United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Friday inaugurated the first-ever ‘Jamdani Exposition’ at the National Crafts Museum, offering Indian audiences an exclusive glimpse into the intricate artistry of Bangladesh’s most celebrated weave. Conceptualised by Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India M Riaz Hamidullah, the exposition, according to him, was born from a serendipitous moment. “During our Independence Day anniversary celebrations this year, we displayed a few Jamdanis. The overwhelming response inspired us to take it a step further,” he said. “Through this exhibition, we hope more people discover the timeless beauty of Jamdani.” Curated by renowned Indian craft and textile revivalist Chandrashekhar Bheda, the showcase brings together some of the finest Jamdanis woven by Bangladesh’s master artisans, including two rare 150-year-old pieces. “Jamdani cannot be replicated by machine,” Bheda noted at the inauguration. “Its sheer transparency and delicacy are like weaving magic that floats in the air.” Adding conceptual depth to the exposition, co-curator Chandrashekhar Saha, a pioneering force in Bangladesh’s craft revival and a former design leader at Aarong, underlined the fabric’s lineage: “Once, Bengal’s Muslin reigned supreme. Jamdani stands on that same pedestal–an art you must see and feel to understand. Let us hope its legacy endures.”

In an increasingly unpredictable global economy, investments in the socio-economic transformation of rural areas are fundamental to a more stable and prosperous world. That’s the message that Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will take to the 80th UN General Assembly in New York, challenging the international community to consider these investments in their approach to global security, said IFAD on Friday. “Global stability and security take root when we unlock a path to a brighter future for rural people and deliver quality of life and job opportunities,” said Lario, who leads the only International Financial Institution focusing exclusively on rural development. Rural areas are home to 80 per cent of the world’s poorest people. Investing in rural communities and agrifood systems strengthens food security, expands economic opportunity, and builds resilience to climate change for more than 3 billion people living in rural areas of developing countries. Investments in rural transformation have shown impressive returns. An IFAD investment in Senegal has already enabled 10,000 young women and men choose to return to rural areas as they now earn up to seven times the national minimum wage. Ambitious partnerships and development finance As development aid currently declines, countries seek out sustainable financing sources to continue their development. Development finance provides a viable alternative source. "The present and future of development finance lies in smart and effective partnerships that align public goals with incentives that attract private investors,” said Lario. IFAD is deepening its efforts to bring together public resources and private funds, and rural people, while small-scale food producers in their capacities as entrepreneurs and business owners. Through innovative financing tools that incentivize investment, IFAD has shown how to make rural development both investable and transformative. IFADs’ Private Sector Financing Programme has mobilized US$165 million in co-financing, nearly half from private investors. IFAD will also participate in the discussions to reform the UN, a “healthy exercise to ensure focus, delivery and impact,” according to the Fund. With one of the lowest cost structures among international financial institutions, IFAD has been leading the way to enhance its effectiveness, efficiency, and organizational agility. The latest reform of the Fund has saved US$5.5 million through decentralization and cut project design and disbursement times by nearly half, among others.

High Commissioner of the Maldives to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed has emphasised her country’s growing tourism partnership with Bangladesh, noting Bangladesh as an emerging and important source market for the Maldives in South Asia. She also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in sustainable tourism, hospitality training, and connectivity. Maldives bans  Israelis in show of support for Palestine The High Commissioner attended the inaugural session of the 12th Asian Tourism Fair in Dhaka as a special guest. The Maldives, represented at the Fair by the High Commission together with Visit Maldives, warmly invited Bangladeshi travelers to experience the “Sunny Side of Life.”    

