United News of Bangladesh

Red baseball caps spoofing Donald Trump’s iconic MAGS hats have become a symbol of Danish and Greenlandic defiance against the U.S. president's threat to seize the frozen territory. The caps reading “Make America Go Away” — parodying Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan — have gained popularity along with several variants on social media and at public protests, including a weekend demonstration held in freezing weather in the Danish capital. European governments are rallying behind Denmark, citing the need to defend Arctic regions and warning that threats against Greenland undermine Western security. Protesters, however, are less diplomatic. “I want to show my support to Greenland and also show that I don’t like the president of the United States,” said 76-year-old Copenhagen resident Lars Hermansen, who wore one of the red caps at a protest Saturday. The mock hats were created by Copenhagen vintage clothing store owner Jesper Rabe Tonnesen. Early batches flopped last year — until the Trump administration recently escalated its rhetoric over Greenland. Now there are popping up everywhere. “When a delegation from America went up to Greenland, we started to realize this probably wasn’t a joke — it’s not reality TV, it’s actually reality,” said Tonnesen, 58. “So I said, OK, what can I do?” Can I communicate in a funny way with a good message and unite the Danes to show that Danish people support the people of Greenland?” Read More: Trump vows to impose Greenland tariffs as EU warns against threats Demand suddenly surged from a trickle to selling out in the space of one weekend. Tonnesen said he has now ordered “several thousand.” The original version designed by Tonnesen featured a play on words: “Nu det NUUK!” — a twist on the Danish phrase “Nu det nok,” meaning “Now it’s enough,” substituting Nuuk, Greenland’s tiny capital. Protesters at Saturday’s rally waved red-and-white Danish and Greenlandic flags and carried handmade signs mocking U.S. claims over the territory, which is slightly larger than Saudi Arabia. “No Means No,” read one sign. Another declared, “Make America Smart Again.” Wearing one of the spoof hats, protester Kristian Boye, 49, said the gathering in front of Copenhagen City Hall struck a lighthearted tone while delivering a serious message. “I’m here to support the Greenlanders, who are going through a very hard time right now,” he said. “They are being threatened with having their country invaded. I think it’s totally unacceptable.”

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has said Europe will not bow to pressure from US President Donald Trump, as European leaders rallied behind Greenland in response to Washington’s threat of tariffs over the autonomous Danish territory. Trump has warned he will impose new tariffs on eight US allies – Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the UK – from February if they oppose his plan to take control of Greenland. He has described the island as vital for US security and has not ruled out using force, triggering strong criticism across Europe. In a joint statement, the countries threatened with tariffs said Trump’s move could spark a “dangerous downward spiral” and undermine transatlantic relations. “We stand in full solidarity with the Kingdom of Denmark and the people of Greenland,” the statement said, stressing that Arctic security is a shared Nato interest and that sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. Writing on Facebook, Frederiksen said Europe wanted cooperation, not conflict, but would stand firm on its core values. “Europe will not be blackmailed,” she wrote. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he had spoken with Frederiksen, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte before holding talks with Trump. A Downing Street spokeswoman said Starmer made clear that Greenland’s security was a priority for all Nato members and that imposing tariffs on allies over collective security was wrong. Trump has threatened a 10 percent tariff on goods from the eight countries from February 1, with the possibility of raising it to 25 percent until a deal is reached. European leaders have warned the move would damage long-standing alliances, while public protests have already taken place in Denmark and Greenland against Trump’s takeover plan.   With inputs from BBC

Nordic embassies - Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway - in Dhaka came together on Thursday evening to mark Nordic Day 2026, under this year’s theme “Inclusive Societies, Stronger Together." Nordic Day commemorates the signing of the Helsinki Treaty in 1962, which laid the foundation for formal Nordic cooperation. It highlights the values that guide Nordic engagement globally: democracy, sustainability, gender equality, minority rights, inclusive societies, multilateral cooperation and international law. The celebration showcased the strength of Nordic cooperation and ongoing collaboration between the Nordic countries and Bangladesh in advancing inclusive development, and shared global goals. Young Nordic politicians observe Bangladesh’s election preparations Reflecting the shared commitment, they welcomed Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan as the chief guest. The event featured traditional Nordic cuisine, music, and provided a welcoming space for dialogue, cultural exchange and connection amongst guests.

