United News of Bangladesh

The 2026 World Robot Conference began in Beijing on Wednesday, bringing together a wide range of robots and robotic technologies designed for work, healthcare, education and everyday life. The conference is being held under the theme “Human-Robot Symbiosis, Production-Demand Convergence.” Visitors at the event saw robots demonstrating a variety of skills, including playing football and table tennis, dancing, sewing, sorting packages and folding clothes. Humanoid robots and robotic dogs were among the major attractions, while companies also displayed robotic hands, surgical robots and machines designed for educational purposes. Some robots demonstrated their ability to perform household tasks, including cleaning, clearing dining tables and handling clothes. The event also featured entertainment-focused robots. Robot bands performed music, while other machines entertained visitors with dances, including a robotic lion dance. Children and other visitors watched demonstrations and took photographs with the robots on display. The conference also highlighted the growing use of robotics in specialised areas. An orthopedic surgical robot and a robotic dog designed for detection were among the technologies showcased at the event. The conference provides a platform for companies, researchers and visitors to explore recent developments in robotics and their possible applications in everyday life and different industries.

The upcoming second World Humanoid Robot Games will see a fourfold increase in participation compared to last year's inaugural event, organizers announced on Thursday. Scheduled to take place in Beijing from August 22 to 26, the event has attracted 666 teams and 2,056 robots from 16 countries, according to Jiang Guangzhi, director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology. Maryland tax court strikes down digital ad tax, orders refunds to Apple, Google and Peacock TV Participating robots include entries from global robotics powerhouses such as the United States, Germany and Japan. Additionally, Brazil has formed a national team consisting of five RoboCup squads . Domestic Chinese participation is significant, featuring 641 teams and 1,975 robots from 157 enterprises and 200 universities and research institutions, including major robotics firms and 27 leading universities. Organizers noted that this year’s games will feature over 30 events. Newly added competitions include weightlifting, table tennis, long jump and tug of war, all designed to evaluate structural design, motion control and core components. Scenario-based contests will also expand into real-world settings, including factories, hotels, homes and logistics facilities. Robots will be tested on practical tasks such as housekeeping, emergency response, assembling and library book sorting. Jiang said many competition rules are expected to evolve into technical standards, facilitating the transition from technological advances to industrial applications.

China on Thursday reacted to China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh, urging the US side ‘to be more aware of its responsibilities, and focus more on actions’ that are ‘conducive to Bangladesh’s stability’ as well as the development and cooperation in the region. "Such remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh are irresponsible and utterly unfounded," said the Spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, refuting China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh. The spokesperson said they confuse right and wrong, and are ‘completely out of ulterior motives’, according to the reaction shared by the Embassy from its verified Facebook page. New US Ambassador to Bangladesh raises  concern over China’s regional influence Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the spokesperson said, Bangladesh and China have always supported each other, treated one another as equals, and engaged in win-win cooperation. "The China-Bangladesh cooperation has delivered benefits to and received broad support from the people of both countries. It is conducive to the development and stability in the region," said the spokesperson. China said the cooperation between Bangladesh and China is a matter between the two countries and their peoples, and brooks no interference or finger-pointing by the US side. Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen on Wednesday said he is concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia, stressing that they have a host of options available to try to help their partner militaries meet their capability needs. ‘You know, as I said in my hearing…I am concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia. I think the United States government has been very clear about that," he said while responding to a question during an interaction with a small group of journalists. US doesn't take sides in Bangladesh elections: Ambassador Christensen "And as I committed to my hearing, I will always engage with our friends in the government—be it the interim government or the newly elected government-- to clearly articulate the risks of involvement  with the Chinese in certain areas should the Bangladesh government choose to go down that path," Ambassador Christensen said.

