United News of Bangladesh

The Bangladesh government is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad said on Saturday. He made the remarks while visiting passengers stranded at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport due to the ongoing tense situation in the region. During the visit, the minister spoke with the stranded passengers, listened to their concerns, and assured them that the government is supporting them during this difficult time. “The safety and welfare of the passengers is our top priority. Coordination is ongoing with the concerned authorities to ensure their speedy travel once the situation normalizes,” he said, urging everyone to remain patient. Several international flights have been canceled amid the tension, leaving many Umrah passengers stranded. Flights to destinations including Amman, Kuwait, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Bahrain have been suspended. Airport authorities and related agencies are working to manage the situation and provide information to passengers. Besides, Bangladesh expressed deep concern over the welfare of its citizens in the Middle East in the wake of recent hostilities in the region including Iran. Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam held an emergency meeting to review the evolving situation in the Middle East in the evening. END/UNB/M-SIS/ssk

Bangladesh on Saturday expressed deep concern over the welfare of its citizens in the Middle East in the wake of recent hostilities in the region including Iran. Bangladesh has already initiated actions to ensure the safety and security of its premises in Tehran, its diplomats and other staff in the Embassy, as well as Bangladeshi students in Iran. Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam held an emergency meeting to review the evolving situation in the Middle East in the evening.  During the meeting, they spoke to the Head of Bangladesh Mission in Tehran.  Bangladesh regrets the failure of negotiations and expresses deep concern at the latest escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  It re-emphasised the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every country in the region.  Bangladesh said it strongly believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law can resolve disputes.  Bangladesh also urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalation and immediately pursue diplomatic efforts to de-escalate. Bangladesh reaffirmed its consistent position in favour of peace, stability and security in the Middle East, and called upon the international community to intensify efforts towards restoring calm and facilitating dialogue. The suspension of air traffic and air space is affecting Bangladeshi workers destined for the Middle East.  The government has already requested all the relevant countries to allow stranded citizens, including workers, destined for the Middle East to enter when the situation improves and received assurances from some of the countries in this regard.  Bangladesh authorities have also taken measures to accommodate the needs of stranded workers at different airports in Bangladesh. 

