United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the historic and landslide victory of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), noting that the Bangladesh government looks forward to working closely with her administration to strengthen Dhaka-Tokyo partnership further. “The government of Bangladesh looks forward to working closely with your administration to further strengthen our partnership, deepen economic and technological cooperation, and advance our shared priorities for mutual benefit,” he said in a message to Takaichi. Takaichi’s governing party secured a two-thirds supermajority in parliamentary elections. Feb-12 polls must be fair, with no room for bias: Prof Yunus The landslide victory was due, in large part, to the extraordinary popularity of Japan’s first female prime minister, and allowed her to pursue a significant conservative shift in Japan’s security, immigration and other policies. “On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh, and on my own behalf, I extend my warmest congratulations on the historic and landslide victory of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) under your leadership in the election to the House of Representatives held on 8 February 2026,” Prof Yunus said. He said this decisive mandate reflects the strong confidence and trust placed in her leadership and vision by the people of Japan. “I am confident that, under your continued stewardship, Japan will further advance stability, prosperity, and constructive engagement both regionally and globally,” Prof Yunus said. He said Bangladesh attaches highest importance to its long-standing and trusted partnership with Japan. “We remain deeply appreciative of Japan's consistent support for Bangladesh's development, including our cooperation in quality infrastructure and connectivity, which has made a lasting contribution to our people and economy,” said the Chief Adviser. Prof Yunus conveyed her best wishes for her good health and success, and for the continued peace, progress, and well-being of the people of Japan. Spain’s deadly train crash saddens Prof Yunus

Bangladesh has formally established diplomatic relations with Caribbean nation Grenada through the signing of a joint declaration at the Bangladesh High Commission in London. The joint declaration was signed on Thursday afternoon by Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Abida Islam and Grenada’s High Commissioner to the UK Rachér Croney, marking the official start of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Both Bangladesh and Grenada became members of the United Nations on September 17, 1974. Although various contacts and exchanges took place over the years, no formal diplomatic relations had been established until now. Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Abida Islam described the development as a significant and memorable moment in the history of Bangladesh’s foreign relations. She said the historic step, approved by the Advisory Council led by Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, signals the beginning of a new chapter in South-South cooperation. “This is not merely a diplomatic formality; it is a bridge between South Asia and the Caribbean,” Adiba said, adding that the relationship is founded on mutual respect and a shared vision for a fair and just global order. As fellow members of the Commonwealth, both countries deeply value sovereignty and the resilience required for nation-building, she noted, adding that Bangladesh and Grenada share a unique historical bond. “We will strengthen our voices together on the international stage,” she said. Bangladesh calls for new, accessible climate finance to address damages The High Commissioner highlighted the potential for building a strong alliance by combining Bangladesh’s global leadership in disaster resilience with Grenada’s influential role among Small Island Developing States (SIDS). She also said both sides would work jointly to expand trade and industrial cooperation by leveraging Bangladesh’s global capabilities in pharmaceuticals and textiles and Grenada’s strategic position in the Caribbean region. Abida added that the partnership would further deepen mutual engagement, with both countries remaining steadfast advocates for equitable development and climate justice.

