United News of Bangladesh

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin on Sunday said a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Bangladesh and Thailand could play a major role in strengthening maritime and logistics connectivity to boost bilateral trade and investment. He said this during a meeting with Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh, Thitiporn Chirasawadi, at his office in the afternoon. The adviser stressed the need for expanding existing trade ties and effectively utilising sea routes to enhance cooperation between the two countries. Bashir said Bangladesh is offering a favourable investment climate for foreign investors, adding that Thai businesses can explore opportunities in pharmaceuticals, shrimp, furniture and the tourism industry. Such investments, he said, would benefit both nations. Reiterating the commitment to work together on strengthening maritime connectivity, the adviser said an FTA would help increase the bilateral trade volume. The Thai envoy highlighted the importance of launching a direct maritime trade route between Ranong Port and Chittagong Port for the first time, alongside advancing the proposed Thailand–Bangladesh FTA. She said using Ranong Port in western Thailand could significantly reduce both shipping time and costs. Currently, goods shipped from Thailand to Bangladesh take around 14–15 days, whereas the western sea route would shorten the travel time to 4–7 days, she added. Similarly, shipments from Chittagong would reach Thai and neighbouring ports more quickly. Additional Secretary (Export) Md Abdur Rahim Khan and the Minister Counsellor of the Thai Embassy were also present in the meeting.

Norwegian Ambassador to Bangladesh Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen on Sunday emphasised that digital spaces are now central to political engagement and must be safe for women’s participation and said women’s political participation is essential for inclusive democracy. “Women’s political participation is essential for inclusive democracy, sustainable development and lasting peace. When women are silenced - whether through digital harassment, character attacks, threats, or physical violence - entire societies lose out,” said the Ambassador while speaking at a dialogue. The dialogue laid emphasis on exploring how they can strengthen legal protections, promote digital safety, hold perpetrators accountable and empower women to participate in politics without fear. The Royal Norwegian Embassy and the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, in collaboration with UN Women, hosted the high-level dialogue titled ‘Power Without Fear: Ending Digital and Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Politics’ as part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence (GBV) campaign under the theme ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls’. The event convened political party representatives, young women leaders, civil society, academics, journalists, gender experts, development partners and diplomats to address the current threats women face in political life. Held at the Norwegian Residence, the dialogue focused on how digital violence has emerged as a modern barrier to democratic participation. As Bangladesh approaches its national elections, women engaged in political activities find themselves increasingly targets of online harassment, intimidation, gendered misinformation, and coordinated smear campaigns that often extend into real-world harm. Ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh Reto Renggli underscored that preventing gender-based violence is not only a crucial issue in general, but also especially relevant in view of the upcoming elections in Bangladesh.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Sunday stressed the need for stronger trade, energy and economic ties between Bangladesh and Azerbaijan. He discussed the issues when Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva, daughters of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, called on him at the State Guest House Jamuna. This marked the first visit to Bangladesh by the daughters of the Azerbaijani President. During the meeting, they discussed ways to deepen cultural, environmental, and people-to-people exchanges between the two friendly nations, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad. Prof Yunus recalled his many visits to Baku and his meeting with President Aliyev during the COP29 summit late last year.  

