United News of Bangladesh

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has discussed advancing mutual cooperation in addressing critical environmental challenges with the US Embassy Chargé d'affaires, Tracey Ann Jacobson. The discussion was held after Jacobson paid a courtesy call on Rizwana at the Department of Environment in Dhaka, on Wednesday, according to a press release. Hilly areas neglected in climate change interventions: Rizwana The meeting focused on advancing mutual cooperation in addressing critical environmental challenges. Discussions highlighted the recent reform agenda of the Bangladesh government and emphasized collaborative efforts in promoting renewable energy, and conserving biodiversity. Rizwana expressed Bangladesh’s commitment to implementing innovative and sustainable policies for environmental protection. She stressed the need for enhanced international partnerships to promote eco-friendly technologies. Jacobson reaffirmed the United States' support for Bangladesh’s initiatives in renewable energy development and biodiversity conservation. She praised the government's efforts to address environmental issues while advancing the country’s development agenda. Polythene ban must be implemented for better future: Adviser Rizwana Both sides agreed to continue dialogue and explore further avenues for collaboration to achieve shared goals in environmental sustainability and resilience. Environment Ministry Secretary and officials from the US Embassy were present at the time, among others.

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has called on the United States to take in more Rohingyas from Bangladesh for rehabilitation. He made the request during a meeting with the US Embassy's Charge d’Affaires in Bangladesh, Tracey Ann Jacobson, at the Secretariat on Tuesday. Praising the US for its humanitarian aid and rehabilitation efforts for the Rohingyas, the adviser said, “The US has already rehabilitated some Rohingyas. I urge them to take in more for rehabilitation.” Responding to the request, Jacobson highlighted the US’s significant contribution to Rohingya development and rehabilitation. UN’s IIMM to investigate allegations of abuse against Rohingyas She noted that USAID, a US-based development organisation, has been collaborating with local Bangladeshi NGOs to improve the living standards of the Rohingyas. “The US has already rehabilitated about 17,000 Rohingyas and this process is going on.” The bilateral meeting covered several topics, including security, counterterrorism, the Rohingya crisis, law enforcement cooperation, police reforms, border issues, minority rights and agriculture. Terming the US a key development partner, the adviser acknowledged its continued support in addressing terrorism and security challenges. He also urged the US to provide training for the police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard on human rights and human trafficking. Responding to a query, Jahangir Alam said that the country’s borders are stable, with a director-general-level meeting between the BGB and India’s Border Security Force (BSF) scheduled to take place in New Delhi next month. On the question of minority persecution, the adviser dismissed such claims as propaganda from Indian media. “There is no persecution of minorities in Bangladesh. We consider everyone as Bangladeshi citizens with equal rights.” Govt demands clarification from UN on Rohingya exodus report He attributed isolated incidents involving minorities after August 5 to political reasons rather than religious ones. Jacobson reaffirmed the US’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development. She announced that the US is now allowing 30% more Bangladeshi students to pursue higher education compared to previous years. “We will also provide additional training to law enforcement agencies and ensure that participants apply their knowledge effectively upon returning to their duties.” Highlighting the importance of information sharing and database exchange to tackle terrorism and security concerns, Jacobson noted that the countries enjoy robust cooperation in these areas. Senior officials from the US Embassy in Dhaka were present at the meeting.

A delegation from the US Embassy paid a courtesy visit to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali on Tuesday. The delegation, led by Eric Geelan, political and economic counselor at the US Embassy in Dhaka, met the commissioner at the DMP Headquarters. The meeting was attended by several officials, including the US Embassy’s Regional Security Officer Daniel Blackmore, Political Officer Hermanoschy Bernard, Department of Justice’s Program Management Specialist Tanik Munir, and Senior Nabil Mahmud. Senior DMP officials were also present during the discussions. During the meeting, both parties emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation to enhance the bilateral relationship between DMP and the US Embassy. Commodity prices to stay below normal during Ramadan: Commerce Adviser They also discussed future action plans, improving the efficiency of CTTC officials, and mutual collaboration to combat crimes such as terrorism, cybercrime, and transnational crime. The meeting also focused on ways to strengthen professional development and mutual support for the enhancement of capabilities.  