Bangladesh and Japan have signed an agreement over ‘transfer of defence equipment and technology’ which is expected to ensure ‘appropriate control’ over the defence equipment and technology transferred between the two countries. Lieutenant General SM Kamrul Hassan, Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division, Chief Adviser’s Office of Bangladesh and Saida Shinichi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Bangladesh, signed the deal on behalf of their respective sides on Tuesday.  The agreement entered into force on February 3, officials said. The strategic partnership and long-standing friendship between the two countries have been elevated to new heights through this agreement, the ISPR said in a media release. Bangladesh approves proposal to sign EPA with Japan It mentioned that the strategic partnership between Bangladesh and Japan in South Asia will be further deepened, making an important contribution to regional stability and global security. The ISPR said the agreement is expected to further accelerate Bangladesh’s defense modernisation process. The deal establishes a legal framework for the governments of Japan and Bangladesh regarding the handling of defence equipment and technology to be transferred between the two governments in order to implement projects to be jointly determined, including those contributing to international peace and security, said the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Specifically, it stipulates procedures to determine and confirm each specific transfer as well as basic rules on the proper use of the transferred defence equipment and technology. The agreement, Japan said, will ensure appropriate control over the defence equipment and technology transferred between Japan and Bangladesh, especially regarding any subsequent transfer to a third party or any extra-purpose use.  It is expected that this agreement will contribute to closer cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan for defence equipment and technology, and maintaining and improving the production and technological bases for Japan’s defence industry, thereby contributing to the security of Japan, said the Japanese side. Quoting sources at the Armed Forces Division, the ISPR said the signing of the agreement was made possible through intensive and continuous efforts by both sides since 2023. It said the defense agreement reflects the deep mutual trust, shared vision and cooperation between the two countries, achieved through the visionary and effective diplomacy of the interim government of Bangladesh. The agreement has been executed in full compliance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and will create an institutional framework for the acquisition of advanced technology and defense equipment, as well as for joint research and development, to help establish international peace and security and protect the independence and sovereignty of Bangladesh. Japan, South Korea leaders drum to K-pop after summit The ISPR said the signing of this historic agreement will increase the exchange of military experts between the two countries, which is expected to play an important role in strengthening Bangladesh’s defense capabilities and implementing future action plans. According to the ISPR, the agreement is also expected to play a significant role in enhancing strategic relations and military cooperation between the two countries.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller has emphasised the need for a level playing field for EU operators and consistent policy stability in the coming period to enhance bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the European Union. He also called for the completion of reforms launched by the interim government. In a recent keynote address titled ‘The EU Means Business in Bangladesh’, Ambassador Miller highlighted the EU's role as Bangladesh’s steadfast and reliable partner.  He underscored the strength of the EU's commercial relationship with the country and recalled its support for democratic renewal. The European Union Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham Bangladesh), the official Chamber of the European Union in Bangladesh and part of the European Business Organisation (EBO) Worldwide Network, hosted the EuroCham Business Evening 2026 at the United Convention Centre, Dhaka. India seeks forward-looking cooperation with Bangladesh The event brought together EuroCham members, the EU Delegation, Member State ambassadors and trade representatives, businesses, partners, and Government of Bangladesh officials to advance dialogue and cooperation for European businesses.

Expressing optimism over the future of the two countries, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen on Wednesday said his country does not take any side in Bangladesh elections and it is the 'sovereign decision' of the people of Bangladesh whom they actually want. “The key point I want to make is - the US doesn't take sides in Bangladesh’s elections," he said during his first interaction with a small group of journalists at the EMK Centre in Dhaka. Spokesperson of the US Embassy Dhaka Poornima Rai was also present. The Ambassador said he is optimistic about the future of the two countries and looks forward to Bangladesh’s historic elections next month. He said who is elected and who is selected to become the part of the newly elected government is a sovereign decision of Bangladesh’s people and no other country had a say. "We talk to everybody as you know...we have a long history of talking to everybody, " the Ambassador said. He said they are committed to working with whoever wins in the elections. "I am excited about the future of Bangladesh. We have seen massive changes here since August 2024. I think we will continue to see changes," said the US envoy, noting that the two countries can work together on economic, trade and security issues. Ambassador Christensen said it is a very exciting time to be back here ahead of the country’s most consequential election in nearly two decades. Very Hopeful of Great Relationship Ambassador