The weavers’ neighborhood near Dhaka is filled with the familiar clatter of handlooms, where artisans use colorful silk and cotton threads to create the iconic Tangail saree. The traditional handloom saree takes its name from this central Bangladesh district, home to hundreds of weaver families. The garment is widely viewed as a cultural symbol of the country and is proudly worn during festivals and weddings across the Indian subcontinent.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) signed a letter of endorsement on Saturday in Chattogram, agreeing to deepen their support for Bangladesh’s judicial reform efforts. Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed presided over the ceremony. This reflects Australia government and UNDP’s commitment to continue working together for the country’s justice sector through the Judicial Reform Support initiative. A formal agreement will be signed soon. Under this initiative, activities aligned with Bangladesh's national priorities and the Chief Justice’s reform roadmap will be supported. The programme aims to strengthen judicial independence through transparent and merit-based processes, enhancing operational efficiency through digital systems, and improved case management. It also focuses on building institutional capacity and strong monitoring systems; promoting inclusive justice delivery through gender-responsive and human rights-based approaches; and expanding public engagement to strengthen people’s trust in the system. Speaking at the event, Clinton Pobke, Deputy High Commissioner of Australia to Bangladesh said, “Our strong partnership and shared commitment to advancing democratic governance, transparency, the rule of law, and inclusive institutions in Bangladesh is reaffirmed. The Judicial Reform Support initiative is fully aligned with Australia’s strategic priorities.” He added that through this continuous collaboration with UNDP, we are promoting effective development, strengthening inclusive governance and human rights, advancing the 2030 Agenda, and supporting resilient and innovative approaches to justice sector reform.” Stefan Liller, Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh, welcomed the strengthened collaboration. “This initiative reflects our shared vision for a justice system that delivers for all people fairly, efficiently, and transparently. UNDP is committed to supporting Bangladesh in building modern, inclusive, and accountable institutions. Our partnership with Australia embodies the belief that democratic governance and human rights lies at the heart of sustainable development. Together, we look forward to supporting reforms that improve access to justice and strengthen the rule of law.” Both Australia and UNDP endorsed their commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s long-term governance and development priorities, noting that judicial reform is essential to strengthening public trust, empowering citizens, and enabling equitable growth.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangladesh, in partnership with the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, organised a regional dialogue in Chattogram on Saturday in Chattogram to advance the implementation of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Ordinance 2025. The newly adopted ordinance provides a strengthened legal framework to enhance the country’s human rights protection system. The consultation brought together government representatives, human rights defenders, lawyers, civil society organisations, youth advocates, and development partners. Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said this Ordinance provides a strong foundation for an empowered National Human Rights Commission. "Reform on paper is only the beginning. Its implementation will be the true test.” He further added, “Once operationalised under the new Ordinance, the NHRC can play a critical role during the upcoming political transition.” The new NHRC Ordinance strengthens the Commission’s independence, expands its powers, and reflects insights from over 600 voices consulted nationwide, including human rights victims, activists, experts, and government representatives. Participants in the dialogue aimed to agree to collaborate in implementing the Ordinance over the next 12 to 18 months. They called on government agencies, civil society, media, and communities to work together to monitor and support the timely appointment of Commissioners, advocate for parliamentary ratification, help citizens understand how to seek assistance from the NHRC, and ensure that the Commission remains independent, accessible, and accountable to the people.

Reiterating India's support for an inclusive nation, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Saturday evening said they are confident that the reality of their 'interdependence and mutual benefit' will continue to keep driving the relationship between Bangladesh and India forward. "I am confident that we will work together to fulfil the aspirations of our people and forge closer people-to-people ties, inspired by our shared sacrifices of the past and guided by our new aspirations for the future," he said. The High Commissioner made the remarks while speaking at a function commemorating the 'Maitri Diwas' (Friendship Day) at the Old India House in the city. Freedom fighters, cultural activists, civil society members and journalists were present.  High Commissioner Verma said India stood by the people of Bangladesh in 1971 and will continue to support them, in realising  the vision for a 'democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive' nation. The celebration marked the anniversary of Maitri Diwas - the day when 54 years ago, India recognised Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign nation. There are many historical moments in India's support to Bangladesh during the Liberation War.  "But 6th of December 1971 stands out as a particularly special date. What is most remarkable about this day is that India's recognition of Bangladesh came ten days before Bangladesh actually got liberated," said High Commissioner Verma. He said this date is a milestone in the history of the two countries that cannot be erased. This date marks the beginning of a relationship based on empathy and trust that has sustained, despite changes, and occasional challenges and ups and downs, he said. "This day showcases the pride with which people of India stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the courageous brothers and sisters of Bangladesh in their struggle for freedom," said High Commissioner Verma.

