United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh and the United Kingdom on Thursday discussed the possibility of increasing bilateral trade and expanding British investment in Bangladesh, which could create new employment opportunities in the country. The issues came for discussion when British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office, according to press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office. During the meeting, the British envoy expressed hope that relations between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom will be further strengthened under the current government. A proposal was made at the meeting for British cooperation in technical educational institutions and training programmes. Sarah Cooke further expressed interest in British investment in the aviation sector after the launch of the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir were present at the meeting.

Bangladesh and China on Thursday stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in trade and commerce, investment, technical education and people-to-people exchanges. The two sides discussed the issues when Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at his Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office, according to press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office. At the beginning of the meeting, the Chinese envoy congratulated Bangladesh on the election of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged the Special Security Force (SSF) to ensure that security arrangements do not isolate him from ordinary citizens, saying public trust and love remain his greatest source of strength. “As the head of government, my greatest reliance is on the trust and love of the people. Therefore, I urge you, as a sophisticated force, to ensure that the security cordon does not push the head of government away from the people,” he said, while speaking at a programme marking the 40th anniversary of the SSF at Shapla Hall of the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon. The Prime Minister said the security environment has changed significantly since the force was established four decades ago, with socio-economic, political and geopolitical developments, along with rapid technological advancement, creating multidimensional security challenges. He stressed the need for SSF personnel to remain prepared through modern and up-to-date training, saying there is no room for a specialised force to lag behind in courage, skills, strategy or technology. Referring to the BNP government's assumption of office following the February 12 general election, Tarique Rahman said the SSF has been providing comprehensive security for the head of government since the new administration took office on February 17. He noted that he reduced the size of his motorcade to lessen public inconvenience and ensure smoother traffic movement, which has required the SSF to place greater emphasis on efficiency and security strategies rather than expanding manpower. “As the head of a democratic government, I frequently attend public rallies and state programmes both in Dhaka and remote areas of the country. Ensuring security amid large public gatherings is a difficult task,” the Prime Minister said. He said the SSF must maintain a delicate balance between protecting the head of government and ensuring the comfort and convenience of citizens, adding that the force's professionalism is reflected in how effectively it manages such situations. Tarique Rahman also inaugurated a newly built state-of-the-art firing range for the SSF and observed a demonstration exercise. He expressed hope that the facility will contribute to enhancing the force's professional capabilities and help members further improve their operational skills. Highlighting institutional reforms, he said the SSF's "Red Book" has been revised and modernised for the first time since 2002 to meet contemporary requirements. The updated manual not only provides operational guidelines but also strengthens the legal framework governing the force's activities. The Prime Minister said SSF members must strictly adhere to the principles, including maintaining the “chain of command”, while also being capable of making prompt decisions based on changing circumstances. He underscored the importance of professionalism, integrity, loyalty, discipline and adherence to the chain of command. Tarique Rahman also stressed that ensuring the security of the head of state, head of government and other state-designated important persons is closely linked to national security, requiring close coordination among security forces, intelligence agencies and relevant government institutions. He assured the force that the government will continue taking all necessary measures to further strengthen its professional capabilities in line with evolving global standards. The Prime Minister also urged SSF members to treat citizens with respect while performing their duties. “While giving the highest priority to the security of important personalities, you must ensure that ordinary people are not subjected to any form of misconduct,” he said. Expressing confidence in the force, Tarique Rahman called on its members to remain committed to patriotism, democratic values and the highest standards of professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities. He thanked the SSF for carrying out its duties with utmost sincerity and professionalism to ensure the security of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia while she was in office and most recently while she was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital during the final days of her life. “Following Begum Khaleda Zia’s passing, the SSF also played a significant role as the principal coordinating body in organising one of the largest funeral prayers (Janaza) in the history of not only Bangladesh but also the world. On behalf of myself and my family, I once again express my heartfelt thanks to the SSF,” the Prime Minister said. He also extended his greetings to all those who have been associated with the SSF, as well as those who are currently serving with dedication, on the occasion of the founding anniversary. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Prime Minister Defence Adviser AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, Quartermaster General (QMG) of Bangladesh Army Lieutenant General Md Shaheenul Haque, Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Bangladesh Army Lieutenant General Md Mainur Rahman, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani and Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, among others, were present.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday called for an end to what he described as a “mentality of revenge”, urging all to focus on the interest of the country and its people rather than retaliation. Speaking at a view-exchange meeting with journalists covering the BNP beat at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital, he said at present, there is no environment in Bangladesh for muzzling the media, and sought cooperation from journalists in addressing social challenges. “Let us try to change our mindset a little. If something happened to me, taking revenge will not bring it back or make things as they were before. We should move away from that mindset and think about what we can do for the country, for society, and for people,” the Prime Minister said. “Whether we succeed or not is a different matter… but at least we can try. Success is a different issue. With this mindset, why shouldn’t we move forward?” he said. Tarique Rahman also spoke emotionally about his past experiences, saying he endured both physical and mental hardship during imprisonment. “I came from prison. I was physically and mentally tortured. I can say many things about who is responsible for what, but that is not the point now,” he said.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday reviewed the progress of measures taken to ease traffic congestion in the capital and modernise the city’s traffic management system. The review meeting was held at the Public Administration Room of the Cabinet Division at the Secretariat in the morning, said Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon. He said the Prime Minister sought updates on the overall progress of traffic management initiatives, including the installation of AI-powered traffic cameras across the capital. “The Prime Minister wanted to know how many AI cameras have already been installed and when the remaining ones will be set up,” Rumon said. The meeting also discussed the removal of old and unfit vehicles from Dhaka’s roads and the Prime Minister provided a number of directives in this regard. Rumon said Tarique Rahman instructed the authorities concerned to expedite the installation of AI cameras as part of efforts to modernise the capital’s traffic management system. This was the Prime Minister’s third meeting on traffic congestion and traffic management in Dhaka. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam, State Minister Habibur Rashid Habib, Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam, Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Shafiqul Islam Khan, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani, Principal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, Home Secretary Monjur Morshed Chowdhury and senior officials from the relevant ministries attended the meeting.    

