United News of Bangladesh

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has said UNDP, United Nations' lead agency on international development, should work in integration of technology in Bangladesh especially the ethical use of the AI, help in tackling misinformation and disinformation. She also said Bangladesh, as proponent of SAARC, wants to revitalise its activities and urged UNDP to spread its young political delegates programme with the SAARC countries and engage women entrepreneurs. Opposition plays ‘very cooperative role’ in Parliament: Speaker tells UNDP Resident Representative The issues were discussed when Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh Stefan Liller met the State Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday. The discussion also touched upon continued collaboration with UNDP on issues related to LDC graduation, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the meeting, Liller, who is coming to the end of his tenure, reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to working closely with the new government of Bangladesh. While expressing thanks to UNDP for its role in support of the country’s general elections by providing technical assistance, among others, in registering 5.8 million new voters, the State Minister urged UNDP to support the government’s “Bangladesh First” vision and expressed the government’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with UNDP to achieve desired socio-economic goals for its people. The State Minister acknowledged the work carried out by the UNDP over the years working closely with the government in improving governance, trade, commerce and investment, climate action and adaptation, poverty alleviation etc.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Monday laid emphasis on joint efforts to strengthen renewable energy cooperation and set a certain exemplary model for green development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). “I'm confident that with joint efforts, China-Bangladesh renewable energy cooperation will yield more fruitful results and a certain exemplary model for green development under the BRI,” he said while speaking at the 4th Bangladesh-China Renewable Energy Forum in the city. Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood spoke as the chief guest at the Forum organised by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun spoke as a special guest at the event moderated by CPD Research Director Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem. The Ambassador highlighted the importance of working together to deliver tangible benefits to the people through practical cooperation, contribute to addressing global climate change, and build a community with a shared future for both countries. Ambassador Yao said it is high time for Bangladesh to really move to renewable energy. “It is also high time for China and Bangladesh to work together in this sector.” The Chinese envoy said they all know what is happening in the Middle East while they see some diplomatic efforts. “But no one knows when the conflict will be over and when the supply of oil and gas will be resumed.” He said the government of Bangladesh has already taken many initiatives  to come to the rescue and to relieve the difficulties faced by the people, factories and businesspeople. “They have done everything possible. They also asked for China’s help. We also do whatever we could.” The Ambassador, however, said it is just a short respite effort and if Bangladesh really wants to get rid of this, there needs to be a systematic solution. “And China will be part of it.” Looking forward, the Ambassador said China is ready to deepen cooperation and scale up investment and financial support through diversified financial channels. He said China will provide long-term, stable and preferential financial support for key renewable energy projects in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh-China Renewable Energy Forum has, over the past editions, emerged as an important policy dialogue platform bringing together key stakeholders from government, private sector, development partners, and international investors, particularly from China. The initiative is aimed at fostering mutual understanding, strengthening cooperation, and facilitating informed dialogue on Bangladesh’s renewable energy transition. Developing renewable energy is not only a strategic choice for Bangladesh to ensure energy security and strengthen export competitiveness, but also a priority area for Bangladesh-China cooperation that echoes the times and serves the well-being of both peoples, said Ambassador Yao. He said China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership through renewable energy cooperation, and support Bangladesh in realizing its vision of national prosperity and sustainable development. According to International Energy Agency data, global energy investment reached 3.3 trillion US dollars in 2025, among which 2.2 trillion US dollars are invested in clean energy. Over the past decade, China’s share in global clean energy investment has risen from 25% to nearly 33%. Three Strategic Implications Boasting of the world’s largest installed solar and wind power capacity, prominent full-chain cost advantages and a sound policy framework, Ambassador Yao said China has forged a distinctive path of energy transition and is willing to share experience and development opportunities with Bangladesh. Recently, the ongoing Middle East conflicts have intensified global energy market volatility and supply chain risks, posing severe challenges to global energy security. The envoy said Bangladesh is highly reliant on imported fossil fuels, with a high proportion of oil and gas consumption and low renewable energy penetration. Accelerating energy transition is not only an urgent task, but also embraces broad prospects and huge potential, he said. Ambassador Yao said renewable energy development carries three 'strategic implications' for Bangladesh. First, to safeguard national energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuel imports, hedge against global price fluctuations, and enhance economic resilience. Second, to sharpen core export competitiveness, help pillar industries such as textiles and garments meet international green supply chain standards, stabilize global market shares, and drive industrial upgrading. Third, to advance green and low-carbon development, boost employment, attract foreign investment, foster the domestic clean energy industry, and advance carbon neutrality and sustainable development goals. The Ambassador said China-Bangladesh renewable energy cooperation boasts of solid foundations and fruitful outcomes. Areas of Future Cooperation First, the Ambassador highlighted the importance of strengthening policy coordination and experience sharing. "Having gradually shifted from feed-in tariff subsidies to grid parity, China has established an effective policy system for the photovoltaic industry," he said, noting that China is ready to assist Bangladesh in improving electricity pricing mechanisms and power purchase agreements, and shore up long-term investment confidence through stable policy expectations. Secondly, he talked about deepening industrial and technological collaboration. "As the world’s leading manufacturer of photovoltaic modules and wind power equipment, China delivers cost-effective and highly adaptable products that can substantially lower construction costs in Bangladesh," Ambassador Yao said. He said Chinese enterprises are ready to jointly build assembly lines for photovoltaic modules and energy storage batteries, promote technology transfer, talent training and local manufacturing, so as to cut import dependence and create jobs. Highlighting the importance of boosting investment and financing support, the Ambassador said they will also assist Bangladesh in cooperating with multilateral institutions including the IMF, the World Bank and the ADB, to improve project bankability and attractiveness, and effectively address funding bottlenecks in energy transition. "As developing nations with similar development priorities, China and Bangladesh enjoy enormous room for cooperation," said Ambassador Yao. He said China always respects Bangladesh’s development path and energy strategy, upholds win-win cooperation with no political strings attached, and remains a reliable development partner for Bangladesh.

The European Union (EU) is providing €175 000 in humanitarian funding to support efforts to prevent measles in Bangladesh. This funding will benefit communities in Barisal, Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Rangpur, Mymensingh, said the EU Embassy in Dhaka on Monday. This EU funding will be provided to the Bangladesh Red Crescent to facilitate and sustain ongoing vaccinations’ campaigns and carry out other prevention activities, such as distributing hygiene kits. The most vulnerable families will also receive cash grants to help them face illness-related costs, such as transport to health centres or loss of income due to caring responsibilities. It is also foreseen the delivery of medical equipment to healthcare facilities. The funding is part of the EU’s overall contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The EU remains a leading humanitarian donor in Bangladesh. In 2026, the EU is providing more than €23 million already allocated this year for humanitarian partners in the country. This includes €16.4 million in humanitarian aid to provide life-saving assistance to Rohingya refugees living in the country, mostly in Cox’s Bazar, as well as the host communities; while €7 million is dedicated to support disaster preparedness, and disaster risk reduction and resilience efforts in Bangladesh. The EU and its Member States are the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid. Relief assistance is an expression of European solidarity with people in need all around the world. It aims to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering, and safeguard the integrity and human dignity of populations affected by natural disasters and man-made crises. The EU is signatory to a €12 million humanitarian delegation agreement with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support the Federation’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF)

Bangladesh has urged the United States to ensure the safety and security of Bangladeshi citizens and students staying there, following the killing of two Bangladeshi students. “The Embassy is in regular contact with the US Department of State and has requested that the safety of Bangladeshi students and Bangladeshis living in the United States be ensured,” the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington said on Sunday. The Embassy is also maintaining communication with mainstream media outlets in the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) is also in close contact with relevant US agencies regarding the matter. The government has expressed deep condolences over the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice through close cooperation with all concerned authorities. Immediately after receiving reports that two Bangladeshi students - Zamil Ahmed Limon and Nahida Sultana Bristy, both enrolled at the University of South Florida - had gone missing, the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, DC, and the Bangladesh Consulate General in Miami established continuous contact with US authorities, university officials, and investigative agencies. Due to current constraints in transporting the body from Tampa, Florida via Dubai, alternative arrangements are being actively explored, the MoFA said. At the same time, the Embassy is maintaining regular contact with US authorities to gather further information regarding Nahida Sultana Bristy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka, along with the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, DC, and the Consulate General in Miami, remains in constant communication with the bereaved families. Dhaka Seeks Justice