Bangladesh, Sweden and Ukraine have joined hands through the Grain from Ukraine initiative, aimed at strengthening food assistance for Rohingya families in Cox’s Bazar. At a ceremony at World Food Programme's Modhurchara Logistics Hub in Ukhiya upazila, Cox’s Bazar, on  Wednesday, 3,000 metric tonnes of sunflower oil  were handed over under the initiative for the Rohingya response led by the Government with the support of WFP and other humanitarian partners. The Grain from Ukraine (GfU) initiative is a humanitarian food programme launched by the Government of Ukraine in 2022, with the goal of making Ukrainian food commodities available for WFP’s crisis responses with international support, said a press release on Friday. The sunflower oil for the Rohingya was produced in Ukraine, with procurement and transportation costs – amounting to USD 7 million – covered by the Government of Sweden. The event was attended by Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC); AK.M. Mohiuddin Kayes, Director, South Asia Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs , Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine;  Nicolas Weeks, Ambassador of Sweden; and Simone Parchment, WFP Bangladesh Country Director, ad interim; along with Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet, Ambassador of France, whose government also funds the Initiative. “I express my sincere appreciation to Sweden and Ukraine for this critical contribution,” said Md. Mostafizur Rahman. “Your support is deeply meaningful for the Rohingya response. It will significantly strengthen food assistance for the Rohingya populationand reflects a partnership built on humanity, compassion, and shared global responsibility,” he said. “This event underscores a shared humanitarian conviction – one that unites Ukraine, Sweden, France, WFP and the Government of Bangladesh in supporting communities who have endured immense hardship,” Mohammed Mizanur Rahman. “Today’s donation is not only a timely humanitarian gesture but also a genuine express of friendship and solidarity towards the Rohingya,” said A.K.M. Mohiuddin Kayes, Director,South Asia Wing, MoFA. Following the ceremony, delegates visited a WFP food distribution outlet, where the sunflower oil and other commodities are distributed through WFP’s e-voucher system. With a full monthly entitlement of USD 12 per person, families can choose their preferred items at any of the 19 e- voucher outlets in the camps. In addition to staple foods, they can also access fresh food,including seasonal vegetables, fish and poultry sourced from the local markets, including those supplied by smallholder farmers in host communities in Cox’s Bazar. “I thank Sweden and other partners for supporting the Grain from Ukraine initiative and express my admiration to the Government of Bangladesh for its leadership in addressing the humanitarian needs of the Rohingya community,” said Dr Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine.  “I also commend WFP and all humanitarian actors for their critical work. The food assistance we saw is an exemplary programme that meets not only basic needs but also respects dignity.” "Together, we must keep the world’s attention on the Rohingya crisis and ensure continued support.” said Nicolas Weeks, Ambassador of Sweden. “This partnership demonstrates that solidarity is not an idea – it is action. Through that action, the Grain from Ukraine initiative strengthens food security for Rohingya refugees, supports Ukrainian farmers whose livelihoods are under threat, and helps stabilize global food supply chains.” “The unwavering commitments of Ukraine to humanitarian needs around the world, along with Sweden’s generous support, is a powerful testament to global solidarity,” said Simone Parchment, WFP Bangladesh Country Director, ad interim. “Let this contribution inspire others to step forward – because together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and bring hope to vulnerable communities in the Rohingya camps and beyond.” Swedish-funded Ukrainian sunflower oil reaches Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar In its ninth year, the Rohingya response faces severe challenges, including a sharp decline in funding. To meet the basic needs of nearly 1.2 million people in 2026, WFP’s Rohingya operation faces a USD 172 million funding gap for its lifesaving food and nutrition assistance.  

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) on Friday handed over the much-discussed Indian pregnant woman, Sonali Khatun, and her minor son to the Border Security Force (BSF) followed by a request from Indian High Commission. The transfer took place at 7:30 pm at the Sonamashjid ICP in Chapainawabganj after a formal flag meeting in this regard, said a media release issued by Lt. Col Golam Kibria, commander of the Mohananda Battalion. Earlier, Indian High Commission in Dhaka made a request to hand over her while the Ministry of Home Affairs extended support. The transfer was carried out considering the humanitarian risks faced by Sonali Khatun and her child. Bangladeshi youth killed in BSF firing along Patgram border The government, the Home Ministry, and the BGB completed the process in a safe, dignified, and transparent way, respecting humanitarian values and international law, according to the release. The 35-week pregnant Sonali along with two minor children was among six Indian nationals forcibly pushed into Bangladesh by the BSF on June 25 this year through Kurigram border.  

Celebrating cinematic diversity and creativity, the European Union (EU) in Bangladesh has launched a four-day 'European Film Festival 2025', which began Thursday evening at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy Auditorium. EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller and German Ambassador to Bangladesh Rudiger Lots, among others, spoke at the opening ceremony.  Under the theme 'In Transition', Ambassador Miller said the festival highlights the stories of personal, societal and environmental change.  "It is a theme that resonates strongly with Bangladesh today," he said. “Over the next four days, we will present a compelling selection of European and Bangladeshi films that reflect our shared love for cinema and our commitment to cultural dialogue," said Ambassador Miller, adding that this festival is not only about watching films, but also about connecting communities, inspiring young creators, and celebrating the values that unite them. German Ambassador Lotz highly appreciated the initiative aiming to use films as a powerful mode of social and cultural interaction.