Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
PM opens ‘Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Battery Complex' in Ctg
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday (April 21, 2024) inaugurated newly constructed 'Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Battery Complex' at Halishahar cantonment in Chittagong.
She inaugurated this complex at the Artillery Center and School in Chittagong's Halishahar Cantonment.
After the inauguration, the Prime Minister visited the Artillery Museum established at the newly constructed 'Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Battery Complex'.
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She also witnessed sculpture of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman installed at the museum.
She also saw the historic 3.7 inch howitzer that fired the first shot of Mujib Battery in the War of Liberation, the ammunition used in the artillery regiment and replicas of all the cannons and the glorious history of the remarkable operations of the artillery forces in the great Liberation War.
Later, the Prime Minister attended Darbar there.
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PM Hasina advocates for enhanced direct RMG imports by Brazil to strengthen bilateral trade
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in a meeting held on Monday (April 8, 2024) with the visiting Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and his delegation, underscored the significant potential for enhancing bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Brazil.
“There is immense scope to increase bilateral trade between the two countries,” she was quoted as saying.
The meeting took place at the Prime Minister's office, where Sheikh Hasina highlighted the opportunity for Brazil to augment its import of readymade garment (RMG) products directly from Bangladesh, thus eliminating the need for intermediaries and making the process more cost-effective.
The briefing to reporters post-discussion was provided by PM's speechwriter M Nazrul Islam.
He revealed that the Prime Minister expressed a desire to deepen the current bilateral relationship between the two nations. Noting the current trade imbalance heavily skewed in favour of Brazil — with Bangladesh importing substantial amounts of sugar, soybean oil, and cotton from Brazil and exporting only a minimal amount of RMG products in return — she pointed out the considerable scope for Brazil to diversify its imports to include not only more RMG products but also jute, jute goods, leather, and leather goods from Bangladesh.
Reflecting on the historical connections, Prime Minister Hasina remarked on Brazil's significant role as the first country in South America to recognise Bangladesh's independence in 1971, shortly after the Liberation War.
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She emphasised the shared perspectives and stances of Bangladesh and Brazil in various international forums.
The conversation also veered towards sports, with the Prime Minister expressing an interest in Brazilian football and seeking cooperation to elevate the standards of football in Bangladesh.
In a gesture of diplomatic goodwill, the visiting Brazilian Foreign Minister extended an invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to Prime Minister Hasina to attend the final meeting of the G20 Task Force for the creation of Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty in Rio de Janerio on 24th July. The prime minister accepted the invitation.
The G20 is made up of 19 countries and the EU. The 19 countries are: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, and the US. Brazil holds the Presidency in 2024.
The discussions further ventured into global political arena, with Vieira commending Bangladesh for its stance against the ongoing conflict in Gaza and aligning with Bangladesh's condemnation of the Israeli aggression as genocide.
“They (Israel) have violated all kinds of international norms, they bombed hospitals, continue killing in the shelter camps… this is not a war, this is genocide,” the PM was quoted as saying.
She mentioned that Israeli forces are not even sparing children, women and the elderly.
Praising the socio-economic progress of Bangladesh under Prime Minister Hasina's leadership, Vieira expressed Brazil's interest in learning from Bangladesh's development experience, noting the similarities between the two populous nations in their battles against poverty and hunger.
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The visit, marked by Vieira's presentation of a Brazil National Football Team jersey to Prime Minister Hasina, bearing her name, underscored the amicable discussions and the mutual desire to explore avenues for cooperation and shared growth.
Leading a delegation of high officials and a robust trade team, this is the Brazilian Foreign Minister’s first visit to Bangladesh, opening new chapters in the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Brazil.
PM Hasina likely to travel to India and China in first bilateral visits since forming new govt
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to embark on bilateral visits to New Delhi and Beijing within the next three months, marking her first such engagements after the January 7 national election. These visits are aimed at deepening Bangladesh's connections with India and China, Asia's two leading economic powers.
Following the formation of the new government, Prime Minister Hasina attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany in February, highlighting her active engagement on the global stage.
Diplomatic sources indicate that PM Hasina's visit to India is planned after the conclusion of the neighbouring country’s national election, which is the world's largest democratic exercise, spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with the vote count set for June 4.