Christensen said they had a very positive working relationship with the interim government and are very hopeful that they will have a great relationship with the next government, to be chosen by the people of Bangladesh. Asked about his expectation from the next elected government, he hoped that they will do their 'very best' for the people. During the interaction with the media, he spoke on the broader bilateral relationship, indicating that cooperation in the areas of trade, economy and security would be the priorities of the relationship. The Ambassador believes there are many opportunities for cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States. Talking about economic issues, the Ambassador said the US business is not just trade and investment, it brings international best practices. Regarding the Myanmar-Rohingya crisis, Christensen commended Bangladesh for hosting over a million refugees. He said the US’ ongoing support. In December, the US and UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs signed a $2 billion funding framework, which includes Bangladesh, to ensure aid reaches vulnerable communities effectively. Honoured to Return Christensen said he was honoured to return to Bangladesh, a country he knows well and holds in the highest regard. For over two decades, he said, he has had the privilege of working closely on US policy toward Bangladesh and the broader region. As US Ambassador, he said, his primary responsibility is to advance the interests of the American people and the agenda of President Donald Trump, making America safer, stronger and more prosperous. “You might have heard this policy referred to as the America First foreign policy. I believe that elected governments should always put their people first,” the Ambassador said, adding that America First does not mean America alone. After his recent meeting with BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman to hear his perspective on upcoming elections, he said the United States looks forward to working with all Bangladeshi political parties to advance shared peace and prosperity. The US Ambassador also met with Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury to discuss his plans for the judiciary and potential areas for cooperation to strengthen the security of both the countries. On January 15, Ambassador Christensen presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban and said he looks forward to strengthening the Bangladesh-US relationship. "Today I had the honor of presenting my Ambassadorial credentials to President Shahabuddin. The United States is proud to call Bangladesh a friend," he said in a brief statement after the ceremony. In over 50 years of partnership, the US Ambassador said they have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth benefiting both the two countries, and the sovereignty of their great nations. "I look forward to continuing this work and further strengthening the U.S.-Bangladesh relationship," he said. “It is an honor for me to serve the United States as the 19th Ambassador to Bangladesh,” said Ambassador Christensen who along with his wife Deanne Dao arrived in Dhaka on January 12. In a brief statement shared by the US Embassy in Dhaka soon after his arrival, he said they both are thrilled to return to a country that holds many fond memories for them. The newly appointed Ambassador laid emphasis on enhancing the relations between Bangladesh and the United States. The US Embassy Dhaka welcomed Brent Christensen as the newly sworn-in Ambassador to Bangladesh. “I am thrilled to return to Bangladesh, a country I know so well," said Ambassador Christensen. The US Ambassador said he is excited to lead a great team at Embassy Dhaka, Americans and locally employed staff alike, to "enhance US-Bangladesh relations, advance President Trump's agenda, and work hard every day to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.” Excellent First Week He had 'excellent first week' at U.S. Embassy Dhaka. "I’m proud to join the hard-working U.S. Embassy team and look forward to advancing President Trump’s priorities and further strengthening U.S.-Bangladesh relations." Ambassador Christensen was confirmed by the Senate as Ambassador on December 18, 2025. He served most recently as the Senior Official performing the duties of Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security from January-October 2025. In this role, he oversaw the Department of State’s global efforts on security cooperation, security assistance, counterterrorism,7 counternarcotics and nonproliferation. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ambassador Christensen previously served as the Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of United States Strategic Command and as Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Ambassador Christensen has held additional assignments overseas in the US missions to the Philippines, El Salvador and Vietnam. His other domestic roles include serving as Deputy Director, Office of Regional Security and Arms Transfers, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, as Special Assistant to the Special Representative for North Korea Policy, as a fellow on the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, and as Bangladesh Country Officer in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Ambassador Christensen also served as one of two career Foreign Service members of the Foreign Service Impasses Disputes Panel, part of the U.S. Federal Labor Relations Authority. A distinguished graduate of the National War College, Ambassador Christensen earned a Master of Science in National Security Strategy. Bhutan among eligible countries as Bangladesh continues visa-on-arrival facility He likewise holds a Master of Science in Statistics from Texas A&M University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Managerial Studies from Rice University. He speaks Spanish, German and Vietnamese, and has studied French, Japanese, and Portuguese. Before joining the Foreign Service in 2002, he worked as a management consultant in Houston and New York City.  

Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen on Thursday presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban and said he looks forward to strengthening the Bangladesh-US relationship.  “Today I had the honor of presenting my Ambassadorial credentials to President Shahabuddin. The United States is proud to call Bangladesh a friend," he said in a brief statement after the ceremony. In over 50 years of partnership, the US Ambassador said they have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth benefiting both the two countries, and the sovereignty of their great nations. "I look forward to continuing this work and further strengthening the U.S.-Bangladesh relationship," he said. Read more: UAE rulers grant royal pardons to 440 Bangladeshi prisoners “It is an honor for me to serve the United States as the 19th Ambassador to Bangladesh,” said Ambassador Christensen who along with his wife Deanne Dao arrived in Dhaka on Monday. In a brief statement shared by the US Embassy in Dhaka soon after his arrival, he said they both are thrilled to return to a country that holds many fond memories for them.

Ambassador of Bangladesh to Guatemala, resident in Mexico, Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey has presented his credentials to Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala Mo nica Bolan os Pe rez and called for stronger bilateral ties with Guatemala. During their meeting on Tuesday, both sides underscored the importance of deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation. Vice Minister Bolan os Pe rez commended Bangladesh’s notable contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations.  Ambassador Mushfique proposed facilitating a visit by a Guatemalan business delegation to Bangladesh to explore new opportunities for collaboration, said the Embassy on Wednesday.  Bangladesh condemns Israeli military aggression against Qatar He also highlighted Bangladesh’s competitive export sectors, particularly ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, leather, and jute goods. On the sidelines, Ambassador Mushfique met with Director General Lynsay Herna ndez, where he reaffirmed Bangladesh’s full commitment to advancing bilateral ties.  

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, now in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday expressed concerns over the arrests of Bangladeshi nationals on charges of terrorism. He said the government of Bangladesh will work with Malaysia to investigate allegations of militancy against Bangladeshi nationals who were arrested recently by the Malaysian Police. The issues were discussed during a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Foreign Minister Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan held in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) ministerial meeting.  Adviser Hossain reiterated the firm stand of the government against terrorism and sought Malaysia's cooperation in its own investigation into the allegations through exchange of information and findings.  The Malaysian Foreign Minister assured Dhaka of facilitating access and cooperation to Bangladesh authorities. Photographs taken by two Mt. Everest summiteers on display in Dhaka Earlier, the Foreign Advisor met UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy where the two held discussions on diverse bilateral, regional and multilateral issues.  Both sides discussed, among others, the ongoing reforms in Bangladesh, Rohingya crisis, post-LDC graduation support, according to the Bangladesh Mission in Kuala Lumpur.  The Foreign Adviser also called on Winston Peters, the Foreign Minister of New Zealand, Hon Vijitha Herath, the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, and Park Yoonjoo, the Vice Minister and Head of Delegation of the Republic of Korea where a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues came for discussions.  Bangladesh became a member of ARF in 2006, a forum established in early nineties to promote confidence and trust among its 27 members that include countries in the broader Asia-Pacific.  At present, Bangladesh is co-chairing two of the ARF priority areas, “Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime” and “Disaster Relief.”  The next session of the ARF ministerial meeting is scheduled to take place in Manila in 2026. In the afternoon, the Foreign Adviser delivered the national statement at the Ministerial Meeting of ASEAN Regional Forum where he called for greater attention to the Rohingya crisis, in consideration of its national and regional security implications.  China, Canada foresee ‘renewed collaboration’ in trade, investment with Bangladesh The Foriegn Adviser also urged the ASEAN members to positively consider Bangladesh’s bid to become Sectoral Dialogue Partner.  The Foreign Adviser was accompanied by Md Shameem Ahsan, the High Commissioner of Bangaldesh to Malaysia, Md Forhadul Islam, Director General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other senior officials of the Bangladesh government.    

