Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday urged the Prime Minister of Thailand, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to ease visa procedures for the Bangladeshi citizens travelling to the South East Asian kingdom. The head of the Interim Government raised the issue when he met the Thai Prime Minister on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in the Thai capital, Bangkok. The Chief Adviser said the Thai embassy in Dhaka does not have the capacity to process more visas, resulting in a long delay and queue of the Bangladeshi people waiting to travel to Thailand. "Bangladeshi people who seek treatment in Thailand face a lot of visa difficulties," Professor Yunus said and sought the Thai Prime Minister's support in this regard. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured the Bangladesh leader that she would look into the issue. The Chief Adviser also called for expanded trade, shipping and maritime relations, and air connectivity between the two countries. Professor Yunus said Bangladesh and Thailand can reduce travel time if flights are launched from Chittagong. He recalled the impact made by Air Asia when it launched a flight between Chittagong and the Thai resort city of Chiang Mai more than a decade ago. Bangladesh seeks Sri Lanka's support to bring back stolen money The Thai Prime Minister congratulated Professor Yunus on assuming the chairmanship of BIMSTEC, saying the Bangladesh leader will infuse new dynamism in the regional grouping. Professor Yunus began his meeting by reflecting on the longstanding and excellent bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Thailand. He paid tribute to the late King Bhumibol, who played a key role in Thailand’s early recognition of an independent Bangladesh in 1972. The discussion also focused on investment, with Professor Yunus inviting Thai companies to join next week's investment summit in Dhaka. He also highlighted the importance of improving rail, road, maritime, and air connectivity between the two nations to facilitate increased bilateral trade. In this context, he suggested that Bangladesh would like to participate in the trilateral highway project involving Thailand, India, and Myanmar when conditions permit. Professor Yunus proposed that both countries initiate a Joint Feasibility Study for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as soon as possible, with a view to starting formal negotiations. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said he will meet the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries to discuss ways for strengthening collaboration, keeping the interests of people in mind. "I look forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries and engaging productively to further strengthen our collaboration with interests of our people in mind," Modi said in his departure statement as he began his visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka on Thursday. Bangladesh sees this year's BIMSTEC Summit, scheduled to be held in Bangkok, Thailand on April 4, "very important" for the country as it will assume the chairmanship of the grouping for the next two years. Dhaka also thinks the summit will provide them with an opportunity to present a "just and inclusive" Bangladesh in South and Southeast Asia, officials said this week. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will reach Bangkok on Thursday afternoon to attend the Summit, his Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Officials in Dhaka indicated that there will be a meeting between Dr Yunus and Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit but did not elaborate further. Dr Yunus leaves for Bangkok to attend 6th BIMSTEC Summit South Asian affairs analyst Michael Kugelman, referring to Bangladesh media rreport, said Modi will meet Yunus at BIMSTEC in Thailand this week. "If true, this will be the biggest India-Bangladesh diplomatic development since (former Prime Minister Sheikh) Hasina’s ouster," Kugelman said in a message shared from his verified X handle. At the invitation of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Indian Prime Minister Modi left for Thailand on an official visit and to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. Over the past decade, Modi said, BIMSTEC has emerged as a significant forum for promoting regional development, connectivity and economic progress in the Bay of Bengal region. "With its geographical location, India’s North Eastern region lies at the heart of BIMSTEC," said the Indian Prime Minister. During his official visit, the Indian Prime Minister will have the opportunity to engage with Thai Prime Minister Shinawatra and the Thai leadership, with a common desire to elevate our age-old historical ties, which are based on the strong foundations of shared culture, philosophy, and spiritual thought. From Thailand, Modi will pay a two-day visit to Sri Lanka from April 4-6. This follows the highly successful visit of President Disanayaka to India last December. "We will have the opportunity to review progress made on the joint vision of “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” and provide further guidance to realise our shared objectives," Modi said. ASEAN MPs look to bar Myanmar from BIMSTEC over human rights concerns He said he remains confident that these visits will build on the foundations of the past and contribute to strengthening their close relationships for the benefit of their people and the wider region.