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Pre-election surveys suggest a strong showing for the coalition led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is widely anticipated to secure re-election.
"Prime Minister's (Sheikh Hasina) India visit will definitely take place. However, it will take place after the election in India," Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said.
He said it is not yet discussed at the official level when the visit will exactly take place.
In January, Prime Minister Modi extended warm congratulations to PM Hasina on her electoral victory, expressing hopes for the continued strengthening of the historically close ties between India and Bangladesh.
The last bilateral engagement between PM Modi and PM Hasina occurred during the G-20 Leaders Summit in September 2023, where Bangladesh was the guest country.
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PM Modi is expected to extend invitations to South Asian and BIMSTEC country leaders for his swearing-in ceremony, fostering regional cooperation.
Additionally, PM Hasina's forthcoming visit to China in July was underscored during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who reiterated China's commitment to boosting investment in Bangladesh and enhancing bilateral relations.
Ambassador Yao emphasised the significance of the visit in promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange, aligning with Bangladesh's aspirations for "Vision 2041" and the realisation of a "Smart Bangladesh."
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Bangladesh, Bhutan sign three new MoUs
Bangladesh and Bhutan on Monday (March 25, 2024) signed three new memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to enhance mutual cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
The MoUs are: Establishment of a Special Economic Zone in Kurigram, Setting up a Burn and Plastic Surgery Unit in Thimphu, and technical cooperation on consumer rights.
Another MoU on cultural exchange was renewed.
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Health Minister Smanta Lal Sen, Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) Shaikh Yusuf Harun, Directorate of National Consumers' Right Protection Director General (Additional Secretary) A.H.M. Shafiquzzaman and Cultural Affairs Secretary Khalil Ahmed signed the MoUs from Bangladesh side.
Bhutanese Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk, Bhutanese Commerce Secretary Tashi Wangmk and Bhutanese Foreign Secretary Pema Choden signed the MoUs on behalf of their country.
Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina witnessed the MoU signing agreement held at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Besides, Bangladesh offered to increase the number of annual medical seats for Bhutanese students from 22 to 30 while the foreign service academy of Bangladesh offered two seats for the Bhutanese foreign service officers every year for capacity building. Bangladesh will also extend necessary assistance in setting up a Diplomatic Training Institute in Bhutan.
Apart from this, Bangladesh offered special training to Bhutanese officials in Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) annually for three years.
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As a special gesture of goodwill and friendship, Bangladesh handed over computers and laptops for the capacity building and skills development of the government officials of Bhutan.
Earlier, on his arrival, the Bhutanese King was received by the Prime Minister at her office.
The Bhutanese King held a delegation-level meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prior to the MoU signing ceremony.
They will also had a one-to-one meeting.
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‘None can truly comprehend the depth of sorrow that comes with losing loved ones, as I do’: PM at BGB HQ
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressed the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) during their annual day parade on Monday (March 04, 2024), emphasizing the paramount importance of adhering to the chain of command for maintaining discipline within the ranks.
“Keep in mind that the chain of command is the most important driving power for a disciplined force. Never break the discipline; continue following the chain of command,” Sheikh Hasina urged the BGB members.
The premier was addressing the parade of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Day-2024 at its headquarters in Dhaka.
The Prime Minister reflected on her government’s initiatives to bolster the BGB, citing the enactment of the Border Guard Bangladesh Act 2010 as a pivotal step towards enhancing the force's capabilities. “Now BGB has been built as an efficient, strong, modern three-dimensional force,” she said, adding that BGB is now capable of performing its duty on land, water, and air.
She said the Awami League government adopted the ‘Border Guard Bangladesh Vision-2041’ in a bid to develop the BGB as a world-class border guard force.
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“We want Border Guard Bangladesh to be developed as a world-class border force, and march forward as border sentinels, becoming a symbol of trust for the people of Bangladesh,” she said adding that BGB will also be a smart force in Smart Bangladesh by 2041.
The prime minister appreciated the role of protecting the country’s borders and combating different border crimes, and standing beside the people during any crisis in the country.
“Alongside protecting the border, the BGB resisted different border crimes including smuggling, drug and women, children trafficking in a responsible manner,” she said.
Apart from playing the role as sentinels on the border, the BGB stands beside the people during any problem like arson violence in the country and always plays a role in protecting the lives and property, and thus they gained the trust and confidence of the nation, she said.