Earlier, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Bangladesh wants the United States to investigate the brutal killings of two Bangladeshi students - Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy - and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. “We demand a prompt and thorough investigation into the matter so that those involved are identified and brought to justice,” she told reporters at the Ministry on Sunday, describing the double murder as deeply unfortunate. Bangladesh seeks justice over brutal killings of 2 students in US The State Minister said she personally spoke on Saturday with Nahida’s brother and Limon’s father. “We are in contact with all the relevant agencies including the Bangladesh Mission in Washington, the US Department of State, and the FBI. We have spoken to both families and will provide all possible cooperation from our side,” she said. Shama Obaed said once the autopsy and necessary legal procedures are completed, Limon’s remains will be repatriated to Bangladesh as soon as possible. The State Minister also said that the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment is assisting in the matter. “We are maintaining close communication with all stakeholders in the United States,” she added The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office conveyed its sincere condolences over the tragic incident involving the two Bangladeshi students of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, he said. They also informed that they will coordinate the next steps in this regard directly with the next of kin and advised the Bangladesh Mission to speak with the families about any needs they may have. At this time, they are not able to disclose any information regarding the evidence collected as this remains an active criminal investigation. “We will continue to closely monitor the latest developments and share updates as appropriate,” said Moez Limayem. A suspect is in custody in connection with the case. He is facing multiple charges, and additional charges may be added as the investigation continues. Investigators say this is an isolated incident that occurred off campus; the suspect acted alone, and there is no ongoing threat to the safety of the university community. Zamil had attended USF since fall 2024 to study Geography and Environmental Science and Policy, and Nahida had attended USF since fall 2025 to study Chemical Engineering. Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, is facing two counts of first-degree premeditated murder with a weapon in the deaths of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, students at USF, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. He made an initial court appearance on Saturday in Tampa, where he was ordered to be held without bond. A hearing is set for April 28, reports AP. Abugharbieh, a native-born U.S. citizen, was initially taken into custody on Friday at his family’s home on preliminary charges that include unlawfully moving a dead body, failure to report a death, tampering with evidence, false imprisonment, and battery. Online court records do not list an attorney for him. Messages were sent via email and phone to the public defender’s office in Hillsborough County.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke has said education is a cornerstone of the partnership between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom (UK). “Strong educational links and collaboration between academia and industry will help build the skilled workforce Bangladesh needs for the future,” she said. While speaking at a function, the High Commissioner said it is highly encouraging to see the remarkable talent and ambition demonstrated by students in Bangladesh, who are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully on the global stage. The ‘Grand Finale of the Business Case Competition’ 2026, jointly organised by HSBC and BRAC University, was held at the Multipurpose Hall of BRAC University, marking the conclusion of one of the country’s most prestigious and anticipated undergraduate business competitions. Now in its 14th year, the competition has engaged over 70,000 students to date and provided 44 students with the opportunity to represent Bangladesh at the international stage in Hong Kong, accompanied by their coaches, said a media release on Sunday. This year’s competition witnessed an impressive participation of over 1600 students from 46 universities across Bangladesh, making it one of the most competitive editions to date. After progressing through multiple rigorous rounds, the top teams advanced to the finale, where they presented strategic solutions to a real-world business case before an esteemed panel of judges. President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Mahmud Hasan Khan spoke as special guest. He said competitions like this are essential in preparing the next generation of leaders for Bangladesh’s evolving economic landscape. “As industries, particularly the ready-made garment sector continues to adapt to global demands, we need young minds who can think critically, innovate responsibly, and deliver practical solutions. Platforms like this are instrumental in building future talent.” Following a highly competitive finale, Team Six Seven, from Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) emerged as the Champion, while Team Arctic Wolves from North South University (NSU) and Team Rotten MARS from Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) secured the positions of 1st and 2nd Runner-up respectively. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Bangladesh Md Mahbub ur Rahman said true competitiveness in today’s rapidly evolving global economy requires a seamless blend of local insight and international standards. “Through this competition, we also aim to bridge the gap between academic brilliance and real-world application. This is not just challenging students to solve business cases; we are equipping them with the global mindset necessary to compete and lead in any boardroom internationally,” he said.

