United News of Bangladesh

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will miss Saturday’s German Cup final against defending champion VfB Stuttgart because of a calf injury, raising concerns over his fitness ahead of Germany’s World Cup campaign. Bayern said Friday that the 40-year-old goalkeeper has “muscle problems in the left calf” and will not be included in the squad for the final. However, the club did not say how long he could remain sidelined. Neuer, who has struggled with injuries this season, picked up the latest problem during Bayern’s final Bundesliga match against Cologne last weekend. The club later said he would need to take a break for the time being. His return to the Germany national team after two years of international retirement was one of the biggest talking points when coach Julian Nagelsmann announced the World Cup squad on Thursday. Nagelsmann confirmed that Neuer would return as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper for the tournament. Germany will open their World Cup campaign against Curacao in Houston on June 14. The four-time world champion will also play Ivory Coast and Ecuador in Group E. The team is scheduled to begin preparations in Herzogenaurach on May 27 before playing warm-up matches against Finland in Mainz on May 31 and the United States in Chicago on June 6.

German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rüdiger Lotz on Wednesday expressed Germany’s strong interest in expanding collaboration with Bangladesh in strategic sectors, including technology, skilled manpower, renewable energy, research and innovation-driven industries. “Germany is currently one of Bangladesh’s largest export destinations and an important trade partner in Europe. Beyond the ready-made garment sector, there are significant opportunities to expand cooperation in technology, skilled human resources, renewable energy, research, and innovation-based industries,” he said. The Ambassador made the remarks while speaking at the second session of the “Meet the Ambassador” series held at the Senate Hall of Jahangirnagar University. The event organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS), in collaboration with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Bangladesh, brought together diplomats, academics, political leaders, students, researchers, and media professionals. Discussions focused on Bangladesh-Germany relations, academic cooperation, youth engagement, and areas of mutual interest. Rüdiger Lotz further stated that the world is entering a multipolar international order, where dialogue and cooperation between states are becoming increasingly important. In this context, Bangladesh and Germany both value democratic principles, international cooperation, and dialogue-based engagement. He emphasised that people-to-people contact, education, and skills development will further strengthen bilateral relations in the future. Expressing his pleasure at visiting Jahangirnagar University, the Ambassador said the campus was highly inspiring and vibrant. He noted that today’s students will become the future leaders of Bangladesh – as diplomats, policymakers, researchers, and development professionals – and therefore must develop skills, knowledge, and a strong sense of responsibility. He also highlighted Germany’s cooperation with Bangladesh in areas such as climate change mitigation, renewable energy, labour rights, skills development, technical training, and good governance. He added that Germany continues to provide humanitarian support in addressing the Rohingya crisis. During the question-and-answer session, moderator CGS President Zillur Rahman raised key issues, including bilateral relations, trade, higher education, skills development, migration, climate change, and the Rohingya crisis. Responding to a question on the future of Bangladesh-Germany relations, Rüdiger Lotz said there is significant potential for further strengthening ties. He noted that Germany is already playing an important role in trade, investment, skills development, climate cooperation, and higher education, and that future cooperation could expand further in technology transfer, industrial diversification, and human resource development. On the issue of visa delays for Bangladeshi students applying for higher education in Germany, he explained that there is currently a large backlog of applications – around 60,000 cases under process. The Ambassador noted that many applicants apply multiple times and that each application requires thorough verification of documents. In some cases, false or inaccurate documentation is also identified, requiring additional scrutiny and time-consuming evaluation. He further stated that in some instances, students attempt to enter the labour market instead of pursuing studies, which also requires careful assessment by visa authorities. However, he expressed optimism that once the backlog is reduced, visa processing time will improve significantly. Rüdiger Lotz reaffirmed Germany’s interest in welcoming more Bangladeshi students for higher education. JU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Kamrul Ahsan said initiatives like the “Meet the Ambassador” provide students with valuable opportunities to understand global politics, higher education, and international cooperation. FES Bangladesh Resident Representative Dr Felix Gerdes emphasised that such dialogues help young people better understand global politics, diplomacy, and international relations.