Speakers at a dialogue on Saturday said Bangladesh needs to proactively and strategically engage its global community, an estimated 2.4 million diaspora members across regions, particularly in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries. They said this community holds significant potential in investment, innovation, knowledge exchange, skills, networks, and policy engagement, yet much of this remains underutilised. The dialogue titled “Unlocking Diaspora Potential in Nation-Building" was held in Dhaka as Bangladesh enters a new phase under a new government. Jointly organised by BOND, Club JCI, Next 50, The Daily Star, and Oxfam in Bangladesh, the event brought together around 60 participants from Bangladesh and key diaspora locations, both in person and online. The discussion emphasised a structured national system for consistent diaspora engagement, noting current efforts remain dispersed, with limited institutional mechanisms and practices linking global Bangladeshis to national development priorities. Keynote speaker Dr Tanzil Shafique, Associate Professor at the University of Sheffield, said the core challenge is not diaspora interest but the lack of credible engagement pathways. Drawing on international experience, he proposed a four-layer model: a “Front Door” for entry, clear pathways for service, investment and knowledge, a trust infrastructure for transparency, and delivery partnerships across government, the private sector and institutions. Moderating the session, Md Sariful Islam, Head of Influencing, Communications, Advocacy and Media (ICAM) at Oxfam in Bangladesh, highlighted the need to move beyond a remittance-focused view of the diaspora. He noted that diaspora contributions need to extend to investment, entrepreneurship, knowledge transfer, policy engagement, and international representation. Quazi M. Ahmed, founder of BOND, highlighted gaps in participation mechanisms and called for platforms that ensure coordination and trust. Anis Rahman, the former president of Billions for Bangladesh, emphasised the need for a functional, one-stop service to facilitate diaspora investments. Syed Saiful Haque, Chairman of the WARBE Development Foundation, noted that policy frameworks are required to connect diaspora engagement with migration, skills, and labour systems.Diaspora representatives shared their perspectives on opportunities and constraints. Muzahid Khan MBE DL from the UK stated that diaspora communities are interested in engaging with Bangladesh but require accessible platforms and clear processes. From a business and technology perspective, Syed Almas Kabir, former President of BASIS, referred to international examples, like those from India, and stressed the need for Bangladesh to develop mechanisms that support diaspora investment and collaboration. Representing the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Director Shah Nusrat Jahan outlined ongoing efforts to simplify procedures and encouraged diaspora stakeholders to engage with the agency. Former Ambassador Mosud Mannan reflected on his diplomatic experience, noting that diaspora members consistently expressed willingness to contribute, but previous initiatives lacked coordination and continuity. Additional contributions from participants across sectors—including health, technology, logistics, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship—pointed to opportunities for collaboration in areas such as digital innovation, supply chain systems, and enterprise development. Speakers including A Gafur, Dr Chowdhury H. Ahsan, Iqbal Bahar Zahid, Dr Ferdoush Saleheen, Monjur Chowdhury, Dr. Nehal Mahtab, Dr. Farazi Binti Ferdous, Shehtaz Chowdhury, Gazi Jishan, Belal Breaga Bakht, Imran Kadir, and Minhaz Anwar, SM Arifuzzaman, and others talked about the need for structured engagement mechanisms to enable these contributions. Venezuelan diaspora cautious despite Maduro’s ouster The dialogue concluded with proposed actions, including a National Diaspora Engagement Policy, an authority, a digital platform for verified opportunities, a revised diaspora bond, diaspora councils in key locations, and transparent systems for investment, reintegration, and dispute resolution. These recommendations are being compiled into a policy brief, highlighting the need to shift from fragmented efforts to structured systems enabling diaspora participation in national development.    

Bangladesh on Saturday advised its nationals in Qatar to exercise heightened caution and avoid areas near military installations amid security concerns due to the ongoing Iran-Israel ‘war’. In a statement issued by the Bangladesh Embassy in Doha, expatriates were urged to prioritise their safety by remaining indoors or staying in secure locations whenever possible. Citizens were specifically advised to avoid military facilities and to refrain from going outside unless absolutely necessary until the situation stabilises. The Embassy also instructed Bangladeshis to keep essential items readily available at all times, including cash, Qatar IDs, health cards, necessary medications, mobile phone chargers and dry food supplies. They were reminded to strictly comply with Qatari laws and closely follow all official announcements and directives issued by the host government. The Mission cautioned that sharing photos, videos or unverified information related to the situation on social media could violate local regulations, urging nationals to exercise restraint and responsibility online. Similar messages were conveyed to Bangladeshis residing in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq through Bangladesh Missions in those countries.  

Several Middle Eastern countries have temporarily closed their airspace amid rising regional security concerns following reported Israeli strikes in Iran, resulting in flight cancellations and delays on affected routes. Civil aviation authorities have suspended air traffic over countries including Bahrain, Kuwait, Dubai and Qatar, airport officials said. As a result, several scheduled commercial flights on these routes have been cancelled, delayed or rescheduled. In response, the authorities of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport have issued instructions to all concerned airlines. Airlines have been asked to notify passengers in advance about any cancellations or delays via SMS, email and call centres. They have also been directed to ensure airline representatives remain present at the airport to provide necessary information and assistance to travellers. Additionally, clear and coordinated information regarding rescheduled flights must be communicated to minimise inconvenience. Passengers planning to travel on the affected routes are advised to urgently contact their respective airline offices or travel agencies to confirm flight status and take necessary steps. The Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport authorities said the situation is being closely monitored. They urged all passengers and airlines to cooperate to ensure safety and smooth operations. Travellers bound for destinations including Dammam, Jeddah, Madinah, Riyadh, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi have been requested not to proceed to the airport without first contacting Biman Bangladesh Airlines at 13636 for the latest flight updates, according to the airline’s General Manager (Public Relations).