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday praised a range of eco-friendly products developed by young innovator Sajjadul Islam of Moulvibazar and assured necessary support for further research and development. Sajjadul Islam, a student from Sreemangal Government College, met the Prime Minister at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday. His father, Nazrul Islam, was also present during the meeting, said Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon. Sajjadul has developed environment-friendly alternatives to plastic, carbon and silicon-based products. His innovations include tiles and corrugated sheets made from banana tree fibres, as well as biodegradable polythene produced from starch extracted from rotten and unused vegetables. During the meeting, Sajjadul briefed the Prime Minister on his inventions and showed the samples, including biodegradable polythene, corrugated sheets, tiles and boards. The Prime Minister highly praised the environment-friendly innovations and their potential contribution to sustainable development. He assured Sajjadul of government support for his innovative work and encouraged him to continue his research and development activities. Tarique Rahman also stressed the importance of further research to ensure quality improvement and practical application of such products. He assigned relevant officials, including State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam, Prime Minister’s Adviser on IT and Posts and Telecommunications Rehan Asif Asad, and SDG Affairs Chief Coordinator Prof SM Abdul Awal, to provide necessary support for the young inventor.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday formally inaugurated a nationwide programme to plant 25 crore trees over the next five years, aiming to strengthen environmental protection and address the impacts of climate change. The Prime Minister inaugurated the programme by planting a sapling of Garjan tree at Malumghat Reserved Forest in Dulahazara under Pmkhali Union of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Upazila at around 2:55pm. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and other ministers and lawmakers also planted saplings of 11 different species during the event. Upon reaching the tree plantation venue, the Prime Minister greeted hundreds of local people assembled there by waving at them. Officials said a total of 1,180 saplings of indigenous tree species will be planted in the forest in the first phase of the programme. The ruling BNP had pledged in its election manifesto to plant 25 crore trees across the country within five years after coming to power. Saturday’s inauguration marks the formal start of implementation of that commitment. After forming the government following a landslide victory in the 13th parliamentary election, the BNP-led government began rolling out pilot initiatives in different parts of the country including the introduction of Family Card in Korail slum in Dhaka, Farmers’ Card in Tangail, and  ‘Nutan Kuri Sports’ programme in Sylhet. The Prime Minister also introduced honorarium schemes for imams, muezzins and other religious leaders of different faiths, along with stipends and sports card for athletes as part of various social protection measures. Officials said the massive afforestation programme will be implemented over five years under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, with the first phase targeting the plantation of 1.5 crore saplings across 149 upazilas in 49 districts. The programme was organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo presided over the event. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee, State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam, State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, State Minister for Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs and Land Mir Md Helal Uddin, State Minister for Jute and Textiles Shariful Alam, and Environment Secretary Raihan Kawser were among others present. Later, a munajat was offered praying for the success of the tree plantation programme.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday visited Dulahazara Safari Park in Cox’s Bazar during his daylong tour of the district. The Prime Minister arrived at the safari park at around 2 pm after inaugurating the re-excavation of the historic Patali Canal in Pmkhali Union. His wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, accompanied him during the visit. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo and State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam welcomed the Prime Minister at Dulahazara Safari Park. The Prime Minister planted a sapling of a cannonball tree (Nagalingam) in front of the main gate of the safari park. Prime Minister Tarique and Dr Zubaid signed the visitors’ book of the park. The Prime Minister and his wife toured various sections of the park with keen interest, observing its facilities, wildlife habitats and conservation activities. Earlier in the day, Tarique Rahman drove himself from Cox’s Bazar Airport to Patali Canal re-excavation programme venue. The Prime Minister had Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed seated beside him in the vehicle, while PM’s wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and Home Minister’s wife Hasina Ahmed were also in the car. After completing the canal re-excavation programme, the Prime Minister again took the wheel and drove to Dulahazara Safari Park.