Humanoid robots danced hip-hop, performed martial arts, and played musical instruments at the opening ceremony of the first World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing on Thursday evening. The three-day competition, which begins Friday, features more than 500 humanoid robots in 280 teams from 16 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan. Robots will compete in sports such as soccer, running, and boxing, reflecting China’s growing focus on developing artificial intelligence-powered humanoid robots. During the opening ceremony, robots demonstrated their skills in soccer and boxing, with some cheering and backflipping as if participating in a real sports event. One robot soccer player scored a goal after a few attempts, causing the robot goalkeeper to fall, while another fell but recovered without assistance. Scientists uncover ancient whale with Pokémon-like face and sharp teeth In addition to sports, robots modeled fashionable hats and clothes alongside human models. In one mishap, a robot model fell and had to be carried off stage by two humans. Teams from robotics companies, Chinese universities including Tsinghua University and Peking University, and three middle schools are taking part in the games. The event highlights both competition and innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence. China’s official newspaper People’s Daily quoted a government officer in Beijing saying that every participating robot “is creating history.” The World Humanoid Robot Games will conclude on Sunday. Tickets sold to the public range from 180 yuan ($25) to 580 yuan ($80).

Describing the recently held tripartite meeting as an effort to have “concrete cooperation” in certain areas, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Wednesday said they are working with Bangladesh and Pakistan to follow up and implement the consensus they reached.  “We have already identified 12 areas for concrete cooperation including industry, trade, education, environment protection, water resources. There will be some follow up and we are working with Bangladesh and Pakistan to follow up and implement this consensus,” he told reporters after attending a seminar in the capital. Ambassador Yao said the meeting, held recently in Kunming, was part of an initiative to have their cooperation to improve economic development and livelihoods of all there countries – Bangladesh, China and Pakistan. “We are in a very critical moment. There are lots of things we can work together. I see this for the common interests of the three countries,” said the Chinese Ambassador. He stressed that the principle of cooperation is to remain open, maintain transparency and ensure mutual benefits. “Our cooperation is based on mutual trust. It is open and transparent process. It does not target any third country. That is the message to convey,” said Ambassador Yao. The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) hosted the seminar on ‘China-Bangladesh Industrial and Supply Chain Cooperation’ where ‘Industry Reports’ by the CEAB was released. Bangladesh, Mexico celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties with landmark illuminations in Mexico City Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, along with representatives from the concerned agencies and departments of the Bangladesh government and business leaders from both countries were present. Earlier, Bangladesh, China and Pakistan identified several areas for deeper cooperation including infrastructure, connectivity, trade, investment, healthcare, agriculture, maritime affairs, ICT, disaster preparedness and climate change issues. Bangladesh, China and Pakistan held the "informal trilateral meeting" on the sidelines of the 9th China-South Asia Exposition and the 6th China-South Asia Cooperation meeting in Kunming on June 19. June 26, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain ruled out any new alliance among Bangladesh, China and Pakistan, and stressed that it was not done targeting Bangladesh’s neighbouring country – India. Foreign Affairs Adviser off to Malaysia to attend ASEAN Regional Forum   “We are not forming any alliance. It was a meeting at the official level, not at the political level…. there was no element of formation of any alliance,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while responding to a question last month. Asked whether the meeting was aimed at making India cornered, Adviser Hossain said it is certainly not targeting a third-party. “I can assure you.”

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has said China is committed to working hand in hand with Bangladesh to translate mutual understandings into tangible outcomes, thereby delivering concrete benefits to the people of both nations and creating greater shared prosperity. He pointed out that the Chief Adviser's visit to China constituted a milestone in the history of the bilateral relations between China and Bangladesh. Praising the visit as symbolic and substantive, Ambassador Yao reiterated China’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Bangladesh beyond politics, including future education, healthcare and people-to-people contact. China’s exports surge while imports dip amid rising US tariffs The Ambassador reflected on broader global economic shifts: “This visit reaffirms that our relationship is not based on government change, but people-to-people solidarity.” Ambassador Yao was speaking at a seminar at North South University on Sunday, highlighting Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus' landmark visit to China. The North South University hosted the academic seminar titled “Reassessing Sino-Bangla Relations: Chief Adviser’s Landmark Visit.” Dr. Khalilur Rahman, National Security Adviser and High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and Priority Affairs to the Chief Adviser spoke as the chief guest. Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor of North South University; as well as representatives of diplomatic corps from various countries, representatives of international organizations, and scholars from Chinese and Bangladeshi think tanks were present. Dr Rahman expressed deep appreciation for China’s efforts to ensure the success of this visit and noted with satisfaction the widespread positive comments it received across different sectors in Bangladesh. China, ASEAN media and think tanks urged to embrace AI, address its challenges He affirmed that the interim government will take concrete actions to implement the outcomes of the visit, aiming to leave a lasting legacy for the China-Bangladesh relations, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Bangladesh. Speakers at the seminar spoke highly of the achievements of Chief Adviser Prof. Yunus’ visit to China, describing it as a productive and solution-oriented mission that brought back valuable strategies for overcoming Bangladesh’s current economic challenges. They noted that the visit has given renewed momentum to the country’s pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and further enriched the scope and substance of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Bangladesh.  

