential to mobilise the whole of the international community, all the neighbours of Myanmar, not just Bangladesh, to make things move to find a solution, starting by seizing the violence and at the same time creating the mechanisms leading to a true democratic solution in Myanmar that would naturally facilitate the return of the Rohingya refugees. “At the same time, we need to intensify the humanitarian aid inside Myanmar to create a condition for that return to be successful,” Guterres said. He also referred to the possibility of having a humanitarian aid channel from Bangladesh, if circumstances allow. “But that is obviously a matter that would require authorization and cooperation…..” The government of Bangladesh and the Arakan Army (AA) should immediately facilitate humanitarian aid and cross-border trade to reach war-affected civilians in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, Fortify Rights said on March 12. “Rights-respecting countries should explore all possibilities to facilitate the delivery of life-saving aid to communities in need in Myanmar,” said Ejaz Min Khant, Human Rights Associate at Fortify Rights. “A humanitarian corridor between Bangladesh and Myanmar would enable vital aid and trade for all communities. Failure to act will cost lives.”     Asked whether the issue of establishing a humanitarian corridor was discussed during the UN chief's visit, Foreign Adviser Hossain said these are the things that actually have been going on in their interactions with the international community and particularly in the UN. UN chief voices “concern” over disinformation targeted against Bangladesh: Foreign Adviser In particular, he said, this issue was not discussed with the UN Secretary General. “This is much more of an operational matter which we will of course deal with the local offices of the UN.”     The Adviser said the government of Bangladesh wants to see the Rohingyas return to their homeland with dignity and safety and the solution lies with Myanmar. “It is time that we unify our efforts to put pressure on Myanmar authorities – I am not saying only authority because of the new realities on the border – we have to convince all of them – put appropriate pressure – so that they (Rohingyas) can go back to their rightful place,” Hossain said. Responding to a question on sanctions, Guterres said he believes that sanctions are one possible instrument and it is difficult to obtain UN Security Council’s approval for imposing sanctions and those sanctions not being possible.       The UN Secretary-General, during his visit to the Rohingya refugee camps on Friday, vowed to do everything in his power to prevent further hardship as drastic aid cuts threaten food supplies and other critical relief efforts. UN aid efforts are in jeopardy following funding reductions announced by major donors, including the United States and several European nations. Guterres described Cox’s Bazar as “ground zero” for the impact of these cuts, warning of a looming humanitarian disaster if immediate action is not taken. “We are at risk of cutting the food rations in this camp,” he said. “That would be an unmitigated disaster that we cannot accept because people will suffer and even people will die.” Guterres emphasised that his visit, which took place during the holy month of Ramadan, was a mission of solidarity with the Rohingya refugees and the Bangladeshi people who generously host them. “I am here to shine a global spotlight on the plight – but also the potential – of Rohingya refugees,” he said. “The more than one million Rohingya refugees here are proud. They are resilient. And they need the world’s support.” He praised the support offered by Bangladesh and local communities who have shared their land, forests, water and resources with the refugees, calling it nothing short of “enormous.” Reforms: Guterres holds talks with political leaders, Consensus Building Commission Bangladesh is hosting over one million Rohingya refugees who fled violence in neighbouring Myanmar. The largest exodus followed brutal attacks by Myanmar security forces in 2017, a series of events that the then UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein described as “textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” The Secretary-General emphasised that the international community cannot turn its back on the Rohingya crisis. “We cannot accept that the international community forgets about the Rohingyas,” he said, adding that he will “speak loudly” to world leaders that more support is urgently needed.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Saturday said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “expressed concern” over the disinformation targeted against Bangladesh. “His visit would more than counterweigh the misinformation and disinformation campaign and the attempts to destabilise Bangladesh,” he told reporters at a joint media briefing with Guterres at a city hotel. Hossain said his (Guterres) assurance of support would help Bangladesh in its successful reform process and transition to democracy in line with the common aspiration of the people of Bangladesh. UN chief acknowledges people’s hopes for democracy, justice, prosperity The UN chief appreciated the complexities of the reform process for a “free and fair election” and a “real transformation” of the country, said the Foreign Adviser. Guterres promised the UN’s total commitment to the Reform process under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and said he will do whatever he can do to support the endeavours of the interim government, and stand by Bangladesh and its people. Guterres is now in Bangladesh as part of his “Ramadan Solidarity Visit” and is scheduled to leave Dhaka on Sunday morning. The visit comes with the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s membership in the United Nations. “This marks a historical moment for both Bangladesh and the United Nations, as the Secretary General himself is witnessing the formative stage of a new Bangladesh following the supreme sacrifices of the July-August mass uprising that aspired for a just, democratic and inclusive society,” Hossain said. UN chief Guterres opens new "UN House in Bangladesh" The ‘Ramadan Solidarity Visit’ is a tradition that Secretary-General Guterres himself initiated, and in his language - “to remind the true face of Islam”. During the trying times, the Secretary General always stood up and expressed solidarity with the true endeavours for discrimination-free, peaceful, democratic society, said the Foreign Adviser. The Foreign Adviser said this visit is significantly meaningful for the government and for the future Bangladesh. Guterres also expressed his full solidarity with the Rohingya people and vowed to work for their repatriation to Myanmar with dignity, security and rights. During this visit, the Secretary General and his high delegation that includes, among others, Undersecretary General Rabab Fatema, met the Chief Adviser, visited Cox’s Bazar Rohingya camps, met the Rohingya children and youth, witnessed how they get equipped with portable skills and learning opportunities for a dignified return to their homeland. Reforms: Guterres holds talks with political leaders, Consensus Building Commission They had an extraordinarily historical solidarity iftar with more than one hundred thousand Rohingya people along with the Chief Adviser. To understand the peoples’ aspirations of the future Bangladesh, Hossain said, Guterres graced three meetings with youth, civil societies as well as with the members of the Reform Commissions whose contributions are paving the way for the July Charter- the blueprint for country’s democratic transition, and draw the political, judicial, electoral, administrative, anti-corruption and police reforms. During this visit, Guterres learnt how desperately the Rohingyas want to return to their motherland, uphold their identity, enjoy their rights in the land they own and live a life they consider dignified. They were loud and clear that they see a dignified life in their forefather’s land- Rakhine, not in the neighbouring country’s shelter- the Cox’s Bazar camp, Hossain said. They said ‘even an insect has its own home but we don’t have’. Thus, they defined voluntariness and dignity for themselves. The Secretary General with his gracious presence at the Rohingya camp expressed solidarity to the cravings of the Rohingyas. He spoke aloud to draw the urgent attention of the international community to extend all-out support to stand by the Rohingyas to keep the spotlight on them – the most discriminated people of the world. He also assured to provide his support to the successful holding of the UN conference on Rohingya in September 2025. The Secretary General also learnt what legacy the interim Government was left with when they took charge.