Greenland’s people would choose Denmark over the United States if asked today, Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said, responding to renewed US pressure over the semi-autonomous island. Nielsen made the remark at a joint news conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, the strongest statement yet from Greenland since former US President Donald Trump revived plans to annex the island. Trump has claimed the US needs to “own” Greenland to counter Russia and China and suggested buying the territory, without ruling out force. Frederiksen condemned the “completely unacceptable pressure” from the US and warned that any military action could harm the trans-Atlantic NATO alliance. Greenland’s strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it important for missile early warning systems and monitoring vessels. The US already has more than 100 military personnel stationed at Pituffik base under existing agreements with Denmark. Nielsen said Greenland does not want to be governed or owned by the US, calling the situation a “geopolitical crisis.” European allies, including major NATO members, have expressed support for Denmark, stressing that only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters regarding the island. Danish and Greenlandic officials are scheduled to travel to the US to meet Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Greenland’s growing resource potential, including rare earth minerals, uranium, iron, oil, and gas, has increased international interest, especially as climate change melts ice and improves access.   With inputs from BBC

US Vice President JD Vance stated on Friday that Denmark has "underinvested" in Greenland’s security and insisted that Denmark alter its approach, as President Donald Trump continues to push for U.S. control over the Danish territory. These sharp remarks were made during Vance’s visit to U.S. troops stationed at Pituffik Space Base on the resource-rich and strategically significant island. Accompanied by his wife and other senior U.S. officials, Vance’s trip was ultimately scaled back following backlash from Greenlanders and Danes who had not been consulted about the initial itinerary. Vance arrives at US military base in Greenland following uproar over uninvited visit “Our message to Denmark is very simple: You have not served the people of Greenland well,” Vance said. “You have underinvested in the people of Greenland and in the security framework of this remarkable, beautiful landmass filled with extraordinary individuals. That must change.” Vance asserted that the U.S. has “no option” but to take a prominent role in ensuring Greenland’s security, while also supporting the island’s movement towards independence from Denmark. “I believe they will ultimately align with the United States,” Vance stated. “We could make them significantly more secure. We could offer much stronger protection. And I think they would benefit economically as well.” However, reactions from Greenland’s parliament members and citizens suggest otherwise, as widespread outrage erupted over the Trump administration’s efforts to annex the Arctic island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rejected Vance’s assertion that Denmark was failing in Arctic defense, emphasising that Denmark remains “a good and strong ally.” Upon arrival, Vance briefly addressed U.S. troops at the base and had lunch with them alongside his wife, reaffirming the Trump administration’s deep interest in “Arctic security.” His entourage—including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Utah Senator Mike Lee—also received briefings from military officials. The delegation landed at the remote base, located 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) north of the Arctic Circle, where temperatures were minus-3 degrees F (minus-19 degrees C). “It’s cold as s—- here. Nobody told me,” Vance remarked, eliciting laughter. The modified trip to Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, comes amid deteriorating U.S.-Denmark relations, despite Denmark’s longstanding status as a U.S. ally and NATO member. Trump has repeatedly proposed that the U.S. should assume control of Greenland in some capacity. During his concluding remarks, Vance emphasised that military intervention would not be necessary, advocating instead for an expanded American presence on the island. “Because we believe the people of Greenland are rational and reasonable, we anticipate that we’ll need to negotiate a deal—Trump-style—to ensure both the security of this territory and that of the United States,” Vance stated, while acknowledging Greenlanders’ right to determine their own future. In Washington, Trump reaffirmed on Friday that the U.S. “needs Greenland for international security.” Speaking to reporters shortly after Vance’s arrival, Trump pointed to growing Chinese and Russian interests in the Arctic, where melting ice has opened new maritime routes. “Greenland is crucial to global peace,” Trump declared. “I think Denmark understands this, and so does the European Union. And if they don’t, we will have to make it clear to them.” Following Vance’s speech, Frederiksen countered that Denmark is already strengthening its defense capabilities in the Arctic, including the deployment of new Arctic ships and long-range drones. JD Vance to visit Greenland with wife She also stressed that, as Greenland is part of NATO, protecting the Arctic is a collective responsibility. Referring to Denmark’s commitment to the U.S. in its war on terror, she criticised Vance’s remarks as “an unfair characterisation” of Denmark’s efforts. Denmark’s ambassador to the U.S., Jesper Møller Sørensen, expressed gratitude to Vance “for taking a closer look at Arctic security” and affirmed that both nations agree on the need for further measures. “Greenland & Denmark share a mutual interest in strengthening our already exceptionally close ties with our friend & ally,” Sørensen posted on social media. Ahead of Vance’s arrival, four out of the five political parties in Greenland’s newly elected parliament signed an agreement to form a broad-based coalition government. This alliance was formed in direct response to Trump’s ambitions regarding the territory. “We are facing a time when our population is under pressure,” prime minister-designate Jens-Frederik Nielsen stated before signing the agreement, which was met with applause and cheers in Nuuk. “We must remain united. Together, we are strongest,” Greenland’s broadcaster KNR reported. In an Instagram post, Frederiksen congratulated Nielsen and his incoming government, expressing her eagerness for close cooperation “in an unnecessarily conflict-filled time.” Frederiksen had earlier criticised the planned U.S. visit, initially scheduled to last three days, saying it placed “unacceptable pressure” on Greenland. While Denmark remains committed to working with the U.S. on security matters, she insisted that Greenland belongs to its people. Originally, Vance’s wife, Usha Vance, had planned a solo trip to Sisimiut to attend the Avannaata Qimussersu dogsled race. The vice president later announced that he would join her, but after protests from Greenland and Denmark, the itinerary was altered again to limit the visit to a single day at the military base. Residents of Nuuk, located approximately 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) south of Pituffik, voiced concerns about Vance’s visit and the U.S. interest in their homeland. Cora Høy, 22, commented that while Vance was “welcome to visit,” Greenland was “not for sale.” She added, “It’s unusual for Greenland to receive this level of attention. Every day now seems to be about (Trump), and I just want a break from it.” “It’s all quite overwhelming. Naturally, the population is unsettled,” said 30-year-old Inuk Kristensen. “I share the same sentiment as everyone else: This is not the right way to handle things. You don’t just show up and announce you want to buy the place.” As a strategic gateway to the Arctic and the North Atlantic approaches to North America, Greenland holds significant geopolitical value, particularly as China and Russia seek access to its waterways and natural resources. “We must ensure that America leads in the Arctic, because if we don’t, other nations will take advantage of the gaps we leave behind,” Vance asserted.

Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh Christian Brix Moller on Tuesday said now the time has come to work on institutional strengthening, good governance and make the systems transparent and accountable for Bangladesh. "CPD is uniquely positioned to facilitate the transformation process of the country as a proven thought leaders on socio-economic transformation," said the Ambassador. Through the signing of a new project, Denmark and Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) are set to contribute to the existing interim government’s reform agenda. The Danish Ambassador and CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun formalided this four-year partnership on Tuesday. This partnership aims to emphasise the economic reform and green transition agenda specifically through research, dialogue and policy advocacy. "We believe this engagement will offer realistic recommendations for the policymakers to restore economic stability, bring trust to the foreign investors and potential ways to overcome the challenges of the middle- income trap," said Ambassador Moller. The envoy said they want to see Bangladesh’s strong presence in the global value chain with higher productivity, diversification of the income, entering into FTAs, and ease of doing business. "And CPD as a key player for policy advocacy can step up as key agents of transformation of the country." Read: Dr Yunus urges quick solution to KEPZ land rights issue Dr Fahmida said they are indebted to Denmark for its support for their institutionalization. Back in 2019, Denmark contributed to the institutional arrangement of CPD. "Danish government has been consistency promoting rule of law and good governance and CPD has same ambition," said the CPD ED. "This partnership is a timely one as we are passing a transitional period for the country and expecting to bring structural and institutional changes for the country. We are hopeful to create evidence and research appropriate for the existing reform agenda of the interim government," she said. Read more: Denmark, AUW to promote women´s climate leadership CPD said the new partnership will ensure stakeholder engagement, capacity development of students and duty bearers along with policy dialogue for the next four years to have long lasting changes into the country.

Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh Christian Brix Moller has said Asian University for Women (AUW), as a university promoting women´s leadership and offering higher education to the most vulnerable women from diverse backgrounds, is uniquely positioned to implement the promises of climate leadership project. “Through this engagement, we believe AUW can create women leaders who can step up as climate frontrunners for Bangladesh and the region,” said the Ambassador. Through the signing of a new project, Denmark and Asian University for Women (AUW) are set to foster climate leadership among young women, said the Danish Embassy in Dhaka on Sunday. The initiative aims to create a platform for youth-driven climate solutions by making linkages between academia and industry. The Ambassador and AUW Vice Chancellor Dr Rubana Huq recently formalized the four-year partnership. This project aims to develop innovative climate change leaders and change-makers by providing AUW students with comprehensive education and training in climate science, environmental engineering, and leadership. The program will equip students to play a vital role in advancing climate resilience and environmental sustainability. Make Bangladesh a distribution hub for Asia: CA urges Norway Rubana Huq said AUW has always been a symbol of creativity and ingenuity and the partnership will create opportunities for their students to be engaged with climate-related discourses and research. “I would like to recall the contribution of Lone Dybkjær, who was instrumental in setting up this university,” she said. Late Lone Dybkjær, a former Danish politician, played a key role in the establishment of AUW and remained involved with the institution since its inception. Police arrest 4 snatchers from in front of Mitford Hospital The Lone Dybkjær Foundation continues to provide scholarships to AUW students and facilitates exchange programmes. The new partnership will also offer scholarships, internships and job placement opportunities for AUW students with a range of prestigious institutions.