A devastating earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, causing widespread destruction across the impoverished nation. Officials warned that the death toll, already surpassing 140, was expected to rise. In Thailand, at least six people were killed in Bangkok, where an under-construction high-rise collapsed. The full extent of casualties and damage remains unclear, especially in Myanmar, where a civil war and strict government controls limit information. Myanmar’s military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, announced on television that at least 144 people had died and 730 were injured. In Thailand, officials revised their initial death toll, reducing it from 10 to six, clarifying that some critically injured victims had been mistakenly reported as deceased. What to do if you're in a building during an earthquake? The 7.7-magnitude quake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, at midday, followed by strong aftershocks, including one measuring 6.4. Widespread Devastation in MyanmarMyanmar, located in an active seismic zone, has experienced quakes before, but Friday’s event affected densely populated areas. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated the death toll could exceed 1,000. In Mandalay, multiple buildings collapsed, including a major monastery. Photos from Naypyidaw showed rescuers pulling victims from the rubble of government housing. The disaster has increased demand for blood donations in the worst-hit regions. Myanmar’s government signaled openness to foreign aid, a shift from previous reluctance. The United Nations has allocated $5 million for initial relief efforts. U.S. President Donald Trump pledged American support, though concerns remain about the impact of his administration’s foreign aid cuts on disaster response. Over 150 killed as powerful earthquake strikes Myanmar and Thailand Severe infrastructure damage—including a collapsed bridge and a burst dam—has made rescue efforts challenging. International Rescue Committee official Mohammed Riyas warned that it could take weeks to assess the full scope of destruction. Bridges Collapse, Monastery Falls, and Dam BurstsMyanmar’s state-run newspaper, Global New Light of Myanmar, reported that five cities experienced building collapses, and two bridges fell, including one on a major highway between Mandalay and Yangon. A photo showed the wreckage of an emergency department at Naypyidaw’s main hospital. A video from Mandalay captured monks filming the Ma Soe Yane monastery just before it crumbled. Damage was also reported at the city’s former royal palace. Christian Aid stated that a dam breach in one city led to flooding in low-lying areas. In Yangon, the country’s largest city, residents fled their homes when the quake struck. In Naypyidaw, partially collapsed buildings left rescuers working through piles of debris. Julie Mehigan of Christian Aid highlighted the disaster’s impact on a nation already struggling with conflict and displacement. The military, which seized power from Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in 2021, is engaged in a violent civil war, making aid delivery to affected areas difficult. More than 3 million people have been displaced, with nearly 20 million in need of humanitarian assistance. High-Rise Collapse in BangkokIn Thailand, a 33-story building under construction collapsed near Bangkok’s Chatuchak market, sending a massive cloud of dust into the air. Video footage showed people screaming and fleeing as the structure fell. Emergency sirens echoed across the city as rescue teams worked through the wreckage, where twisted steel and shattered concrete piled up. The injured were rushed to hospitals, some treated on sidewalks. “This is a terrible tragedy,” Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit said after visiting the site. Although earthquakes are not uncommon in the region, tremors are rarely felt in Bangkok, a city of over 17 million residents. Witnesses described swaying buildings and chaotic evacuations. Voranoot Thirawat, a lawyer, described seeing lights swinging and hearing creaking sounds before she and her colleagues fled down 12 flights of stairs. A Scottish tourist, Fraser Morton, recounted the sudden panic inside a shopping mall, while an English visitor, Paul Vincent, witnessed a rooftop pool spilling water as people screamed in the streets. The U.S. Geological Survey and Germany’s GFZ geoscience center reported that the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), making its impact more severe. Quake Felt in China The tremors extended into China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, causing damage and injuries in the border city of Ruili. Residents in Mangshi, about 100 kilometers northeast of Ruili, described the shaking as so intense that standing upright was impossible.   

