United News of Bangladesh

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said there is an indication that more Bangladeshis are likely to be arrested as Malaysia is looking across the country to see whether anyone is involved in any radical militant group. “Two more people have been arrested on the same charges….we have been given an indication that more arrests will be made,” he said while responding to a question at the Foreign Service Academy. Earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said Bangladesh will cooperate with Malaysia in the ‘terror investigation’ as the Malaysian authorities announced that they had arrested 36 Bangladeshis in the recent security operations for their alleged involvement in a ‘radical militant’ movement. “We want to cooperate fully. I understand they will cooperate with us. I have assured them of cooperation from our side. We want this bad name not to come to our shoulder,” said the Foreign Affairs Adviser. Malaysia to grant Multiple Entry Visas to Bangladeshi workers He said if anyone is involved, they want punishment according to the provisions of that country. “If proven against them under the law there, they can be jailed for 2-7 years, if they are acquitted, it will be fine.” The Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur immediately engaged with the relevant Malaysian authorities and formally requested the identities of the individuals and information regarding the allegations brought against them. Bangladesh reiterated its firm position against all forms of terrorism, violent extremism and militancy, and it remains ready to extend full cooperation to the Malaysian authorities in this regard. Of the arrested or detained people, formal charges have been filed against five in Malaysian courts. During his recent visit to Malaysia, Foreign Adviser Hossain expressed concerns over the arrests of Bangladeshi nationals on charges of terrorism. He said the government of Bangladesh will work with Malaysia to investigate the allegations of militancy against Bangladeshi nationals who were arrested recently by the Malaysian Police. The issues were discussed during a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Foreign Minister Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan held in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) ministerial meeting. 96 Bangladeshis among 131 foreigners denied entry to Malaysia Adviser Hossain reiterated the firm position of the government against terrorism and sought Malaysia's cooperation in its own investigation into the allegations through exchange of information and findings. The Malaysian Foreign Minister assured Dhaka of facilitating access and cooperation to Bangladesh authorities.  

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) can be signed with a country but he does not know exactly what will happen in case of the United States as the negotiations are still underway led by the Commerce Ministry.  “Non-disclosure agreement can certainly be done with a country…I have given you a very technical answer,” he said without getting into details. The Foreign Adviser made the remarks when asked about the outcome of tariff negotiations and whether they (interim government) have the authority to sign the NDA. An NDA, also known as a confidentiality agreement, is usually a legally binding contract that outlines confidential information and restricts its disclosure to unauthorised parties. The Adviser said the ministry concerned knows what will happen or not in this case.  “I do not want to make a comment on this. Since negotiations are ongoing, let's see what the outcome is,” he said. Earlier, Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin said the interim government is preparing for another round of talks with Washington, hoping to reach a consensus before the August 1 deadline. Dhaka remains optimistic that a positive outcome can be achieved within the stipulated time as Bangladesh and the United States have agreed on some more issues on the third and final day of the second round of trade talks between the two countries. Starting on August 1, 2025, US President Donald Trump said they will charge Bangladesh a tariff of only 35% on any and all Bangladeshi products sent into the United States, separate from all sectoral tariffs. Bangladesh-China Apon Media Club, DRU to boost media collaboration Both sides have decided that inter-ministerial discussions will continue among themselves and the representatives of the two countries will sit in on the talks again. Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin on Monday described the recently held tariff policy discussions between Bangladesh and the United States as ‘encouraging’. “We returned from the US Sunday after concluding the talks. We briefed our stakeholders on various aspects of the discussions,” he told reporters following a meeting at the Ministry of Commerce. Sk Bashir shared insights into the draft Reciprocal Tariff Agreement currently under negotiation between the two countries and confirmed that preparations are already underway for the third round of discussions. “We are preparing to visit the United States again this month. We’re hopeful of a positive outcome,” he said.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus is sending mangoes as goodwill gifts to several South Asian leaders, with deliveries scheduled based on available flight timings.  In addition to the President and Prime Minister of India, the recipients include the King and Prime Minister of Bhutan; the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister of Nepal; the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan; and the President of the Maldives. “These mangoes are being sent on behalf of the Chief Adviser and will be delivered over the next few days, subject to flight availability,” an official told UNB. Prof Yunus sends Modi mangoes in a sweet gesture of goodwill In a parallel gesture, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain is also sending mangoes to the Foreign Ministers of the countries, as well as to the Chief Ministers of some Indian states. Meanwhile, the shipment of mangoes sent to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Chief Adviser Prof Yunus arrived in New Delhi on Monday.  The consignment, weighing 1,000 kilogrammes, contains the renowned Bangladeshi mango variety 'Haribhanga'. As part of this friendly exchange between the two neighbours, the mangoes will also be shared with dignitaries from the Indian Prime Minister’s Office, diplomats and other officials over the coming days.