Germany’s defence minister said the United States’ decision to withdraw about 5,000 troops from the country was “foreseeable,” as NATO seeks more details from Washington amid concerns over the alliance’s future. Speaking to DPA news agency, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the presence of US forces in Europe  especially in Germany  remains important for both sides. He added that Berlin still values close military cooperation with Washington. NATO spokeswoman Allison Hart said the alliance is in talks with the US to better understand the scope and impact of the decision. President Donald Trump indicated that more cuts could follow. Asked about the troop withdrawal, he said the US would reduce its forces “way down,” suggesting the number could be far higher than 5,000, though he gave no specifics. The move comes after tensions between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently criticised the US over its handling of negotiations with Iran, saying Washington had been “humiliated.” The US currently has more than 36,000 troops stationed in Germany — its largest military presence in Europe compared to about 12,000 in Italy and 10,000 in the United Kingdom. Trump has also floated the idea of reducing troop levels in Italy and Spain. The decision follows earlier steps to scale back US forces in Romania, part of a broader strategy to shift military focus toward the Indo-Pacific region. The latest move has raised concerns within the 32-member NATO alliance that reduced US presence could weaken collective security. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that internal divisions, rather than external threats, pose the greatest risk to the transatlantic alliance and urged members to act to reverse the trend. In Washington, senior Republican lawmakers also voiced concern. Senator Roger Wicker and Representative Mike Rogers said maintaining a strong US military presence in Europe is vital for deterrence. Pistorius said Europe must take on greater responsibility for its own security, noting that Germany has significantly increased defence spending in recent years. Under the current government, Germany’s defence budget is expected to rise to €105.8 billion by 2027, pushing total defence-related spending to about 3.1% of GDP, including support for Ukraine. Trump has long criticised NATO allies, including Germany, for not meeting defence spending targets, though Berlin has recently moved closer to those goals. NATO officials say the US decision highlights the need for European countries to further boost defence investment and share more of the security burden. The troop withdrawal is expected to be completed within six to twelve months, according to the Pentagon. Tensions between Trump and allies have also grown over disagreements on military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted shipping following US and Israeli strikes earlier this year. With inputs from BBC

The Pentagon announced Friday that the United States will remove around 5,000 troops from Germany within the next six to twelve months, following through on President Donald Trump’s earlier warning. The decision comes amid growing tensions between Washington and Berlin, particularly after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the U.S. approach to the war with Iran and described the country as being “humiliated” by Iranian leadership. According to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell, the move is based on a comprehensive review of U.S. military positioning in Europe, taking into account operational needs and current conditions. Germany currently hosts key American military installations, including major command headquarters, Ramstein Air Base, and a military hospital in Landstuhl. About 36,000 U.S. troops are stationed there, meaning the withdrawal represents roughly 14% of the total. The plan has sparked immediate criticism from Democratic lawmakers and defense experts, who argue it could weaken U.S. alliances and benefit Russia. Senator Jack Reed warned that the decision signals instability in U.S. commitments to its allies and urged the president to reconsider before causing lasting damage to national security. Analysts also noted that the U.S. presence in Europe plays a critical role in deterring Russian aggression and enabling operations in nearby regions. Trump did not address questions about the withdrawal as he departed Florida on Friday. He has long criticized NATO allies for not contributing enough to joint defense efforts and has repeatedly suggested reducing U.S. troop levels in Germany. A similar proposal during his first term was never implemented and was later canceled by President Joe Biden. European allies have anticipated potential troop reductions since Trump returned to office, especially as Washington has signaled that Europe may need to take greater responsibility for its own security. Military experts say concerns now extend beyond troop numbers to possible redeployment of key defense systems, such as missile defenses, from Europe to the Middle East. 