Chief observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) Ivars Ijabs on Sunday shared a final report with Bangladesh including recommendations for improving future elections. He met Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, and presented the mission’s final report and recommendations. The final report is based on a long-term, independent observation of the electoral process across all 64 districts of Bangladesh, while the 19 recommendations offered by the EU EOM aim at reinforcing the integrity of future elections, officials told UNB. The Chief Observer expressed hope that those recommendations will be considered by all relevant stakeholders, including Bangladesh Parliament. The Chief Observer, the Head of EU Delegation to Bangladesh, Ambassador Michael Miller and the Speaker of the Parliament also discussed the new avenues for cooperation between the EU and Bangladesh that has opened and the support the EU is ready to offer in the implementation of these recommendations. The Chief observer is scheduled to hold a press conference on Tuesday at a city hotel. The EU EOM has been present in Bangladesh since the end of 2025 and on election day - February 22 - comprised 223 international observers, drawn from all EU Member States, as well as Canada, Norway and Switzerland, deployed across all 64 administrative districts. The EU EOM presented the mission's preliminary statement on the 12 February parliamentary elections on February 14. The 2026 parliamentary elections were described as "credible and competently managed, marking a pivotal step" towards restoring democratic governance and rule of law. "This historic contest was genuinely competitive, with fundamental freedoms broadly respected. The electoral legal framework largely accords with international standards, while the Bangladesh Election Commission worked independently and transparently, maintaining the confidence of stakeholders and lending integrity to the polls,” said Chief Observer Ijabs. Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Saturday said last week they saw the 'initialling' of the new Bangladesh-EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). "And this coming week sees the return visit of our Chief Observer from our Election Observation Mission, as well as the holding of EU Bangladesh diplomatic consultations," said the Ambassador in a video shared by the EU Embassy, marking the 600th day in Bangladesh for him and his family in Bangladesh. Ambassador Miller said he will also speak at events dealing with human rights and judicial reforms. 
"And next week, I'm looking forward to travelling by train from Dhaka to the beautiful region of Sreemangal," he said.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday said Bangladesh expects its vessels including MV Banglar Joyjatra to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. “We expect all ships, including MV Banglar Joyjatra, to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. The energy ministry (Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry) will know better,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while responding to a question. On April 21, the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka said it will continue its efforts to facilitate the safe passage of Bangladeshi vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and has also facilitate the safe evacuation of 186 Bangladeshi nationals from Iran via Azerbaijan. The Embassy, in a press statement, called upon all concerned to refrain from any actions or statements that may create misperceptions, and to uphold the spirit of mutual respect that governs the enduring ties between the two brotherly nations. Iran reiterates its firm commitment to strengthening the close and amicable relations between the two nations.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday said Bangladesh wants the United States to investigate the brutal killings of two Bangladeshi students - Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy - and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. “We demand a prompt and thorough investigation into the matter so that those involved are identified and brought to justice,” she said, describing the double murder as deeply unfortunate. The State Minister said she personally spoke on Saturday with Nahida’s brother and Limon’s father. “We are in contact with all the relevant agencies including the Bangladesh Mission in Washington, the US Department of State, and the FBI. We have spoken to both families and will provide all possible cooperation from our side,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Shama Obaed said once the autopsy and necessary legal procedures are completed, Limon’s remains will be repatriated to Bangladesh as soon as possible. The State Minister also said that the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment is assisting in the matter. “We are maintaining close communication with all stakeholders in the United States,” she added University of South Florida authorities have informed that both students had health insurance through their student status that includes repatriation coverage. The University of South Florida is opening a case, as per the instructions of the insurance company’s contact, said Golam Mortoza, Minister (Press) at the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, on Sunday. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office conveyed its sincere condolences over the tragic incident involving the two Bangladeshi students of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, he said. They also informed that they will coordinate the next steps in this regard directly with the next of kin and advised the Bangladesh Mission to speak with the families about any needs they may have. At this time, they are not able to disclose any information regarding the evidence collected as this remains an active criminal investigation. “We will continue to closely monitor the latest developments and share updates as appropriate,” said Moez Limayem. A suspect is in custody in connection with the case. He is facing multiple charges, and additional charges may be added as the investigation continues. Investigators say this is an isolated incident that occurred off campus; the suspect acted alone, and there is no ongoing threat to the safety of the university community. Zamil had attended USF since fall 2024 to study Geography and Environmental Science and Policy, and Nahida had attended USF since fall 2025 to study Chemical Engineering. Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, is facing two counts of first-degree premeditated murder with a weapon in the deaths of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, students at USF, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. He made an initial court appearance on Saturday in Tampa, where he was ordered to be held without bond. A hearing is set for April 28, reports AP. Abugharbieh, a native-born U.S. citizen, was initially taken into custody on Friday at his family’s home on preliminary charges that include unlawfully moving a dead body, failure to report a death, tampering with evidence, false imprisonment, and battery. Online court records do not list an attorney for him. Messages were sent via email and phone to the public defender’s office in Hillsborough County.

Bangladeshi diplomats at the United Nations (UN), particularly in Geneva, are actively engaged to promote and realise the agenda and vision of the newly elected government to the global community through multilateral diplomacy, said the Bangladesh Mission in Geneva. Bangladeshi diplomats are establishing a strong and proactive presence at all UN Offices and Agencies, moving beyond traditional diplomacy to influence global policy on peace, climate change and sustainable development, it said. Their efforts and hard work, often termed as "proactive diplomacy," is significantly elevating Bangladesh's voice in international discourse.

Despite ongoing efforts by multiple agencies, preventing human trafficking in the Rohingya camps remains a significant challenge, experts said at a workshop organised by BRAC. Participants mentioned that trafficking survivors often face barriers in accessing justice. Key challenges include weak evidence management, the high vulnerability of displaced Rohingya communities, heavy workloads on police, frequent transfers of law enforcement personnel, difficulties in registering cases, and the informal settlement of serious crimes. The observations were shared at a workshop titled “Consultation, Learning and Reflection Workshop on Human Trafficking and Major Protection Issues,” organised by BRAC’s Humanitarian Crisis Management Programme (HCMP) at a hotel in Cox’s Bazar. The workshop aimed to strengthen coordination among the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and camp authorities, and to generate actionable recommendations. Rezaul Karim, Associate Director and Office In Charge (OIC) of HCMP, delivered the welcome remarks. According to the 2025 report by the Anti-Trafficking Working Group (ATWG), 33% of trafficking victims are women and girls, while 25% are under 18. The number of victims rose by 28.8% in 2025 compared to the previous year. BRAC reported that its HCMP Protection Sector has provided legal support to 784 trafficking survivors in host and Rohingya camps between 2017 and March 2026. Additionally, under the Humanitarian Development Coexistence (HDC) project, 400 Rohingya teachers, volunteers, and community leaders have received training through 18 skill development sessions to help prevent trafficking. A key presentation was delivered by Md. Tanvir Islam of BRAC’s HCMP Protection Sector on the trafficking context and legal framework. Fakhrul Hasan, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP, Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals) of the Armed Police Battalion (APBn), also highlighted operational challenges faced by law enforcement. Among those present were Tapti Chakma, Camp-in-Charge (Camp 17), Saleem Badsha from IOM, and representatives from UNHCR. Mohammed Saifur Rahman Siddique, Senior District Judge of the Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal-3, also spoke on the legal frameworks and judicial processes related to trafficking. The sessions were moderated by Mohaiminul Islam, Manager of Knowledge Management in the Protection Sector of HCMP, BRAC, and Naziyat Islam, Manager of Legal Protection at HCMP, BRAC. Over 60 participants, including representatives from international organisations and NGOs, attended the workshop.