The Indian government on Tuesday said they are willing to cooperate with Bangladesh for the repair and reconstruction of the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh. "We note with profound regret that the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, belonging to his grandfather and eminent litterateur, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, is being demolished," said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in its reaction. ‘Priyo Satyajit’ premieres on Chorki marking Bengali maestro's 104th birth anniversary The property, presently owned by the government of Bangladesh, is in a state of disrepair, said the Indian government. Given the building’s landmark status, India said, symbolising Bangla cultural renaissance, it would be preferable to reconsider the demolition and examine options for its repair and reconstruction as a museum of literature and a symbol of the shared culture of India and Bangladesh. "The government of India would be willing to extend cooperation for this purpose," said the MEA.

In a significant step toward enhancing media cooperation between Bangladesh and China, the Bangladesh-China Apon Media Club and Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday at the CMG Bangla Dhaka office. The MoU was signed by Moinul Hasan Sohel, general secretary of DRU, and Olivia Chu, representative of the Bangladesh-China Apon Media Club, on behalf of their respective organizations. Welcoming the DRU delegates at the ceremony, Yu Kuang Yue, director of the Bangla Department of CMG, expressed his delight over the agreement.   He emphasised the strong bilateral ties that have developed between the two countries over the past 50 years, noting that the media plays a pivotal role in strengthening these relations. “This MoU will serve as a bridge for further collaboration between Chinese and Bangladeshi media,” he said. DRU General Secretary Moinul Hasan said the agreement opens up new avenues for cooperation in sectors such as tourism, health, and education. He added that this initiative will contribute to further solidifying economic ties between the two nations.   DRU Vice President Gazi Anwar highlighted the importance of accurate information. “Bangladeshi journalists can now source news about China directly from Chinese media, ensuring factual and authentic reporting. We want to see China through Chinese eyes, not just through foreign outlets,” he said. South Korean Ambassador seeks enhanced trade and investment in Bangladesh Joint Secretary of DRU, Nadia Sharmin, emphasised the importance of creating a media bridge between the two nations. “The longstanding relationship between Bangladesh and China needed a dedicated media linkage, and today’s agreement fulfills that need. We hope to walk together on the path of technology and development,” she said. Other DRU officials present at the event included Organizational Secretary Abdul Hai Tuhin, Women Affairs Secretary Rozina Rozy, and Publicity and Publication Secretary Mizan Chowdhury. Journalists from CMG Bangla’s Dhaka office also attended the ceremony. During the event, discussions were held on future collaborations including information exchange programs, journalist training, and launching awards for best reporting, aimed at fostering deeper ties and professional development. The Bangladesh-China Apon Media Club was established in December 2024, while the Dhaka Reporters Unity, founded on May 26, 1995, is currently the largest organisation of reporters in Bangladesh.