China and Germany on Wednesday pledged to strengthen ties despite major differences, including over Russia’s war in Ukraine, as both sides seek stability in a turbulent global environment. The commitment came as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met separately in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The leaders of the world’s second- and third-largest economies stressed the need for deeper communication and trust at a time of rising geopolitical tensions and shifting global dynamics. Xi said that the more complex and uncertain the world becomes, the more China and Germany should enhance strategic communication and mutual trust. He also noted that the world is facing the most profound changes since World War II. Merz responded that while challenges and disagreements exist, both countries should focus on shared interests and tackle global challenges together. On his first China visit since taking office in May, Merz highlighted Beijing’s key role in addressing global issues, including the Ukraine conflict. After the meetings, he said he had urged Chinese leaders to use their influence to help end the war, noting that signals from Beijing are taken seriously in Moscow. China reiterated support for a political settlement, saying any solution must address the legitimate concerns of all sides and involve equal participation. The visit comes as many world leaders head to Beijing while China seeks broader support against US tariff policies introduced by President Donald Trump and challenges to the post-World War II global order. Merz stressed that Europe wants a balanced, reliable and fair partnership with China. However, trade imbalances remain a concern. Germany’s imports from China rose 8.8% to 170.6 billion euros last year, while exports to China fell 9.7% to 81.3 billion euros. European leaders also want more Chinese investment in local manufacturing and reduced industrial overcapacity in sectors like electric vehicles and solar panels. Merz said he was satisfied with the talks and pointed to potential business cooperation, including a possible Chinese order for up to 120 Airbus planes. He also plans to visit Hangzhou’s tech hub, including robotics firm Unitree, before heading to Washington for further talks.  

Parliamentary State Secretary to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Member of German Bundestag, Johann Saathoff has said Germany remains firmly committed to supporting Bangladesh and the international community in seeking durable solutions for the Rohingya. "The Rohingya people deserve the opportunity to return home voluntarily, safely, and with dignity — but lasting peace and stability in Myanmar are essential for that to happen. Until then, we will continue to stand by Bangladesh and all those working to support both refugees and host communities," he said. Saathoff visited Bangladesh from October 27–28 to deepen bilateral relations and uphold and demonstrate Germany’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in its development and humanitarian priorities. Bangladesh, Pakistan pledge stronger ties to boost mutual progress During his visit, Saathoff met senior government representatives, including Secretary of the Economic Relations Division under Ministry of Finance, Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, as well as representatives from the United Nations, international partners, and civil society. Discussions focused on shared priorities in sustainable development, economic growth, and the humanitarian situation in Cox’s Bazar. Together with German Ambassador Dr. Rüdiger Lotz and a delegation from BMZ, Saathoff travelled to Cox’s Bazar to meet with representatives of Unicef and local partners, and to observe ongoing efforts supporting the Rohingyas and host communities. The visit highlighted Germany’s continued solidarity with Bangladesh in addressing development and humanitarian challenges. Germany continues to be one of Bangladesh’s key partners in development cooperation, focusing on climate and energy, good governance and sustainable economic growth, said the German Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday.    

Describing Germany as Bangladesh’s biggest trade partner in Europe, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday expressed optimism that newly appointed German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rüdiger Lotz would work to boost trade and investment. The German Ambassador paid a courtesy call on the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna and discussed issues of mutual interest. The Chief Adviser extended his warmest greetings to the German Ambassador on assuming his duties in Bangladesh and expressed the hope that the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Germany would reach a new height during his stay here. During the meeting, the Ambassador showed support for the interim government and enquired about the preparations for the national election in February 2026. He said that it was encouraging to see that people in Bangladesh were becoming more engaged in the democratic process, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Partnership with Bangladesh can deepen as strategic alignment: Saudi Minister The German Ambassador also praised the government’s reform efforts, especially the July National Charter. “It’s good to see political parties sitting down together and having conversations. The country should continue these reform initiatives after the election.”  The Chief Adviser said the National Consensus Commission did an excellent job by bringing major political parties together to sign the Charter. “It was a historic moment that showed unity and a shared commitment to change. It also helps build trust before the upcoming election. The government is doing everything possible to ensure the February election is peaceful and joyful,” he said.  The Ambassador also spoke about the rising number of Bangladeshi students who want to study in Germany. Bangladesh a key partner in Bay of Bengal, wider Indo-Pacific: EU The Chief Adviser and the Ambassador both welcomed the growing connections between the people of the two countries. They also discussed the situation of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and Germany’s support in this area. Prof Yunus also spoke about the power of young people. “Thanks to technology and social media, today’s youth can speak up, connect with others easily, and spot injustice,” he said. He, however, also warned about the dangers of false information. “Disinformation is one of the biggest challenges we face before the election.” 