Recalling the 2009 BDR mutiny, Prime Minister Hasina shared her deep emotional connection to the tragedy, in which 74 individuals, including 57 distinguished officers, were tragically killed. The events unfolded on February 25 and 26, 2009, marking one of the darkest chapters in Bangladesh’s history.
PM said that she feels a profound sorrow, remembering the lives lost during the mutiny. She offered prayers for the souls of the deceased and extended her heartfelt condolences to their families. “No one can truly comprehend the depth of sorrow that comes with losing loved ones, as I do,” Hasina stated, emphasising her personal empathy for the bereaved families.
The Prime Minister reassured that those responsible for the mutiny have been held accountable, expressing her hope that such a tragedy will never be repeated.
Turning to the advancements made under her leadership, the PM outlined significant steps taken to modernise the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), noting the recruitment of 35,517 soldiers over the past 15 years. A notable milestone in inclusivity, her government initiated the integration of women into the force, with 936 female soldiers joining since 2015.
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In response to emerging threats, her administration has implemented the ‘Smart Digital Surveillance and Tactical Border Response System’ across vulnerable sections of the border, enhancing surveillance capabilities and bolstering defences against trans-border terrorism.
Further emphasizing her commitment to border security and regional development, Hasina highlighted the construction of 1,036 km of border roads. This infrastructure project aims not only to secure the hilly border areas but also to improve the socio-economic conditions of remote communities.
The prime minister inspected a spectacular parade arranged at Bir Uttam Anwar Hossain Parade Ground in Pilkhana, riding on an open decorated vehicle, and then received salute of the march-past.
She handed over the BGB Medal, President BGB Medal, BGB Medal-Service and President BGB Medal-Service to 72 selected BGB personnel in recognition of their heroic and outstanding contribution to different activities of the force.
The PM unveiled a sculpture of Bangabandhu titled “Prerona” at the BGB headquarters.
Earlier, on her arrival, Sheikh Hasina was received by Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqu.
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PM says no to large Iftar party at govt level
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has instructed not to organise large Iftar parties at the government-level during the upcoming Ramadan.
She gave the instruction while chairing the Cabinet meeting at her office in the city.
“There is an instruction from the Prime Minister and that is, no big iftar party can be arranged officially during the month of Ramadan,” said Cabinet Secretary Mahbub Hossain.
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Replying to a question, he said the arrangement of large iftar parties at private level was also discouraged. “It has been said that if someone really wants, then the person should distribute foods among the poor people by purchasing the food with the money,” said the Cabinet Secretary.
The holy month of Ramadan is scheduled to start from March 12 depending on sighting of the moon.
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PM Hasina writes back to Biden
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has written back to US President Joe Biden.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud handed over a copy of the letter to Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for South Asia, US National Security Council (NSC), Eileen Laubacher on Sunday.
It is a response to the letter sent by the US President to the Bangladesh Prime Minister.
Bangladesh Ambassador to USA, Muhammad Imran, will hand over the original copy of the letter to White House.
The Foreign Minister has said that they want a new chapter of relations with Bangladesh.
“We want to begin a new chapter of relations with them,” he said, adding that the nations will benefit through strengthening the relations.
Eileen Laubacher led an inter-agency US delegation during her meeting with Foreign Minister Hasan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday.
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The USAID’s Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia Michael Schiffer, the US Department of States Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) Afreen Akhter, and CDA of the US Embassy in Dhaka Helen LaFave were present at the meeting.
Besides, Bangladesh Ambassador to the US Muhammad Imran and Director General of Foreign Ministry’s North America Wing Khandker Masudul Alam and other officials from the ministry were present.
The discussions centred around exploring new avenues to deepening the existing relationship. Economic cooperation, trade and investment, Rohingya humanitarian response, climate change, and energy were in focus during the meeting.
The Foreign Minister reiterated Bangladesh’s steadfast position in favour of peace and against any form of war.
He asked for US to use its leverage to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
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Hasan also hoped for the Russia-Ukraine war to end.
The extradition of Bangabandhu’s self-confessed killer Rashed Chowdhury from the US was also discussed.
He also asked for the withdrawal of the US sanction on RAB.