Highlighting Danish knowledge and expertise, Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Monday sought Danish investments in renewable energy, particularly offshore wind and solar energy as well as in the ICT sector. The Foreign Minister expressed optimism to further strengthen our bilateral ties and widen business baskets further. The issues were discussed when Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh Christian Brix Moller met the Foreign Minister at his office at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. No more stray mortal shells from Myanmar to land in Bangladesh, hopes FM The Danish Ambassador termed the relations between the two countries as value-based, exceptional and strong. Bangladesh is Denmark’s second largest development partner and the largest in terms of per capita trade, he added. Ambassador Moller raised increasing interests of Danish companies in Bangladesh’s port infrastructure and renewable energy sectors including APM Terminals’ initiatives to construct and operate a container terminal at Laldia in Chattogram and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and Copenhagen Offshore Partners proposal to invest US$ 1.3 billion in Bangladesh to generate 500 MW offshore wind energy. Dr Shi submits credentials to FM as new FAO Representative in Bangladesh He also expressed Danish investors’ interest in establishing cold chains in Bangladesh. The Ambassador hoped for a visit by the Danish Foreign Minister to Bangladesh in near future, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh Christian Brix Møller on Sunday met BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the BGMEA Complex in and discussed issues of mutual interest. Their discussions revolved around crucial issues related Bangladesh’s ready-made garments (RMG) industry, focusing on the current status, global market dynamics, challenges, and priorities for sustainable development. Sammilito Parishad accords warm reception to RMG entrepreneurs who elected MPs in 12th National elections The meeting also delved into the potential for enhanced collaboration between Denmark and Bangladesh, particularly in the areas of sustainability, circularity, and the integration of energy-efficient technologies within the garment industry. The meeting also touched upon the preparation of Bangladeshi RMG and textile companies for the upcoming EU Due Diligence, said the BGMEA. Sammilita Parishad starts election activities for BGMEA elections Faruque Hassan apprised Ambassador Christian Brix Møller of BGMEA’s strategic vision to elevate the RMG industry’s position in the global market through product diversification, innovation, efficiency improvement, and skill development, with a paramount focus on sustainability. He urged the Danish envoy to facilitate collaboration between BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) and leading Danish fashion institutes to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in key areas such as product and design development, along with the latest manufacturing technologies. BGMEA partners with Manabik Shahajya Sangstha to provide eye care services to garment workers The meeting was attended by Shams Mahmud, Chair, BGMEA Standing Committee on Foreign Mission Cell, Mohammed Kamal, Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Trade Fair, and Sanjay Kumar Naha, Director, Rose Intimates Limited. Saadia Taufiq Sadi, Senior Trade Adviser, and Ali Asraf Khan, Supply Chain Specialist, from the Danish Embassy in Dhaka, were also present at the meeting.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday (August 28, 2023) assured that relevant authorities of Bangladesh will give due consideration to a proposal of Danish shipping and logistic giant Maersk Group for constructing and operating a new container terminal at Laldia of Chattogram. The prime minister made the assurance when Chief Executive Officer of the Maersk Group Robert Maersk Uggla along with Danish Charges D’Affaires in Bangladesh Andres B Karlsen called on her at her office. Prime Minister's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed the reporters after the call on. ‘Lost a faithful political companion’: PM mourns death of Principal Motiur Rahman “Over 50 Danish Companies are working in Bangladdsh, and Maersk Group is now interested to construct and operate APM terminal at Laldia,”  Hasina said. The PM said that a national committee has been formed to formulate logistic policy for the development of ports. In this regard, she mentioned that two ports- Chattogram and Mongla are already in operation while the government is developing another named Paira Port and it will will come in to operation soon.  “India, Nepal and Bhutan have been given opportunities to use these ports for the mutual benefits,” the prime minister said. There will be many opportunities and advantages in the ports particularly in the Paira port, she added. Foreign leaders attending BRICS summit laud Bangladesh's dev under PM Hasina's leadeship: Momen Pointing out contribution of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman  for the development and welfare of the nation, Sheikh Hasina said, the great leader struggled throughout his life for the economic emancipation of the people. During the meeting, the Maersk Group CEO said, there are great potentials in the areas of container shipping and logistic support in Bangladesh. Maersk Uggla welcomed vision of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to establish smart Bangladesh and said it will be reflected in Chattogram sea port, according to the press secretary. He expressed keenness to invest for the development of port and logistic supports in Bangladesh saying there are many opportunities in this sectors. In this context, the Maersk Group CEO mentioned that H&M, M&S, Walmart and other big companies are interested to import more RMG products from Bangladesh. Unhindered democracy spurs Bangladesh’s advancement: PM Hasina He said that there are many opportunities to diversify cooperation, while the Danish government is very much supportive in the logistic policy. Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah and Chairman of Chattogram Port Authority Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail were present.