Germany has made its highest-ever contribution to tackling climate change and supporting vulnerable countries like Bangladesh, according to the latest figures reported to the European Commission for 2024. Germany’s total contributions last year reached EUR 11.8 billion (USD 13.86 billion), marking a new record in financing global climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. Of the total amount, EUR 6.1 billion came directly from the federal budget, with nearly EUR 1.5 billion allocated for conserving natural ecosystems such as forests, peatlands, and oceans. Alongside renewable energy and other climate technologies, these conservation efforts form a vital part of global climate action. For the first time, Germany also mobilised more than EUR 1 billion in private sector funding for climate investment, a milestone in broadening financial participation in environmental initiatives. Bangladesh, identified as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, has already begun benefiting from this support and remains eligible for further assistance in the future. Germany’s Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Carsten Schneider reaffirmed his country’s commitment to international cooperation. More words than action, Salehuddin slams weak global support for climate funds “Germany maintains its spirit of solidarity and stands by its commitments to international cooperation. That is an essential basis for successful negotiations at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belém,” Schneider said. “Climate action can only succeed if countries can be trusted to keep their promises. We are seeing encouraging figures in the mobilisation of private investment. Electricity from wind and solar power is becoming cheaper and therefore needs less support from the public purse. This means that in future we can direct more of our limited public funds towards climate change adaptation. We will be discussing that issue in Belém as well,” he added.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday said Germany has always been a dependable partner in Bangladesh’s development journey. The chief adviser underscored Germany’s vital role as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner in Europe and acknowledged its continued development assistance. He made the remarks when Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Bangladesh Achim Troster paid a farewell call on him at the State Guest House Jamuna, marking the end of his four-year diplomatic tenure in Dhaka. During the meeting, the chief adviser warmly congratulated Ambassador Troster on the successful completion of his assignment and expressed appreciation for his efforts in strengthening Bangladesh-Germany relations. Ambassador Tröster reflected on his time in Bangladesh with deep affection. “I’ve had many interesting postings in my career, but Bangladesh truly stands out,” he said. “The hospitality of the Bangladeshi people has been overwhelming, and I leave with immense gratitude and respect.” “The Investment Summit was a good effort. I wish Bangladesh all the best, and I wish the interim government’s reform process every success. I also hope a fair and free election will be held,” Chief Adviser’s press wing quoted the Ambassador as saying. Bangladesh, South Korea eye stronger infrastructure ties Prof Yunus also expressed particular appreciation for Germany’s humanitarian support for the Rohingya population. “We’re grateful for your country’s unwavering support in critical areas, especially to Rohingya refugee aid,” he said. As the meeting concluded, the Chief Adviser remarked, “Even after your departure, we hope to hear from you, be it positive or critical, because your insights matter to us. We consider you a true friend of Bangladesh.” SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed and Director General of the West Europe & EU at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with Md Mosharaf Hossain were also present during the meeting.

Germany’s economy, the largest in Europe, recorded a 0.4% growth in the first quarter of the year, driven by stronger-than-expected performance in exports and manufacturing, according to official data released on Friday. This marks a doubling of the initial estimate. The Federal Statistical Office had previously stated at the end of last month that the economy grew by 0.2% in the January to March period compared to the previous quarter. Ruth Brandt, the head of the office, attributed the upward revision to “the surprisingly good economic development seen in March.”  UK inflation hits highest level in over a year as domestic bills spike The last time Germany experienced higher growth was in the third quarter of 2022, when GDP rose by 0.6%. The country has faced persistent challenges in achieving strong economic growth, with the economy contracting in each of the past two years. In the final quarter of last year, GDP declined by 0.2%. In its initial projection since the new government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz assumed office earlier this month, the government’s panel of independent economic advisers forecast on Wednesday that GDP will stagnate in the current year and rise by 1% in 2026. The panel cited challenges from tariffs and trade threats imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump but also highlighted the potential benefits from a significant infrastructure investment initiative introduced by Merz’s coalition. Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING bank, noted that the improved performance in the first quarter is likely “a positive one-off” in the short term, driven by companies rushing to act before Trump's tariffs take effect.  German police arrest a suspect, injured 5 people outside bar attack “Due to the announced tariffs and in anticipation of ‘Liberation Day,’ German industrial production and exports surged in March,” Brzeski wrote in a research note.