Archbishop Kevin S. Randall, the Apostolic Nuncio (Ambassador of the Holy See), has extended an invitation to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus for an inter-religious dialogue scheduled for September 6-12.  Archbishop Randall met the Chief Adviser on Tuesday at the State Guest House Jamuna and emphasised the programme's dual approach, aimed at both academic and practical dialogue to reach a wide audience, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Prof Yunus urges WB to view Bangladesh through lens of progress, not geography He said the core objective is to promote the culture of tolerance, harmony and friendship. Archbishop Randall also invited the Chief Adviser to Rome in September to attend an event at the Fratelli tutti foundation. Chief Adviser Prof Yunus thanked the Archbishop for his invitations. "It's a big event. I wish you all the best."  He also conveyed his well wishes to the new Pope.

Marking the World Youth Skills Day, the European Union (EU) on Tuesday said they celebrate the energy, creativity, and potential of young people across Bangladesh. “On this World Youth Skills Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to leaving no young person behind. Skills change lives. Let’s build the future together,” said the EU Embassy in Dhaka in a message marking the day. Through their budget support programme, the EU said they are working with the government of Bangladesh to strengthen the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system, making it more inclusive and future-ready. “The EU is proud to stand with Bangladesh in empowering its youth through skills, mobility, and opportunity,” said the EU Embassy in Dhaka. With the Talent Partnership Project, the EU supports skills development aligned with labour market needs both at home and abroad, creating new pathways to employment for Bangladeshi youth. Through Erasmus+, the EU said, they continue to open doors for young Bangladeshis to study, train, and connect with Europe, building global skills and lifelong friendships. July 15, 2025 marks the 10th anniversary since World Youth Skills Day (WYSD). This year’s theme focuses on Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills. In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared July 15 as World Youth Skills Day, to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship. EU delays retaliatory tariffs on US goods, aims for deal by August 1 As the Fourth Industrial Revolution reshapes economies through Artificial Intelligence (AI), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must evolve to equip youth with future-ready skills, said the United Nations, noting that, “AI is transforming how we live, learn and work - but it also poses serious risks if not implemented equitably.”    

Representatives of the Japanese Embassy in Dhaka - first secretary Karasawa Shinju and second secretary Makiguchi Yasuyuki on Tuesday visited Gaibandha district and attended the inauguration ceremony of the ‘Project for Procurement of Eye Care Equipment for SKS Eye Hospital.’ The project is expected to provide eye care services at low costs to low-income as well as vulnerable people in Gaibandha and adjacent Districts, and also strengthen the medical service system in the targeted areas. “I hope this project will contribute to improving the eye care services in Gaibandha, and other nearby districts, and help people minimize their sufferings in eye-related sickness,” said Karasawa. Japan has supported 221 NGO projects through GGHSP since 1989, with the view to enhancing economic and social human security in the grass-roots levels, said the Embassy in a media release on Tuesday. The total sum of these GGHSP grants extended to approximately USD 17.5 million.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has urged the World Bank not to view Bangladesh merely as a 'geographical boundary', stating that the Bangladeshi economy is much bigger than that. "If Bangladesh prospers, the whole South Asian region will prosper. If we separate ourselves, we are not progressing. We need to develop our international trade facilities and transport. We have an ocean. It is an important part of our economy," he said. Newly appointed World Bank Vice President for South Asia Johannes Zutt, accompanied by World Bank’s new Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, Jean Pesme, called on the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna late Monday. He expressed strong support for Bangladesh's inclusive growth and appreciated Prof Yunus for the Interim Government's reform agenda in the economic sector, said the Chief Adviser's press wing on Tuesday. During their discussion, Zutt shared his deep affection for Bangladesh, recalling his previous tenure as the World Bank's country director for Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal from 2013 to 2015. "Kudos to you and your fantastic team for doing a good job," he said, acknowledging the interim government's efforts under Professor Yunus' leadership, particularly in addressing "some very challenging issues in the financial sector". World Bank to continue support to Bangladesh projects: Finance adviser He added, "We are very much prepared to continue our journey and share the ambition of the people of Bangladesh." He paid tribute to the students who lost their lives in the July Uprising last year, calling it "a very moving moment for everyone who is connected with Bangladesh." The Chief Adviser thanked him for his support and appreciation. "When we assumed the office, it was like a catastrophic zone, like a place after an earthquake. We didn’t have any experience. Yet, all the development partners supported us. And it helped us a lot; it made us confident,"he said. Prof Yunus highlighted the role of the youth in the July Uprising and said, “They showed this nation a dream of building a new Bangladesh." He said, "What our young people did last July was historic; especially our girls and women played a significant role. We are observing July Women’s Day today. Their sacrifices must not go in vain. Young people are the focal point of our country. We need to concentrate on young people and match their ambition." "Most countries are short on young people, so we told them to bring their factories here. We will provide the essentials for industries to make a production hub," said Prof Yunus. World Bank to provide $30 mln more for Bangladesh’s power transmission network