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

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Saturday said Bangladesh will cooperate with Malaysia in the ‘terror investigation’ as the Malaysian authorities announced that they had arrested 36 Bangladeshis in the recent security operations for their alleged involvement in a ‘radical militant’ movement. “Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur immediately engaged with the relevant Malaysian authorities and formally requested the identities of the individuals and information regarding the allegations brought against them,” the Ministry said. Bangladesh reiterated its firm position against all forms of terrorism, violent extremism and militancy, and it remains ready to extend full cooperation to the Malaysian authorities in this regard Of the arrested or detained people, formal charges have been filed against five in Malaysian courts, the MoFA said. The rest are in the process of either further investigation or deportation, Bangladesh said, updating on the recent incidents. The government of Bangladesh is ‘closely monitoring’ the developments and the Bangladesh High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is in close communication with the relevant Malaysian authorities. The Bangladesh High Commission will extend necessary support to the expatriate Bangladeshis wherever needed, the Ministry added. Nepal highlights positive role of media in deepening friendship with Bangladesh The Bangladeshi Radical Militant Group (GMRB), recently dismantled by the Malaysian police, is believed to have been raising funds and recruiting members for the Islamic State (IS) in Syria and Bangladesh, said the Malaysian government on Friday. Of the 36 suspects aged between 25 and 35, five have been charged under Section 6A of the Penal Code, while 16 are still held under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA) for further investigation and prosecution. Bangladesh is waiting for details from the Malaysian side as it has already sought detailed information from Malaysian authorities regarding the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals in Malaysia. “We have sought detailed information about the 36 Bangladeshis arrested in Malaysia, and we are now awaiting their response,” Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday. Bangladesh will verify the allegations against the arrested people to check whether they were involved in militancy. “If they are found to be involved, we will ensure their punishment,” Adviser Hossain said, adding that the situation remains somewhat fluid. Asked whether the incident could negatively impact the issuance of Malaysian visas to Bangladeshi nationals in the future, the adviser said any negative incident can affect visa issuance and they cannot say it will not have an impact. He, however, said if they take proper steps, the impact can be minimised. Malaysian Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the group collected funds by charging an annual membership fee of RM500 per person as well as other voluntary contributions based on members’ financial means. Initial investigations revealed the group had between 100 and 150 members, all Bangladeshi nationals working in labour sectors such as in factories, construction sites and petrol stations across Malaysia, according to Bernama. “The funds collected were then transferred abroad using e-wallet applications and international money transfer services,” he told a press conference here on Friday. The group also used social media platforms and messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram to recruit new members. Mohd Khalid said police are still investigating the amount of funds channelled by the group to IS networks in Syria and Bangladesh. Bangladesh and Türkiye affirm mutual cooperation for football development He said the group used social media and messaging apps to spread IS propaganda, conduct baiah (oath of allegiance), and organise secret activities such as religious classes and member meetings. “Those who pledged allegiance online were made cell leaders to expand the group’s influence. New members were recruited in stages, starting from screening to forming elite groups,” he said. He added that investigations so far indicate no Malaysians were involved in the group, which is believed to have been active in the country for about a year. Although the group was not planning attacks in Malaysia, it used the country as a base to raise funds and recruit members. Investigations are ongoing with support from Bangladeshi authorities and Interpol. Mohd Khalid said police initially detected the group’s activities through social media accounts operated by Bangladeshi nationals using Malaysian IP addresses to spread IS ideology. The first phase of the operation, conducted on April 28, led to the arrest of six individuals in Selangor and revealed the structure of GMRB, which was based in Johor. The second phase, carried out on May 7, resulted in 14 more arrests in Johor, including the group’s leader. The third and final phase, conducted from June 19 to 21, saw the arrest of another 16 people, effectively dismantling GMRB’s main network operating in Malaysia. Mohd Khalid said suspects found to have minimal involvement in the group’s activities will be deported to their home countries.