The Beijing Emergency Management Office has issued an orange warning for the strongest winds in nearly a decade expected to sweep across the city, urging residents to take necessary precautions against potential hazards. According to the emergency office, from the late afternoon of April 11 through April 13, residents in Beijing should prepare for extreme winds and a significant drop in temperature, with the most intense winds expected between 6am and 10pm on April 12 (local time). The Municipal Meteorological Observatory has issued an orange alert for gale-force winds. "To ensure your safety, we strongly recommend limiting or avoiding outdoor activities during this period," it said. The emergency office also added that if you have to go out, please keep well clear of trees, billboards, and temporary structures, and remain vigilant for falling objects from above. While indoors, please exercise caution with electrical appliances and take proactive measures to prevent fires. SKorean opposition leader opens presidential bid following Yoon's ouster It also urged people to stay safe and remain alert during this period. The orange alert — the second-highest level in China's four-tier weather warning system — indicates the possibility of significant disruptions to daily life and increased risk of accidents. In addition, the city’s emergency services have been placed on high alert, with emergency response teams and utility companies prepared to respond quickly to any incidents, including falling debris, power outages, or traffic disruptions. The warning is expected to remain in effect until the wind intensity subsides. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and follow all safety instructions issued by the authorities. For real-time updates and emergency contacts, please visit the official website of the Beijing Emergency Management Office or follow its social media accounts.

Praising Bangladesh’s good track record in loan repayment, China on Tuesday "agreed in principle" to extend the loan repayment period and assured to look into the request of the interest rate reduction. Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md Touhid, during his meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing, requested China to reduce interest rate from 2-3% to 1%, waive commitment fee and extend loan repayment period from 20 years to 30 years for both the Preferential Buyer’s Credit (PBC) loan and Government Concessional Loan (GCL). The Chinese Foreign Minister also assured to continue DFQF access of Bangladeshi products to the Chinese market for 3 years after the LDC graduation. Meanwhile, Bangladesh and China signed the ‘Implementation Plan" of the MoU in exchange of "Hydrological Information" sharing of the Yaluzangbu-Jamuna River. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China places Bangladesh at a very important position in her neighborhood diplomacy and praised the existing warm relations between the two nations. Bangladesh and China reaffirmed their commitment to ‘Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ during bilateral talks held at the Diaoyuitai State Guest House in Beijing. Yi said the people of Bangladesh have given important responsibility to Prof Yunus who has dedicated himself in maintaining civility and unity of the country, and his government has done many tangible good things for Bangladesh. He recalled his fruitful meeting with Prof Yunus on the sidelines of the last UNGA. Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed that China respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh and reiterated continued Chinese support for the stability, reforms, democratic transition and development initiatives of Bangladesh. He also mentioned that China wants to see Bangladesh’s economic development in pace with their own development. ‘China would continue supporting projects conducive to the livelihood of the people of Bangladesh’–the Foreign Minister stated. Adviser Hossain is paying an official visit to China at the invitation of the Chinese Foreign Minister. Dr Yunus begins extensive engagements in Davos; holds talks with German Chancellor Senior officials from the Ministries of Commerce, Water Resources and the Economic Relations Division are accompanying the Foreign Adviser. This is his first bilateral visit abroad after assuming charge. This visit also coincides with the celebration of the golden jubilee of diplomatic relations between the two friendly nations. Adviser Hossain was warmly welcomed by Foreign Minister Wang Yi before the bilateral talks. The talks were held in a very cordial atmosphere covering a wide range of topics including development cooperation, trade and investment, infrastructure development, sectoral cooperation, and people to people exchanges. Both sides expressed their commitment to deepening collaboration in areas of mutual interest and leveraging opportunities for shared prosperity. Adviser Hossain emphasised that his first bilateral visit to China reflects Bangladesh’s strong intent to engage with China in a robust partnership to give the relationship a new momentum. Adviser Hossain reiterated Bangladesh’s firm commitment to ‘One China Principle’ and unwavering support for UNGA Resolution 2758. He mentioned that the July-August 2024 movement in Bangladesh gave an opportunity to rebuild our nation on the principles of equality, non-discrimination, corruption free system and equal access to resources for all. Malaysia extends repatriation programme for undocumented Bangladeshis Upon Bangladesh’s request, Foreign Minister Yi conveyed China’s decision to especially designate 3 to 4 recognised hospitals in Kunming for treatment of Bangladeshi patients. He also welcomed Bangladesh’s proposal of establishing a specialised tertiary level Chinese hospital in Dhaka as a gesture of goodwill on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain had a bilateral meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Tuesday and discussed a wide range of issues and ways to strengthen Dhaka's economic partnership with Beijing. The meeting was held at a time when Bangladesh and China are preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025. Adviser Hossain is paying the visit at the invitation of the Chinese Foreign Minister in what is described as “very important first bilateral visit” after the formation of the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr Yunus in August last year. Read: Foreign Adviser off to China on maiden visit for boosting economic ties Bangladesh sees Hossain’s maiden bilateral visit to China as a “great opportunity” to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations with Beijing giving an outline for the future cooperation. He is scheduled to return home on January 24.

