United News of Bangladesh

Highlighting Singapore as a key source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin has invited more investment in priority sectors like energy, ICT, telecommunications, port and airport infrastructure, urban development and agro-processing. The Foreign Secretary particularly drew the attention of Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and stressed on cooperation in the health sector in terms of capacity building, sharing of expertise and development of health infrastructure in Bangladesh catering to the growing demand for quality health services. Bangladesh, Türkiye eye stronger ties through enhanced collaboration Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin met Dr Vivian Balakrishnan on Monday in Singapore, following the Foreign-Secretary level bilateral consultations between Bangladesh and Singapore. The Foreign Secretary informed him that both sides had very productive discussions on a number of important issues during the consultations. Dhaka signs OIC Statute for promoting labour rights He praised Singapore’s leadership for championing economic development, good governance and free market economy, standing as an example for the Asian countries, including Bangladesh. The Foreign Secretary also appreciated Singapore for its excellent migrant workers’ regime and thanked the Singapore government for taking care of Bangladesh’s expatriates who are contributing to both the economies. Noting the growing bilateral trade, Jashim Uddin highlighted the import-potential of Bangladeshi products particularly pharmaceuticals, leather goods, RMG, ceramics, bicycles, home textile and footwear in the Singapore market and beyond. He underlined the importance of concluding the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Singapore, under negotiation, to boost bilateral trade. Foreign Minister Balakrishnan heard updates in detail on the Rohingya crisis from Foreign Secretary and reiterated Singapore’s support to Bangladesh on this issue, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In regard to Bangladesh’s bid for Asean sectoral dialogue partner status, he reaffirmed Singapore’s support to Bangladesh saying that two friendly countries would continue to support each other on the regional and global issues of mutual interest. Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin thanked the Foreign Minister and hoped that Singapore would play its role within the Asean platform to build consensus on this matter as a close friend of Bangladesh. Bangladesh, Singapore to finalise FTA by 2026 The Foreign Secretary underlined the significance of regular interactions at the political level and exchange of high-level visits including Foreign Minister’s visit to Bangladesh to further strengthen bilateral ties between two friendly countries.

Bangladesh and Türkiye have expressed optimism that a collaborative endeavour between the two countries would enhance the partnership to new heights, demonstrating a shared dedication to cultivating stronger relationships. A Bangladesh delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, along with Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuj Alam met Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye Hakan Fidan at the latter's office and discussed the issues of shared interests. Bangladesh, Singapore to finalise FTA by 2026 The primary objective of the meeting was to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Türkiye and Bangladesh by resolving outstanding issues and initiating new initiatives. The relationship between Türkiye and Bangladesh is expected to yield substantial benefits as a consequence of this cordial discussion, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday. Bangladesh will be granted access to a comprehensive range of Türkiye's bilateral cooperation sectors, which are typically designated for Türkiye’s closest allied nations. Dhaka signs OIC Statute for promoting labour rights Bangladesh said this development represents an optimistic chapter in the diplomatic engagement between the two countries, opening the door to heightened collaboration, mutual support, and shared growth across various domains.

Bangladesh initially refused to meet Myanmar officials in Bangkok for their leader calling Rohingyas “illegal Bengalis” in his BIMSTEC speech, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder on Saturday. “The meeting took place only after Myanmar agreed to give the disclosure that 180,000 Rohingyas were now fit to return,” he said in a post from his verified Facebook account. BIMSTEC reaffirms its critical role to deal with shared security, challenges Azad said he was “amazed” to see how High Representative Dr Khalilur Rahman handled the whole issue. “He (Rahman) even made Myanmar officials call Rohingyas, which is no small achievement,” said the DPS recalling his experience of covering the Rohingya crisis for almost two decades for multiple outlets such as Reuters, EFE and the Washington Post when he visited every corner of the camp and wrote many stories about their pain and persecution, especially after the 2017 massacre. Azad said he never thought he would come this close to witnessing a defining moment in the crisis, which would finally open the door for their long-awaited repatriation. On Friday, Myanmar authorities confirmed to Bangladesh that out of a list of 800,000 Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh, they have identified 180,000 eligible ones for return to Myanmar. Modi expressed respect for Yunus despite Hasina’s disrespect: CA’s Press Secretary   The original list was provided by Bangladesh in six batches during 2018-2020. The final verification of another 70,000 Rohingyas is pending additional scrutiny of their photographs and names. This was disclosed to Dr Khalilur Rahman by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Myanmar Than Shew at a meeting on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. This is the first such confirmed list that constitutes a major step toward the longstanding resolution of the Rohingya crisis. The Myanmar minister also confirmed that the verification of the remaining 550,000 Rohingyas on the original list will be undertaken on an expeditious basis. Ready to provide further humanitarian support: Dr Yunus tells Myanmar PM There were attempts to start repatriation in 2018 and 2019 but those efforts went unsuccessful as the Rohingyas refused to go back. During the meeting, the High Representative expressed his condolences for the earthquake victims of Myanmar and said Bangladesh was ready to send further humanitarian support for the disaster-stricken people.