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday alleged that the Opposition is opposing the proposed national budget for FY2026-27 not to protect public interests but to create instability in the country and mislead people. “I saw in the newspapers, Alhamdulillah that so far no commodity prices have increased following the budget unlike in the past,” he said while addressing a brief gathering after inaugurating the re-excavation work of the historic Patali Canal in Pmkhali Union under Cox’s Bazar Sadar Upazila. Tarique said taxes on around 60 essential products including rice, lentils, edible oil and salt have been withdrawn in the budget announced two days ago so that prices of daily necessities do not rise. “The objective is simple – to ensure that people can live well,” he said. Criticising the Opposition’s rejection of the budget, Tarique questioned its position on measures intended to ease the burden on consumers. “The Opposition says it does not accept this budget and calls it anti-people. I want to ask you a question. They do not accept a budget that reduces taxes. They do not like a budget that increases the prices of alcohol and cigarettes. Then have you understood what their real intention is?” the Prime Minister said. “Their objective is not to stand beside the people of the country. Their only goal is to create instability and unrest in the country and mislead people,” he added. Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the proposed budget for FY2026-27 in Parliament on Thursday. Highlighting the budget’s emphasis on production and employment, Tarique said Bangladesh must strengthen industry and commerce alongside agriculture. “Bangladesh is an agriculture-based country. But at the same time we must build industries and expand trade. If industries and businesses grow, employment opportunities will be created for our young people. They will be able to find jobs and engage in business activities,” he said. The Prime Minister said the government has increased taxes on imported products that compete with locally manufactured goods in order to protect domestic industries. “We have raised taxes on imported products that are also produced locally so that our domestic industries and manufacturers can receive support. We have included such measures in this budget. Yet even this is not acceptable to the Opposition,” he said.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday inaugurated the re-excavation of historic Patali Canal in Pmkhali Union of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Upazila, a canal closely associated with the memory of former President Ziaur Rahman. Soon after arriving in Cox’s Bazar from Dhaka, the Prime Minister went to Pmkhali and formally launched the re-excavation programme at around 10:50am. Forty-eight years ago, in November 1979, then President Ziaur Rahman personally inaugurated the excavation of the canal by cutting earth with a spade. During the visit, he also planted a date palm tree on the canal bank, which still stands as a reminder of that historic initiative. Despite heavy rain, Tarique Rahman proceeded to the site and formally inaugurated the re-excavation work by cutting earth with a spade. He also planted an almond sapling on the canal bank. Home Minister and Cox’s Bazar-1 lawmaker Salahuddin Ahmed, Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Choudhury Anee, State Minister Farhad Hossain Azad, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for  LGRD Mir Sahe Alam, State Minister for Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs and Land Mir Md Helal Uddin, State Minister for Textiles and Jute Shariful Alam, Cox’s Bazar-3 MP Lutfur Rahman Kajal, Chattogram-10 MP Sayeed Al Noman and Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Md Abdul Mannan were among others present. Thousands of people from Patali village and surrounding areas gathered along the canal bank from the morning braving heavy rain to witness the programme and greet the Prime Minister. Patali Canal is regarded as a landmark irrigation project launched during Ziaur Rahman’s rule. According to local officials, the initiative drew international attention at the time. Former World Bank President Robert McNamara, Nepal’s King Birendra, Bhutan’s King Jigme Singye Wangchuck and former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike visited Bangladesh to observe the country's rural development and agricultural initiatives. Officials said irrigation from the canal helped bring nearly 12,000 hectares of previously uncultivated land under farming, contributing to a significant boost in agricultural production and the local economy. However, after remaining operational for several years, the canal gradually became clogged with silt due to inadequate maintenance, while parts of it were encroached upon, disrupting irrigation facilities for local farmers. The eight-kilometre canal is expected to benefit around 40,000 people once re-excavation is completed, according to local engineers of the Water Resources Ministry. Local farmer Khorshed Alam said he was delighted to see Tarique Rahman inaugurate the restoration of a canal originally excavated by his father. “Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman excavated this canal, and today his son has come to restore it. We are happy to see Tarique Rahman in person,” he said. “The canal has become filled up over the years. Once it is re-excavated, we farmers will benefit greatly and will no longer have to worry about irrigation water for our crops,” Alam added. Earlier, the Prime Minister and his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman arrived in Cox’s Bazar around 9:50am by air. After inaugurating the re-excavation work, Tarique Rahman went onto a temporary stage beside the canal and waved to the crowd, exchanging greetings with local residents.