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy has expressed optimism that the next national election in Bangladesh will be inclusive with the participation of citizens, noting that the government is getting prepared for holding "free and fair" polls in the country.  "I'm confident that the Election Commission is going to do a great job. That's clearly their intention. So, hopefully, it will be as inclusive as possible," she said while responding to a question.  Talking to a small group journalists, including the UNB correspondent, Ambassador Masdupuy said it (inclusivity) all depends on the way it will be prepared. "Of course, we all know about the banning of the activities of one historical party of Bangladesh," Ambassador Masdupuy said, noting that "until this (political) organisation reforms itself, apologises and some of its leaders being tried, we understand it will be very difficult for them to participate in any election.  So, she added, inclusivity will involve the participation of the citizens and the support for as many political parties, including the small ones and independent parties (candidates). "This will be more inclusive." In May, the government issued a gazette notification banning all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League and its affiliated organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) completes the trial of the party’s leaders and activists. EC moves to amend RPO ahead of general election The Ambassador said they are very happy that the interim government, under the wise leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, has been engaging and committing itself to prepare the scene to hold "free and fair" elections. She said they will support that efforts, including, if possible, by sending international, European observers because it is very important for Bangladesh to have this being dealt with very nicely and peacefully. Fakhrul alleges political plot to derail election using Mitford murder Chief Adviser Prof Yunus has already directed the law-enforcment agencies to complete all preparations by December this year for the upcoming parliamentary elections, likely to be held in February or April next year. On Sunday evening, Ambassador Masdupuy said democracy is about ‘liberty, equality, fraternity and inclusivity’, and noted that the country is now heading towards 'truly democratic elections’ under the ‘wise and remarkable’ leadership of Prof Yunus. “The road is paved with many obstacles but courage and determination will no doubt allow removing them,” she said. Talks on Airbus  Responding to a question on Airbus purchase, Ambassador Masdupuy said the discussions are still going on. "No, it's not stopped." The interim government is considering new purchases of Boeing aircraft from the United States as part of Bangladesh’s strategy to reduce the trade gap and avert the impact of a steep 35 percent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump which will be effective from August 1. "We want a fair and level playing field for everybody. And we think your national carrier needs to have both Airbus and Boeing in its fleet," she said, noting that it will provide the most diverse offer to the passengers of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.  In June, Airbus Executive Vice President Wouter van Wersch called on Chief Adviser Prof Yunus in London and said, “We have identified Bangladesh as a key priority country." Van Wersch said Airbus, which supplies 800 aircraft annually, also has expertise in manufacturing helicopters and fighter jets. Complete preparations by Dec for peaceful election: Prof Yunus to law enforcers Van Wersch said if Bangladesh decides to add Airbus to the Biman fleet, 85 per cent of the funding could be arranged through Export Credit Agency (ECA) financing. Relationship Remains Positive  Ambassador Masdupuy said they are very supportive of the current transition of the interim government, and they are keen to engage more with the government. "So, we understand that we need to be patient because of the review which is being done about many projects," she said, noting that they want to see them being more quickly implemented. "Our relationship is very good. It remains always very positive. We are engaged in all sorts of cooperation with Bangladesh, and we wish to see more," said the French envoy. The Ambassador reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development and strategic autonomy and announced upcoming cooperation in space technology, helping enhance Bangladesh`s sovereign capacity to monitor climate change through satellite data.