Earlier, US President Joe Biden wrote to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressing his willingness to work together to achieve Bangladesh’s economic goals. He also expressed willingness to partnering with Bangladesh on the shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
As the two countries embark on the next chapter of the US-Bangladesh partnership, Biden said he wants to convey the sincere desire of his administration to continue their work together on regional and global security, economic development, climate change and energy, global health, humanitarian support, especially for Rohingya refugees, and more.
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“We have a long and successful history of working together to solve problems, and our strong people-to-people ties are the foundation of this relationship,” the US President wrote to PM Sheikh Hasina.
European Commission President pledges enhanced cooperation with Bangladesh under PM Hasina’s new term
Congratulating Sheikh Hasina on her recent re-appointment as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said she looks forward to continue working with PM Hasina towards further strengthening the relations between the European Union and Bangladesh in the coming years.
“The European Union is committed to cooperating with Bangladesh on sustainable development, climate change, migration, and other issues of shared interest,” said the head of the European Commission in a letter to PM Hasina.
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The European Commission President said she had the pleasure of meeting PM Hasina in Brussels in 2023 on the occasion of the Global Gateway Forum.
“This also marked the formal launch of negotiations on a new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which aims to broaden and modernize the framework for our partnership,” she mentioned.
“Within the framework of our long-term partnership with Bangladesh, the European Union will continue to work with Bangladesh to uphold and advance the shared priorities of democracy, human rights and the rule of law that underpin our relations,” said the European Commission President, wishing PM Hasina every success.
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Outcomes of Hasina-Scholz bilateral talks on sidelines of MSC 2024
Germany and Bangladesh have agreed it is best to end the Russia-Ukraine war and the attack on Gaza.
The consensus came when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference 2024 on Saturday (February 17, 2024).
"A detailed discussion was held between the Bangladesh Prime Minister and the German Chancellor about ending wars, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war and attack on Gaza," Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud said, while briefing media regarding the outcome of the meeting between the two leaders.
The meeting between the two leaders was held at Hotel Bayerischer Hof, the conference venue, here, this afternoon.
Both the leaders, Bangladesh Premier and the Chancellor of Germany, agreed that none will be benefited through war.
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Quoting the German Chancellor, Dr Hasan Mahmud said, "The only process of establishing peace is to stop war."
The prime minister called upon the German Chancellor to make investment in various sectors of Bangladesh including the IT sector as Germany is advanced in high technology industries.
Mentioning that Bangladesh is establishing 100 economic zones across the country, Sheikh Hasina said,"Germany can invest in Bangladesh."
The Prime Minister invited the German Chancellor to visit Bangladesh and he accepted the invitation.
Sheikh Hasina recalled the contribution of Germany in rebuilding independent Bangladesh after the Liberation War.
The two leaders also discussed exporting more Bangladeshi products to Germany as it is the highest exporting country from Bangladesh to the EU.
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They also talked about sending skilled Bangladeshi manpower to Germany as the country is welcoming skilled labour from around the globe.
During the bilateral meeting held after a long time in a very warm environment, Olaf Scholz again congratulated Sheikh Hasina on her reelection as Bangladesh prime minister for the fifth term and fourth in a row.
Earlier in the morning, Germany Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development called on the Bangladesh PM at the Conference venue here.
During the meeting, she offered Germany a dedicated place for investment in economic zones being set up across the country. Senior Secretary of Foreign Affairs Masud Bin Momen and Ambassador to Germany Md Mosharraf Hossain Bhuiyan, were present, among others.
Sheikh Hasina arrived in Germany to attend three-day MSC 2024 on February 15 evening.
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PM Hasina off to Germany to attend Munich Security Conference
Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left here for Germany on Thursday (February 15, 2024) morning on a three-day official visit to attend the Munich Security Conference.
This is her first official tour abroad since being re-elected as the prime minister for the fourth consecutive term in last month's parliamentary polls.
The Munich Security Conference is considered the world's leading forum for debating security issues.
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A flight of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11 am carrying the prime minister and her entourage members.
During her stay in Munich from February 16-18, Sheikh Hasina will also hold meetings with German chancellor, Ukraine's president, prime ministers of Denmark and the Netherlands on the sidelines of the security conference.
Indian external affairs minister will also call on the Bangladesh prime minister.
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