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dream destination for many travellers, including Bangladeshis. Known for its dazzling temples, bustling street markets, incredible nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine, Bangkok offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.  Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this travel guide will help you explore the best attractions, food, shopping destinations, and travel tips to make your trip from Bangladesh to Bangkok smooth and enjoyable.  Best Things to Do . Explore Chinatown One of the most energetic areas in Bangkok, Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers and photographers. Walk along Yaowarat Road, where you will find sizzling street food, gold shops, and vibrant temples. At night, Chinatown transforms into a lively dining hotspot with vendors selling everything from dim sum to roasted duck. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis

A group of Uyghur men detained in Thailand for over a decade claim that Thai authorities are planning to deport them to China, reports AP., Activists and family members warn that these men face a high risk of persecution, including abuse and torture, if returned. House China panel turns focus to plight of Uyghurs In a letter obtained by the Associated Press, 43 Uyghur men in detention in Bangkok issued a public plea to prevent what they described as an imminent deportation. "We could be imprisoned, and we might even lose our lives," the letter stated, urging international organisations and nations to act swiftly to prevent a "tragic fate." The Uyghurs, a Turkic, predominantly Muslim ethnic group native to China's Xinjiang region, have long faced discrimination and suppression from Beijing. A sweeping crackdown by the Chinese government, described as genocide by some Western nations, has led to the detention of hundreds of thousands of Uyghurs in camps and prisons, where reports of abuse, disease, and deaths have emerged. In 2014, Thai authorities detained over 300 Uyghurs fleeing China near the Malaysian border. In 2015, 109 were forcibly returned to China, sparking international condemnation, while 173 women and children were sent to Turkey. Fifty-three Uyghurs remained in Thai detention, with five dying over the years, including two children. UK people s tribunal hears claims China abused Uyghurs Currently, 48 detainees remain in custody, five of whom are serving sentences after a failed escape attempt. Advocates describe dire conditions in detention, including overcrowding, inadequate food, poor sanitation, and restrictions on contact with families, lawyers, and international organisations. The treatment may violate international law, according to a 2024 letter from UN human rights experts to the Thai government. Thai immigration police claim they are doing their best to care for the detainees. However, records obtained by the AP show that on January 8, officials asked the detainees to sign voluntary deportation papers, reminiscent of documents presented to those deported in 2015. The detainees refused. Sources told the AP that Thai authorities are discussing deportations, with some officials reportedly favouring the move due to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China and expectations of muted backlash from the U.S. amid its presidential transition. Neither the Thai nor Chinese foreign ministries responded to requests for comment. China accuses the Uyghurs of being jihadists but has provided no evidence. Rights groups and Uyghur activists insist the detainees are innocent and warn that deportation could lead to imprisonment or death in China. "There’s no evidence that these 43 Uyghurs have committed any crime," said Peter Irwin of the Uyghur Human Rights Project. "They have the right not to be deported." Relatives and advocates express growing concern. Bilal Ablet, whose brother is among the detainees, described constant fear and frustration. "World governments know about this but seem to ignore it due to Chinese pressure," he said. Despite Thai claims that no other country is willing to accept the Uyghurs, an April 2023 letter from Thailand's Human Rights Commission noted that some countries are ready to resettle them. China rejects UN report on Uyghur rights abuses in Xinjiang Abdullah Muhammad, a Uyghur in Turkey, shared his anguish over his father, one of the detainees. "My father crossed into Thailand illegally but has committed no other crime," he said. "Why are they doing this? We have no connection to terrorism." Although all detainees have submitted asylum applications to the UN refugee agency, the Thai government has barred UN access to them. The UNHCR did not respond to requests for comment. On Saturday, the detention centre where the Uyghurs are held was quiet, with a guard stating it was closed until Monday. Meanwhile, concerns over their safety continue to grow.