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia provided her biometric fingerprints to the US Embassy on Wednesday as part of a process to complete her visa application. "Madam (Khaleda) may need to travel to the US for better treatment. This is why she visited the US Embassy today (Wednesday) to provide her biometric fingerprints," personal doctor Prof AZM Zahid Hossain told UNB. Accompanied by Dr Zahid, BNP Organising Secretary Shama Obed, Chairperson's Private Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, and her personal physician Mohammad Mamun, Khaleda Zia arrived at the embassy around 2:20 pm. Upon her arrival, senior officials of the US Embassy greeted the BNP chairperson. According to party sources, the BNP chief is scheduled to travel to the UK early next month. Party sources said the BNP chief will go to the UK first early next month. Later, she may travel to the USA or Germany for advanced treatment. Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister, has been struggling with a range of serious health issues, including liver cirrhosis, and problems with her heart, lungs, kidneys and eyes. Since her conditional release, she has undergone multiple treatments at Evercare Hospital in the capital, under the supervision of a medical board chaired by Prof Shahabuddin Talukder. The BNP has made all the necessary arrangements to send her abroad for specialised treatment at a state-of-the-art medical facility.  

The American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) held a luncheon reception to welcome the newly appointed Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Dhaka Megan Bouldin and its Political Economic Counselor Eric Geelan on Wednesday. On the occasion, the AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed, members of the Executive Committee, and all the AmCham members greeted both at their new appointment in Bangladesh. The AmCham President mentioned that they joined the US Embassy just after the revolution, a defining moment in our history, driven by a shared dream of unity, transparency, and progress. He expressed that Megan Bouldin and Eric Geelan’s new assignments to the US Embassy will further enhance and strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the US. USAID to provide $ 15 mln to boost climate resilience in Bangladesh Megan Bouldin, the newly appointed Deputy Chief of Mission, expressed her commitment to working with AmCham for shared success, progress, and prosperity, according to AmCham. Chargé d’affaires Helen LaFave also graced the program and shared his thoughts. Many AmCham members, including the Executive Committee Members, John Fay, Commercial Counselor, US Embassy, Dhaka, foreign dignitaries, business leaders, and other distinguished guests attended the luncheon. Al-Mamun M Rashel, treasurer-AmCham, Country Manager and Managing Director, NATco Bangladesh, offered the vote of thanks.

The US Embassy in Dhaka, in partnership with the American Film Showcase (AFS), hosted a screening of the documentary ‘15 Minutes of Shame’ at the American Center to observe Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This event brought together a diverse audience, including IT students, civil society members, media, and academics, as part of the Embassy's efforts to promote digital safety and responsible online practices. Besides the American Center, the screening also took place in four American corners in Barishal, Sylhet, Chattogram and Rajshahi virtually. Approximately 200 viewers watched the documentary together across these five venues. Bren Flanigan, Deputy Director of Public Engagement at the US Embassy Dhaka, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the real-world consequences of online harassment and public shaming. He highlighted the growing challenges of digital privacy and security, stressing the need for increased awareness and responsible behavior online. Read: Cyber Security law continues Digital Security Act’s oppression, say victims ‘15 Minutes of Shame’, directed by Monica Lewinsky and Max Joseph, delves into the personal toll of public shaming and cyber-harassment, featuring real-life accounts of individuals impacted by online misconduct.