Highlighting the importance of increased funding for the Rohingya population, Chair of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights Mounir Satouri has expressed optimism that the high-level conference, scheduled to take place in New York on September 30, will contribute to finding a political solution. The only long-term solution to the crisis lies in improving the situation in Myanmar and ensuring the safe and voluntary return of the displaced populations, he told UNB in an interview. Satouri, who wrapped up his Bangladesh visit on Thursday night, said that objective remains one supported by the European Union (EU). But the international community as a whole has to ensure that the conditions for such a return are made possible, he said, hoping that the high-level conference that will take place in New York on September 30 will contribute to finding a political solution. Bangladesh hosts over 1.3 million Rohingya refugees who fled to escape persecution following the Myanmar military crackdown against the minority in 2017. The situation in the refugee camps in Bangladesh is dire, with overcrowding, limited resources and ongoing humanitarian challenges. Fair elections must; results should be respected by all: Mounir Satouri Asked about the funding issue, Satouri said the EU has now become the main donor for this crisis and will have to mobilise other donors - probably also donors in the region - to try and offset the decline in funding. Indeed, he said, it is neither possible nor normal that Bangladesh has had to bear the brunt of the withdrawal of US funds. However, in the meantime, these refugees are here in Bangladesh and they have needs, Satouri said, adding that the international community must continue supporting Bangladesh. Asked about their visit to the Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar, he said it was important to go and visit the camps, and it was also a way of sending a political message - to acknowledge and commend the efforts of the government of Bangladesh. “We, of course, admire and welcome that Bangladesh has hosted over a million refugees on its territory for eight years now, and this effort on behalf of Bangladesh has often been overlooked,” Satouri said. Regarding funding, he said the EU has committed to maintaining its level of funding to Bangladesh for the rising crisis. Prof Yunus urges swift shift to clean, affordable energy for Bangladesh The UN General Assembly will hold the high-level plenary meeting to address the crisis facing Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will attend the meeting on September 30 that aims to sustain international attention, review the situation on the ground, and propose a concrete, time-bound plan for a sustainable resolution—including efforts to ensure the voluntary, safe and dignified return of displaced communities. The Chief Adviser, who is scheduled to reach New York on September 22 to participate in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), has recently placed seven-point proposals, seeking collective efforts for charting a practical roadmap for the speedy, safe, dignified, voluntary and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homes in Rakhine as soon as possible. "We must not be held hostage to mere rhetoric. The time for action is now," he said while speaking at the ‘Stakeholders Dialogue’ in Cox’s Bazar. Prof Yunus said it is not only the responsibility of Bangladesh but also of the international community to share the burden of the Rohingya crisis, to reflect on the possible solutions and to play an active role in implementing them. He said the Rohingya issue and its sustainable resolution must be kept alive on the global agenda as they need support until they return home.  

Chair of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights Mounir Satouri has said the national election in Bangladesh must take place in a ‘fair and transparent’ manner and its results should be respected by all, stressing that political stability is essential for economic development and improved living conditions in the country. “Of course, the upcoming elections (Feb next) must take place, they must take place in a fair and transparent manner and the results of such an election should be respected by all,” he told UNB in an interview, noting that this is the condition required for stability after elections in Bangladesh. Satouri, who wrapped up his Bangladesh visit on Thursday night, however, said elections are only one of the steps in the process, and it is important that all political stakeholders support the reforms that have garnered consensus and their application. Other members of the delegation were Isabel Wiseler-Lima (EPP, Luxembourg), Arkadiusz Mularczyk (ECR, Poland), Urmas Paet (Renew Europe, Estonia), and Catarina Vieira (Greens/EFA, The Netherlands).

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has underscored the urgent need for Bangladesh to transition towards cleaner, safer, and more affordable energy solutions as the country navigates a new path toward sustainable economic development. Speaking during a virtual conference on Thursday evening with Carl Page, Chairman of the Anthropocene Institute, and his colleagues, Professor Yunus said Bangladesh—one of the world’s most densely populated and climate-vulnerable nations—cannot afford prolonged reliance on fossil fuels. “It is time for Bangladesh to seriously consider clean energy alternatives, including large-scale solar deployment,” Professor Yunus said. Carl Page highlighted recent advancements in next-generation nuclear technologies and hybrid systems that offer reliable, zero-carbon power. Prof Yunus congratulates Bangladesh on re-election to UPU Council He emphasised that barge-mounted nuclear reactors are cost-effective, low-maintenance, and capable of powering Bangladesh’s growing industrial sector for decades. Nuclear power is no longer a taboo topic among major development financiers like the World Bank, Page said, adding that countries such as Indonesia are already adopting these technologies to meet their rising energy demands. He said Bangladesh, with its strong track record of innovation, is well-positioned to lead in clean energy transition, delivering benefits such as job creation, energy price stability and enhanced industrial competitiveness. “Bangladesh can serve as a strategic hub for emerging technologies and a peaceful leader in atomic innovation,” Page added. Prof Yunus acknowledged that the interim government has recently introduced a new national power policy aimed at accelerating solar energy adoption. Steps taken to ensure fair, peaceful polls: Prof Yunus He, however, said any decision on nuclear options would require rigorous research and feasibility assessments. “We will certainly explore these opportunities. But we need in-depth studies on these promising technologies. There is no question—Bangladesh must drastically reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.” Also present at the meeting were Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Lamiya Morshed, Senior Secretary and SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator.

Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanashyam Bhandari has highlighted the resilience of Nepal’s tourism industry, stressing that it has always managed to recover swiftly despite various shocks. Speaking as a special guest at the inaugural ceremony of the 12th Asia Tourism Fair being held in Dhaka from 18–20 September, Ambassador Bhandari emphasised the growing tourism cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between Nepal and Bangladesh. He underscored the need to further strengthen such linkages for the mutual benefit of the two countries. New Prime Minister of Nepal calls for unity after deadly protests Nepal is participating in the Fair as the Prime Partner Country, represented by a 16-member delegation led by the Nepal Tourism Board. The delegation includes representatives from Nepali tour operators, travel agencies, and hoteliers.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has briefed newly appointed Ambassador of the Netherlands, Boris van Bommel on the interim government's preparations to hold a general election in the first half of February, emphasising steps taken to ensure the polls are free, fair and peaceful. The newly appointed Ambassador met Chief Adviser Prof Yunus at the Guest House Jamuna on Thursday, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder on Friday. During the meeting, they discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including strengthening bilateral relations, the upcoming general election, trade and agriculture and the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian crisis. Ambassador van Bommel reaffirmed his country’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition. He noted that a European Union pre-election observation team is scheduled to arrive in Bangladesh this week, with the Netherlands actively supporting the mission. The discussion also touched on bilateral cooperation in water management. Professor Yunus recalled how Bangladesh has benefitted from Dutch expertise in managing floods and protecting low-lying coastal areas. Read: February polls to be peaceful, festive despite attempts to delay: Prof Yunus “We have a lot in common. There is much we can build together and learn from one another’s experiences,” the Chief Adviser said. Ambassador van Bommel expressed interest in Bangladesh’s recent development achievements, including its innovations in social business and microcredit. Prof Yunus appealed for increased Dutch aid to support more than one million Rohingya refugees currently residing in Cox’s Bazar, citing a significant funding shortfall that threatens ongoing humanitarian efforts. He informed the ambassador of an upcoming high-level international conference on the Rohingya crisis, scheduled for September 30 at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Chief Adviser expressed the hope that the event would galvanise international support and help mobilise critical funding for the humanitarian response in the camps. Read more: Bangladesh ready to scale up imports from US: Prof Yunus Ambassador van Bommel acknowledged the urgency of the crisis, stating that the Rohingya issue deserves greater international attention. He, however, noted that global focus has been diverted by other ongoing geopolitical conflicts. Lamiya Morshed, Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator of the government, was also present at the meeting.

Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder on Thursday said inclusion of the political leaders in Bangladesh’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this year is a welcome step, as it provides an opportunity to showcase the national unity before the world, regardless of political differences. “It also offers our leaders a chance to bridge gaps and build understanding while spending time together,” he said. By including the political leaders in the official Bangladesh delegation, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has once again demonstrated his wisdom and statesmanship, Azad said, adding,  “Let us hope this visit proves to be as successful as anticipated.” BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP leader Humayun Kabir, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Syeed Abdullah Muhammad Taher and National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Akhter Hossen will be part of the Bangladesh delegation to the 80th UNGA at the invitation of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus. With an elected government expected to take office in February, this year’s UNGA comes at a critical moment, Azad said. In a world unsettled by multiple conflicts, he thinks, the forum can serve as a valuable platform for Bangladesh’s political leadership to strengthen mutual understanding. “The plenary session on the Rohingya crisis following the UNGA makes the physical presence of our leaders all the more crucial for ensuring policy continuity,” Azad said. In addition, he said, meetings with NRBs and business leaders could provide valuable insights for the country’s governance in the near future. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will reach New York on September 22 to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he is set to deliver his official statement and hold a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines. 2013 Shapla Chattar violence claimed at least 58 lives: DPS Azad The Chief Adviser will deliver his speech at the UNGA on September 26, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain told reporters during a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Wednesday. The Chief Adviser will leave Dhaka for New York by a commercial flight. He is scheduled to return home on October 2, said the Foreign Affairs Adviser.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said Bangladesh and China will move forward hand in hand to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, bringing peace, prosperity and happiness to the people of both countries and the world. In a video message on Wednesday night marking two occasions, Prof Yunus reviewed the development of bilateral relations over the past 50 years, stating that China is Bangladesh's closest friend and most reliable partner. Extending warm congratulations on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic ties, he expressed gratitude for China's long-standing trust, assistance, and support for Bangladesh. He spoke highly of the remarkable achievements made by China under the leadership of the Communist Party of China in areas such as economic development, technological innovation, poverty alleviation, and serving the people, as well as its inspiration and contributions to the Global South and the international community.