Amid the ongoing war between two SAARC countries - Afghanistan and Pakistan, Bangladesh has decided not to make any public comments but stressed that such war does not bring anything good. "It is an unfortunate matter. We are not saying anything in public but we are trying to make our friends understand that such war is not good for anyone," Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman told reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport upon his return from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia early Saturday. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir was also present. The Associated Press (AP) says Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say on Friday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” Pakistan, Afghanistan trade strikes as Defense Minister declares “Open War” Afghanistan launched an attack on Pakistan late Thursday, saying it was in retaliation for deadly Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan border areas Sunday. Pakistan then carried out airstrikes in Kabul and two other Afghan provinces early Friday, saying it targeted military installations. On the sidelines of the extraordinary ministerial session of the executive committee of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah, Foreign Minister Dr Rahman held bilateral talks with the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar; Foreign Minister of the Gambia, Sering Modou Njie; Foreign Minister of Palestine, Dr Varsen Ohanes Vartan Aghabekian; Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkey, Ambassador Musa Kulaklikaya; and also the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Waleed A Elkhereiji, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday. The Foreign Minister of Bangladesh and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties and agreed to work closely together to promote 'peace, stability, and shared prosperity' in the region, according to Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Minister Dr Rahman, during his recent courtesy meeting with Secretary General of SAARC Md. Golam Sarwar on February 24, reiterated Bangladesh's conviction in abiding commitment to the principles enshrined in the SAARC Charter including sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual benefit of the peoples of member states.  

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Saturday said Bangladesh enjoys strong backing from member states of the OIC but faces a challenge due to the limited time available to campaign for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). “The candidate has been changed following the change in government. One of our key challenges is that Cyprus has been campaigning throughout the year, whereas we have barely three months, or even less in hand,” he told reporters at Dhaka airport explaining the ground behind the change in Bangladesh’s candidature. Dr Khalilur, who returned from Saudi Arabia early Saturday, said discussions were held with Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) partners to assess the situation and strategise ways to secure Bangladesh’s victory.  “We have received their full and unequivocal support,” he said. The Foreign Minister said Bangladesh’s friends within the OIC have assured active campaigning in favour of Dhaka’s candidature. He said as anticipated, Palestine withdrew its candidature a few days ago. With Palestine stepping aside, Bangladesh will now contest the 2026–2027 term against Cyprus. Humayun Kabir, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, described the feedback from OIC countries as highly encouraging and strong. “We have received very positive responses. We will conduct a detailed assessment at an appropriate stage, but the support so far has been strong. The visit was both fruitful and productive,” he said. Earlier, the interim government had nominated former Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain as Bangladesh’s candidate. Following the change in government, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman nominated Dr Khalilur  Rahman for the position. Bangladesh had initially floated its candidature ahead of Palestine. The election for the President of the 81st session of the UNGA is scheduled to take place on June 2 at the UN Headquarters in New York, in accordance with Rule 30 of the Rules of Procedure. Under the established regional rotation system, the President for the 81st session will be elected from the Asia-Pacific Group. The President of the 80th session of the UNGA, Annalena Baerbock, will convene informal interactive dialogues with the candidates in May 2026. Bangladesh last held the prestigious position in 1986–87, when then Foreign Minister Humayun Rasheed Chowdhury was elected President of the 41st General Assembly. Four decades later, the country is seeking to reclaim the post. The 81st session of the UNGA will open on September 8, 2026, with the high-level General Debate commencing on September 22. Leaders attending the recent executive meeting of the OIC expressed confidence that Bangladesh will swiftly achieve political stability and accelerated development under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. They also reiterated their full support for Bangladesh’s candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the UNGA.  