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday reiterated India's support for a "democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive" Bangladesh during his first- ever bilateral meeting with Professor Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. "Prime Minister Modi urged that rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided," Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri told reporters while briefing after the meeting. Hasina’s extradition, border, water issues featured in Dr Yunus-Modi first-ever talks Modi expressed his conviction that all issues of mutual interest between the two countries would continue to be addressed and resolved bilaterally through constructive discussions, in the interest of their long-standing and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. The Indian Prime Minister underlined that India believes in people-centric approach in a relationship and highlighted the cooperation between the two countries for a long period of time that delivered tangible benefits to people on both sides, He underlined India’s desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism. On the border, strict enforcement of the law and prevention of illegal border crossings, especially at night, are necessary for maintaining border security and stability, according to the readout issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. "Bilateral mechanism could meet as appropriate to review and take forward our ties," Modi said. Prime Minister Modi underlined India’s concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them. He congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC and looked forward to the forum further advancing regional cooperation under its leadership. The leaders agreed to enhance consultations and cooperation to advance regional integration, including under the BIMSTEC framework. We'll hold free, fair, participatory election: Dr Yunus tells BIMSTEC leaders Chief Adviser Dr Yunus presented a photograph to Prime Minister Modi during their bilateral meeting. The photo is about Prime Minister Narendra Modi presenting a gold medal to Dr Yunus at the 102nd Indian Science Congress that took place in Mumbai on January 3, 2015. The bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit is viewed as the most significant development in Dhaka-Delhi relations since the July Uprising in Bangladesh. This was the first-ever in-person meeting between the two South Asian leaders since the formation of Bangladesh's interim government last August 8, following the fall of the previous government three days earlier. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, High Representative to Chief Adviser Khalilur Rahman, Principal Coordinator on SDGs Affairs Lamiya Morshed, CA's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Foreign Secretary Md Jashim, among others, were present at the meeting, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. This is the biggest India-Bangladesh diplomatic development since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, and subsequent flight to Delhi (where she remains), observers say. Earlier, Bangladesh approached India through the diplomatic channel to arrange a meeting between Dr Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the Summit. In his pre-departure statement from India, Modi said he will meet the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries to discuss ways for strengthening collaboration, keeping the interests of people in mind. Dr Yunus seeks collective efforts rising above differences to strengthen BIMSTEC "I look forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC countries and engaging productively to further strengthen our collaboration with the interests of our people in mind," Modi said as he began his visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Friday enquired about the status of Bangladesh’s request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina which remains pending with the Indian government. Dr Yunus discussed the issue during the much-talked-about bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit. He noted that the former Prime Minister had been making inflammatory remarks in various media outlets and attempting to destabilise the situation in Bangladesh, which seemed to be an abuse of the hospitality India has extended to her. "She has consistently made false and inflammatory accusations against the interim government of Bangladesh," Prof Yunus stated. "We request that the Government of India take appropriate measures to restrain her from continuing to make such incendiary statements while she remains in your country," said the Chief Adviser. Addressing the challenges facing the relationship between the two countries, Prof Yunus said, "Excellency, we seek to work together with you to set the relationship on the right track for the benefit of both our peoples." Dr Yunus called for discussions to renew the Ganges Water Treaty and conclude the Teesta Water Sharing Agreement. Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam briefed reporters after the meeting. "All issues of mutual interests were discussed. The meeting was very constructive, productive and fruitful," Alam said about the 40-minute exchange between the two leaders. The bilateral talks on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit is viewed as the most significant development in Dhaka-Delhi relations since the July Uprising in Bangladesh. This was the first-ever in-person meeting between the two South Asian leaders since the formation of Bangladesh's interim government last August 8, following the fall of the previous government three days earlier. Chief Adviser Dr Yunus presented a photograph to Prime Minister Modi during their bilateral meeting. The photo is about Prime Minister Narendra Modi presenting a gold medal to Dr Yunus at the 102nd Indian Science Congress that took place in Mumbai on January 3, 2015. Prof Yunus also referenced the OHCHR’s Fact-Finding Report, which confirmed serious human rights violations and abuses committed by security forces and armed Awami League activists between July 15 and August 5, 2024.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit on Friday - which is being viewed as potentially the most significant development in Dhaka-Delhi relations since the July Uprising in Bangladesh. This will be the first-ever in-person meeting between the two South Asian leaders since the formation of Bangladesh's interim government last August 8, following the fall of the previous government three days earlier. 6th BIMSTEC Summit Friday; Bangladesh to assume chairmanship for next 2 years Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder confirmed to UNB on Thursday that the meeting will be held around 12pm (Bangkok time, 10am in Bangladesh). Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin recently said the strain in the relationship between Bangladesh and India can be overcome if a meeting is held between Prof Yunus and Narendra Modi. This will be the biggest India-Bangladesh diplomatic development since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, and subsequent flight to Delhi (where she remains), observers say. BIMSTEC: Dr Yunus and Modi join official dinner, meet each other Meanwhile, Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Thursday hosted an official dinner for BIMSTEC leaders where Dr Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Modi met each other, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Azad told UNB. Earlier, Bangladesh approached India through the diplomatic channel to arrange a meeting between Dr Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the Summit. Dr Yunus is also scheduled to hold a number of meetings with BIMSTEC leaders on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit on Friday, including meetings with Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Thai Prime Minister. In his pre-departure statement from India, Modi 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 the interests of our people in mind," Modi said as he began his visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka on Thursday. Society collapses due to wealth, power concentration: Dr Yunus During Eid, Indian Prime Minister Modi greeted Chief Adviser Dr Yunus and wished the people of Bangladesh, seeking stronger friendship between the two countries. "May the bonds of friendship among our countries grow stronger," Modi said in his message.

US Deputy National Security Advisor Alex N. Wong held a telephone conversation Wednesday evening with Chief Adviser's High Representative Dr. Khalilur Rahman. The two officials discussed a broad range of matters of mutual interest and agreed to remain in contact, CA's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder said. Dr Yunus' remarks on Northeast India made with good intentions: High Representative This is the highest level contact so far between the new US administration and the Interim Government of Bangladesh, Azad said. The US government recently confirmed the provision of $73 million in new financial aid for Rohingya refugees. BIMSTEC Sidelines: Yunus, Modi first-ever in-person meeting set for April 4 The US is the largest provider of aid to the Rohingya refugees. It has contributed nearly $2.4 billion since 2017 and has been providing the United Nations with emergency food and nutrition support. The United States also decided to recognise women student protest leaders of Bangladesh from the July uprising with the prestigious Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award. Bangladesh seeks cooperation of BIMSTEC member states for timely finalisation of 6 agreements

The interim government on Wednesday said they want to proceed maintaining good relations with all countries and highlighted that Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’ comment relating to the Northeastern states of India was made with honest intentions, keeping in mind the benefits of regional connectivity. “He made the statement with honest intentions. If different interpretations are provided, we cannot prevent it,” Chief Adviser’s High Representative for the Rohingya issue and other priority Dr Khalilur Rahman said while responding to a question at Foreign Service Academy. Govt working to prevent extremism from flourishing in Bangladesh: Adviser Mahfuj “Seven states of India, eastern part of India, called seven sisters… they are landlocked... landlocked region of India. They have no way to reach out to the ocean,” Dr Yunus said recently in Beijing at a business dialogue. “We are the only guardian of the ocean for all this region. So, this opens up a huge possibility. So, this could be an extension of the Chinese economy. Build things, produce things, market things, bring things to China and bring it out to the whole rest of the world,” Dr Yunus said, inviting Chinese investors to Bangladesh. Prof Yunus also said that Nepal and Bhutan have unlimited hydropower, which is a blessing for the region. “We can bring it to our purpose for setting up factories and so on. From Bangladesh you can go anywhere you want. The ocean is in our backyard. So, this is the opportunity that you want to take,” he said. A number of Indian leaders and scholars have reacted to Prof Yunus’ comment. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, said the remarks by Dr Yunus were "offensive, strongly condemnable and provocative." This remark underscores the persistent vulnerability narrative associated with India’s strategic “Chicken’s Neck” corridor, Sarma said. Asked about Bangladesh’s position on Indian leaders’ reactions, Dr Rahman said the Chief Adviser has not made this comment for the first time. He made similar comments in 2012. He also referred then Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who in 2023 had spoken of a vision of creating an industrial value chain connecting Bangladesh and Northeast India, which was known as BIG-B or the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt. “I had earlier said connectivity can unleash the potentials of the region, especially for those who find it difficult to have access to the sea. “We will not impose connectivity on anyone. We are not in that position. If anybody accepts, well. What can we do if it is not accepted? We have nothing to do,” said the High Representative. Dr Rahman said the Chief Adviser made the statement with honest intention. “If different interpretations are provided, we cannot prevent it. We can only say that we are willing to provide connectivity for equitable benefit of all.” Khaleda Zia undergoes 'complete health check-up in London Bangladesh eyes a meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on April 4. The interim government also does think paying a visit to a particular country (China) will cause damage to a relationship with another country (India). BIMSTEC Sidelines: Yunus, Modi first-ever in-person meeting set for April 4 "It's not a zero-sum game," High Representative to the Chief Adviser Khalilur Rahman told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy on Wednesday. Dr Yunus and PM Modi are scheduled to be in Bangkok on Thursday on a two-day visit.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed her country's desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen the friendship with Bangladesh. Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico M Mushfiqul Fazal (Ansarey) presented his letter of credence to the President of Mexico in a formal ceremony at the National Palace in Mexico City on Wednesday. During the ceremony, the Ambassador conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus to President Sheinbaum. He also extended a cordial invitation for the Mexican President to visit Bangladesh. Ambassador Mushfiqul Fazal reaffirmed his strong commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Mexico during his tenure. He highlighted the significance of the upcoming 50 anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2025, emphasising that this milestone presents a valuable opportunity to deepen cooperation in trade, culture and people-to-people exchanges. Anyone can criticise the interim govt now, and it's a success: Foreign Adviser The Ambassador also requested President Sheinbaum to accelerate the process of opening a Mexican Embassy in Dhaka, underscoring its importance in fostering closer diplomatic and economic ties. President Sheinbaum warmly welcomed the Ambassador and assured him of the Mexican government's support in carrying out his diplomatic duties. The ceremony concluded with a tour of the historic National Palace, the Presidential office and official residence of the President of Mexico.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres concluded his Ramadan solidarity visit on Sunday morning, expressing his hope that Bangladesh would become one of the most perfect democracies in the world through reforms. Guterres left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 9:55am on Sunday. UN chief voices “concern” over disinformation targeted against Bangladesh: Foreign Adviser Environment, Forests and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and Chief Adviser's High Representative for Rohingya issue Khalilur Rahman saw him off at the airport. Before his departure, the UN Secretary General spoke to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus over the phone and exchanged farewell greetings, CA's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Before leaving Dhaka, Guterres expressed his total solidarity with the efforts that Bangladesh is taking in order to introduce reforms that will make Bangladesh "one of the most perfect democracies" in the world. During his visit, the secretary-general met with top officials, including Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus; Foreign Adviser Md Towhid Hossain, and High Representative Khalilur Rahman. He visited the Rohingya camps to share Ramadan Solidarity Iftar with about 10 million Rohingya when he was accompanied by the Chief Adviser. He also joined a roundtable discussion on reforms, met with Bangladeshi youth representatives and members of the civil society. Guterres, who arrived in Dhaka on March 13, said Bangladesh can count on full support of the UN in its way to provide its citizens a set of institutions which will be able to guide the country towards "sustainable and inclusive" development. During iftar and early dinner hosted by Chief Adviser Dr Yunus on Saturday, Guterres expressed his deep admiration to him and his team for the work they are conducting. He reiterated that Bangladesh can count on the UN's full solidarity in mobilis.ing all their capacities to support the reforms in Bangladesh. Guterres highlighted Bangladesh’s support to the United Nations and its mission, particularly in peacekeeping. Bangladesh is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, with thousands of soldiers serving in some of the world’s most dangerous environments. UN chief acknowledges people’s hopes for democracy, justice, prosperity “I want to pay tribute to the sacrifices and dedication of Bangladeshi peacekeepers,” he said. Regarding Bangladesh's efforts to support over 1 million Rohingya refugees, Guterres said Bangladesh's generosity is "absolutely outstanding". "You have been a remarkable example....that should be followed," said the UN chief.