A Chinese actor who disappeared after traveling to Thailand and was found near the border of Myanmar in an area where online scam networks operate was a victim of human trafficking, Thai police said Wednesday. Chinese state-owned newspaper The Global Times reported Monday that the family of Wang Xing requested help from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand after the actor went missing at the Thailand-Myanmar border. Authorities found Wang on Tuesday in Myanmar and brought him to Thailand for questioning, Thai police said. Photos and videos showed Wang sitting with the police in the Thai border town of Mae Sot with his head shaved. Wang told the police that he was lured by a promise of a job casting by a major Thai entertainment company, but instead was taken across the border into Myanmar, where police believe he was put to work in a call scam operation targeting Chinese people, said Senior Inspector General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot. Salman Khan's Galaxy apartment undergoes security enhancements amid threats The area is known as a haven for criminal syndicates who have forced hundreds of thousands of people in Southeast Asia into participating in online scams including false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches and illegal gambling schemes. Many of the victims are trapped in virtual slavery. There also are allegations of drug trafficking. An initial review of chat logs on Wang's phone confirmed his story, Thatchai told the Thai PBS TV. He said Wang told police there were about 50 other Chinese at the same location. Like him, all had their heads shaved, he told police. He said he was too scared to resist or try to escape. Criminal activity has flourished in border areas of military-ruled Myanmar, where fighting has pitted armed ethnic groups against the army for decades. Chinese authorities have said they had cracked down on criminal syndicates in joint operations with neighboring countries that led to thousands of people being returned to China, but those campaigns did not include arrests of ring leaders in Myanmar. Chinese investors operate casino complexes in what amounts to autonomous development zones in cooperation with Myanmar's Border Guard Force, a militia belonging to the ethnic Karen minority. Wang’s disappearance received attention after an internet user who claimed to be his girlfriend posted about it on Chinese social media, according to The Global Times. Wang has featured in popular Chinese TV dramas. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Tuesday said the government was working as best it could to mitigate any impact the case might have on the reputation of Thailand as a safe tourist destination.

Imagine yourself basking under the warm sun on a postcard-perfect island, where palm trees sway gently along powdery beaches, and crystal-clear waters shimmer endlessly. Welcome to Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island and a must-visit tropical paradise that enchants travelers from around the globe. In this all-in-one Koh Samui travel guide, uncover the island’s hidden gems, explore its cultural landmarks, and find out why this breathtaking destination deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list. Whether it’s relaxing on secluded beaches or visiting ancient temples, your unforgettable Koh Samui adventure starts here! Location and Naming History Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, with a distinct area of 228.7 square kilometres. Situated on the east coast of the country, the island is a place blessed with natural scenic beauty. In Thai, the word “Ko” means island. However, the origin of the word “Samui” is still unknown. Local people believe that the island got its name from the native tree named Mui. Others associate the Sanskrit-Tamil root “S̄mwy” as the origin, which means “sea weather.” Read more: Discover Ha Long Bay: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam’s Natural Wonder Koh Samui has always been a great attraction for travellers. According to a 1998 report, the island used to receive around 700,000 visitors. In 2020, that number declined due to COVID-19's global impact. Even so, 2023 has observed a steep increase, measuring over 200,000 annual visitors. How to Reach Koh Samui Only two islands in Thailand have international airports; Koh Samui is one of them. Travellers can directly reach the island by air. However, most travellers like to take off in Bangkok or Phuket first and then take a second flight to Koh Samui. It takes about an hour to land in Koh Samui from both airports. But once you are in Thailand, you can also take a bus and ferry combined route. Many tour agencies and private service runners offer combo tickets. This may require you to change your vehicles multiple times and be a much slower journey; nonetheless, it will make your travel more meaningful by letting you see more of Thailand. Read more: Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide: Top Things to See and Do in Thailand’s Coastal Gem

Thailand, famously known as the "Land of Smiles," is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. Among the attractions, Pattaya is a vibrant coastal city that offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Discover why Pattaya should be at the top of your travel bucket list! Location and Significance of Pattaya Pattaya, located on the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, is approximately 100km (62 miles) southeast of Bangkok. A part of Chonburi province, Pattaya is a vibrant city renowned for its picturesque beaches and lively attractions.  Historically, its name stems from “Thap Phraya,” meaning “army of the Phraya,” marking the peaceful surrender of a local leader to King Taksin in the 18th century. Over time, it evolved into "Phatthaya," referencing the seasonal southwest-to-northeast winds. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online The city also serves as a gateway to Coral Island (Koh Larn), a gem in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, Coral Island offers a serene escape and exciting activities like snorkeling and diving. Its significance lies in natural beauty and its role as a symbol of Pattaya’s allure, blending tranquility with adventure. 