The United States has said it looks forward to working with Bangladesh to "enhance economic investment" over the next 50 years and beyond. The visiting US delegation met Salman F Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to PM Sheikh Hasina, to hear how government and private companies are collaborating. Eileen Laubacher, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South Asia, US National Security Council (NSC); Michael Schiffer, USAID Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia; and Afreen Akhter, US Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, are on a three-day visit to Bangladesh. For over 50 years, the US has partnered with the government and the people of Bangladesh, providing over $8 billion to tackle issues like public health, education, energy, environment, food security, natural disasters, and more. Read: Want to create a new chapter in our relations: Foreign Minister says after meeting with US delegation The United States is one of the largest investors in Bangladesh and its largest single country export market, said the US Embassy in Dhaka. "Our leadership from Washington D.C. joined local economic experts to discuss a range of issues impacting the bilateral trade relationship," said the US Embassy. The United States "stands ready" to help Bangladesh create a business climate that attracts more investment from the US. The delegation discussed ways to improve the business environment, making investment in Bangladesh more attractive to American companies. Read: Bangladesh-US relations will be stronger based on environment, climate actions: Environment Minister The three officials, according to the US side, are visiting Bangladesh to discuss with the government of Bangladesh ways to "strengthen diplomatic ties, address challenges, and promote a shared vision for the advancement of mutual interests in the Indo-Pacific region." They also met Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, civil society representatives, labour leaders, youth activists and those engaged in developing a free and uncensored media. "We discussed with the Foreign Minister how our two countries can work on mutual interests, including economic development, security, refugees, climate, labor, and trade," said the US Embassy in a separate message after the meeting. Bangladesh is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific region, it said. Read more: US Deputy Assistant Secretary meets Bangladeshi civil society members including Zillur and Adilur

The United States has emphasized the critical role of civil society in nurturing a robust democracy and catalyzing positive societal changes. Following a significant meeting between US Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Afreen Akhter and key figures from Bangladesh's civil society, the US Embassy in Dhaka expressed satisfaction on Sunday. "Very pleased to meet today with courageous and committed figures in Bangladesh’s civil society to share views on its present state," the Embassy stated. Environment Minister inaugurates 2nd National Forest Inventory The US said it will continue to engage on democracy and human rights issues. "We call on the government of Bangladesh to do so too," the message shared by the US Embassy from its verified Facebook page said. Notably present at the meeting were journalist Zillur Rahman and Odhikar’s Secretary Adilur Rahman Khan. Meanwhile, a US delegation led by the USAID Assistant Administrator for the Bureau for Asia, Michael Schiffer, accompanied by Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter met with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen at State guesthouse Padma to discuss issues for strengthening bilateral relations. Read more: US to work with Bangladesh to ‘enhance economic investment’ in next 50 years and beyond

US Embassy in Dhaka has alerted its Facebook followers to remain aware of fake profiles. “Stay aware of these deceptive profiles on social media! They may seem official, but they’re faker than a sunflower in the Arctic,” a post from US Embassy’s verified Facebook page today (November 07, 2023) reads. Read: US says it takes any violence leading up to election in Bangladesh ‘incredibly seriously’ The embassy also encouraged netizens not to share personal information and not to engage with requests for money if they encounter any such profile. The US Embassy also encouraged reporting the profiles on the social media platforms.

Though US Ambassador Peter Haas mentioned inclusion of media in the visa restriction policy for Bangladesh, the United States Department of State refrained from mentioning media. “I will say that, as we noted when we announced these new visa restrictions on Friday, they include – they include both members of law enforcement, the ruling party, and the political opposition,” US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a regular media briefing on September 25. He also said when the US Secretary of State announced the new visa policy in May, the purpose was not to take a side, but to ensure or to support free, fair, and peaceful national election in Bangladesh. Chief Justice rails against US visa policy on last working day Responding to a question specifically on the inclusion of media in the visa restrictions, the State Department spokesperson said: “I think what we have said, and we – so we have not announced because visa records are confidential – we have not announced the specific members or the specific individuals to which this will apply, but it made clear that they will apply to members of law enforcement, the ruling party, and the political opposition.” Clarifying the issue after US Ambassador Peter Haas’ remarks, the US Embassy in a Facebook post on Monday said, “We are applying the [visa restriction] policy in a balanced way against anyone [undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh] – regardless of being pro-government, opposition party, members of law enforcement agencies, members of the judiciary, or media persons.” Image of police won’t be affected due to US Visa policy: IGP US Embassy Spokesperson Bryan Schiller said the visa restriction policy can be applied to anyone “found to be undermining” democratic elections in Bangladesh. “This could include vote rigging, intimidating voters, use of violence to prevent people from exercising their rights to freedom of association and freedom of peaceful assembly, and the use of measures designed to prevent political parties, voters, civil society, or the media from participating in the electoral process or expressing their views,” he told UNB while responding to a question. Responding to a question on BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s release and treatment abroad, US State Department Spokesperson Miller said, “I just don’t have any comment on that.” What could be the possible reasons to apply US visa restrictions against someone?