Bangladesh plans to request China to lower loan interest rates, extend repayment terms by 30 years and waive commitment fees to bolster economic cooperation. The issues along with budget support will come up in a big way during Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's bilateral visit to China next week. "...all economic issues will come up for discussion. Some issues are very important. Bangladesh's trade and economic relations with China are very important," the adviser said while talking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday. Adviser Hossain said they will discuss budgetary support, explore China's assistance, expedite loan disbursement for Bangladeshi projects, and seek a full withdrawal of the commitment fee. A commitment fee in China is a charge made by a lender to a borrower for keeping a line of credit available. Bangladesh needs global support for climate adaptation: France Hossain will pay the visit at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on January 20-24 which is described as “very important first bilateral visit” after the formation of the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus in August last year. The Foreign Adviser said he will leave Dhaka on January 20 (evening) and will return to Dhaka on January 24. He will have engagements on January 21-23. Bangladesh sees Hossain’s maiden bilateral visit to China as a “great opportunity” to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations with Beijing giving an outline for the future cooperation. Asked about GDI, the Adviser said there are some issues that will continue to be discussed with a positive approach and noted that Bangladesh’s relationship with China is not just government-specific. The Global Development Initiative (GDI) is a multilateral development initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2021. Dhaka shares national aspiration for "credible, inclusive" polls with UN The GDI aims to promote global development by addressing challenges such as poverty, climate change, and food insecurity. Asked about a discussion over 5 billion budget support issue initiated during the previous regime, Hossain said that discussion remains in place “This visit is a great opportunity to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China,” Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Mohammad Rafiqul Alam told reporters at a weekly media briefing recently. The ongoing cooperation between Bangladesh and China in key areas, including economic collaboration, trade, and investment, will be reviewed during the visit, according to Spokesperson Alam. Dr Yunus urges quick solution to KEPZ land rights issue The discussions aim to outline the future framework for strengthening bilateral relations. The visit will also focus on fostering cooperation in agriculture, education, infrastructure, renewable energy, and finding sustainable solutions to the Rohingya crisis, he added. At the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Adviser Hossain will engage in discussions on various issues of mutual interest with his Chinese counterpart during this visit. Bangladesh and China are preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025. To commemorate this milestone, both countries have initiated several programmes. "This visit marks an auspicious beginning to the golden jubilee celebrations of diplomatic ties between the two nations," Alam said. China is a significant strategic partner of Bangladesh, serving as one of its largest trading and development partners, Alam said. He noted that bilateral relations have evolved into a "Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership," reflecting their multidimensional collaboration. The annual trade volume between Bangladesh and China stands at approximately $25 billion, though the trade balance is currently unfavorable to Bangladesh. The visit is expected to address trade restructuring and explore ways to boost Chinese investment in various sectors within Bangladesh, Alam remarked. Time to make system transparent, accountable for Bangladesh: Danish Ambassador The Foreign Adviser is scheduled to deliver speeches at the China Institute of International Studies and the Shanghai Institute of International Studies. He will also meet business representatives in Shanghai to promote increased Chinese investment in Bangladesh.