Starting January 2, 2025, Bangladeshi citizens can apply for a Thai e-Visa online, streamlining the visa process for travelers. This new service eliminates the need for in-person visits to the Thai embassy, offering a more convenient and accessible way to secure travel authorization to Thailand. How to Apply for Thai e-Visa from Bangladesh . Necessary Documents - Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and two blank pages for immigration stamps.- Recent Passport-Size Photographs: Provide two colored photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm) taken against a white background within the last six months.- Proof of Accommodation: Include hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter if staying with a host.- Return Air Ticket: Submit a confirmed round-trip flight itinerary.- Financial Proof: Provide a bank statement and solvency certificate showing a minimum of 60,000 BDT for individuals or 120,000 BDT for families. Only original documents are accepted.Sponsorship Documents (if applicable): Include a sponsorship letter with the sponsor’s bank statement and proof of relationship.- Employment or Study Proof: Submit a letter from your employer or educational institution with a salary slip or proof of enrollment for students.- Additional Documents (if applicable): Business owners must provide an updated trade license, while professionals like doctors and lawyers need proof of practice, such as a BMDC certificate or Bar Council certificate. Read more: Shopping in Bangkok: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Ensuring all these documents are accurate and complete will help streamline your Thai e-visa application process. Step-by-Step Process To apply for a Thai e-Visa from Bangladesh, follow these steps. First, access the official Thai e-Visa portal at https://www.thaievisa.go.th. Create an account using an active email address and set up a password. Once registered, complete the application form by providing your personal information, and travel details, and uploading scanned copies of the required documents, including your passport, photographs, and financial proofs. For the payment process, Bangladeshi applicants cannot pay directly on the e-Visa website due to technical limitations. Instead, after applying, the system generates a payment summary containing a QR code, reference number, and the fee amount. Applicants must transfer the visa fee to the Thai Embassy’s designated bank account through https://www.combank.net.bd/thaievisa. Cash payments at banks are not accepted. After making the payment, upload the proof of transaction for verification. Read more: Thailand now offering 10-year visa: Who are eligible? Before applying, carefully review all the provided information to ensure accuracy, as errors or omissions may result in delays or rejections. Once the application is submitted, it will typically be processed within 10 working days. Upon approval, the e-visa will be sent via email. Print a copy of the e-visa and present it to the Thai immigration authorities at the port of entry.  Following these steps, Bangladeshi citizens can obtain Thailand’s electronic visas without hassle. Visa Fee and Processing Time Visa fees for Thailand vary depending on the visa type, with single-entry tourist visas typically costing BDT 7,000. Processing time usually takes around 10 working days. The previous application system, which operated through visa application centers, was discontinued on December 24, 2024. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well in advance of their planned travel dates to ensure timely processing and avoid any last-minute complications.  Thai On-arrival visa for Government Officials from Bangladesh As of December 19, Bangladeshi government officials holding official or diplomatic passports are exempt from Thai visa requirements for official and leisure visits. For official visits, travelers must present an invitation letter issued by a Thai ministry, institution, or organization, with a letter from their respective Bangladeshi ministry or agency confirming the travel request.  Read more: Thailand Travel Guide: Top places to visit, amazing things to do For leisure visits, a letter from the affiliated Bangladeshi agency acknowledging the travel request is required. Applicants who need a visa for specific purposes are advised to apply at least seven working days before their planned departure. This ensures adequate time for processing and avoids last-minute delays.  Final Words Thailand’s e-Visa system revolutionizes the visa process for Bangladeshi travelers by offering a fully online application experience, eliminating the need for embassy visits. This convenient system caters to tourists eager to explore Thailand’s beauty and professionals traveling for business, ensuring a seamless solution.  Additionally, the on-arrival visa exemption for Bangladeshi government officials further enhances accessibility while maintaining rigorous documentation standards. By carefully preparing the required documents and following the streamlined e-visa process, Bangladeshi travelers can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey to Thailand, making it a more appealing destination for leisure and professional purposes. Read more: Study in Thailand: Admission process, cost for International Students

The Royal Thai Embassy in Dhaka has announced that it will stop accepting applications for visa stickers starting December 24, 2024, as part of preparations to roll out a new e-Visa system.  According to the announcement, applications for visa stickers submitted before December 24 will still be processed.  Thailand to launch e-Visa for Bangladeshis on Jan 2, 2025; here’s how to apply From January 2, 2025, all Thai visa applications must be submitted through the e-Visa portal at (http://www.thaievisa.go.th).  The transition to the e-Visa system is aimed at streamlining and modernizing the visa application process, ensuring greater convenience for applicants.