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Friday said the government is working to ensure that Bangladeshi citizens can travel to India smoothly and the Indian side has shown a positive response. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working on the issue of Indian visas for Bangladeshis. We have held talks with India. They are positive so that visa services can return to normal,” she told reporters at Fulbaria High School ground in Saltha upazila of Faridpur district in the afternoon. Shama Obaed, also a Member of Parliament from Faridpur-2, attended an iftar and doa mahfil organised by BNP and its associate bodies of Ballabhdi, Sonapur and Jadunandi unions. Addressing party leaders and activists, she urged all to maintain law and order in the post-election period across every union of the upazila. “Law and order must be maintained. The peaceful environment must be upheld. Clashes and conflicts in the name of party politics must stop,” she said. Saudi Arabia issues 1.4m visas for Bangladeshis, 750,000 for work She said  involvement in violence only leads to injuries, cases  and attacks which ultimately bring no benefit. “Instead of engaging in clashes, we must focus on development—how to improve education, repair roads and work for the future of our brothers and sisters in Ballabhdi, Jadunandi, Sonapur and across the upazila. For that, we need everyone’s cooperation,” she said.

President of Algeria Abdelmadjid Tebboune has congratulated Bangladesh’s newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. In a goodwill message ,President Tebboune warmly commended Prime Minister Rahman on his election win. He expressed admiration for the Prime Minister's leadership and vision for the nation's future, emphasising the importance of strong and strategic governance. President Tebboune also reiterated Algeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between Algeria and Bangladesh. Dhaka, Delhi can work for each other's security, prosperity: Modi tells Tarique He highlighted the shared goals of both nations in fostering cooperation, with a focus on enhancing mutual collaboration for the benefit of their peoples.

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has unequivocally condemned the recent Israeli legislation on land purchase that seeks to unlawfully annex the occupied Palestinian territory. In his address to the open-ended OIC executive committee meeting at the level of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah, he said this action is designed to alter the legal and demographic character of the Palestinian lands, including the Al Quds Al Sharif. The Foreign Minister expressed his grave concern over the fact that the Israeli decision to ease land purchase and open land registries in the West Bank to public scrutiny exposes the Palestinian landowners to multiple forms of intimidation and harassment. Dr Khalilur Rahman pointed out that these actions are clearly in breach of relevant international law and undermine the very foundations of a just and lasting social order. The Foreign Minister categorically stated that the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian State following the two-State formula under 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, can offer a sustainable solution to this long protracted crisis. He outright rejected the land related legislation of Israel and demanded to ensure the due land rights of the Palestinians. The foreign minister also demanded permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an unconditional and unhindered access of the international aid workers and humanitarian support providers to the affected men, women and children in the Strip. Dr Khalilur Rahman conveyed the Ramadan greetings from Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to the Muslim Ummah and stated that the newly elected democratic Government in Bangladesh looks forward to closely working with the OIC Member States. On the sidelines of the OIC meeting, the Foreign Minister held bilateral talks with the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar; Foreign Minister of the Gambia, Mr. Sering Modou Njie; Foreign Minister of Palestine, Dr. Varsen Ohanes Vartan Aghabekian; Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkey, Ambassador Musa Kulaklikaya; and also the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Waleed A. Elkhereiji, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday. At the bilateral talks, the dignitaries from the OIC Member States congratulated the people and government of Bangladesh on the successful holding the general elections, felicitated the Prime Minister for the massive victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and expressed their keenness to work with the new Government. Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman said with the leaders the visions and work programmes of the government particularly with regard to foreign policy, foreign trade and investment, resolution of the Rohingya issue and improving effectiveness of the OIC Secretariat. They also expressed strong support to Bangladesh candidature for the Presidency of the 81st UN General Assembly. Korean FM greets Khalilur Rahman; eyes enhanced ties with Dhaka He invited the dignitaries to visit Bangladesh at their convenience. Adviser for Foreign Affairs to the Prime Minister, Humayun Kabir; Secretary (Inter-Governmental Organisations) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, M Forhadul Islam, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to OIC, MJH Jabed accompanied the Foreign Minister during the bilateral meetings.