The Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Thursday presented its inaugural "DCAB Media Award" to its three members in recognition of their contributions to diplomatic reporting and to inspire further professional development. Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin handed over the awards at a ceremony held at Foreign Service Academy in the capital. Turkish ambassador Ramis Sen pays courtesy visit to Trade Adviser Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Rafiqul Alam, DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib and its General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu also spoke on the occasion. Daily Manabzamin Special Correspondent Mizanur Rahman, Maasranga Tv Senior Reporter Md Mashrequl Islam (Mashreq Rahat) and Dhaka Post Diplomatic Correspondent Md Nazrul Islam received the award in the print, television and online categories respectively. The Foreign Secretary appreciated the DCAB initiative and hoped that such initiative would continue in the future. Members of the jury were Reaz Ahmed, Executive Editor, Dhaka Tribune, Dr Md Saiful Alam Chowdhury, Associate Professor, Department of Mass Communication & Journalism of Dhaka University and journalist Miraj Ahmed Chowdhury, Managing Director, Digitally Right. ‘Have so many things to offer each other’: Pranay Verma  They considered the following issues while marking the reports - context, novelty and importance of the topic; use of information and sources; language and presentation style; reasoning and structure of the writing and original research conducted by the reporters.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today (November 09, 2023) reiterated his country's non-interference approach towards other countries' internal affairs, noting that the future of Bangladesh will be determined by the people of Bangladesh. He laid emphasis on maintaining political and social stability through joint efforts. “Our policy is very clear. We don’t intervene. It is our hope that there will be stability after the next election and that our cooperation will continue,” the Chinese ambassador said. He hoped that the election will be held based on “constitution and laws.” He was addressing an event titled “BRI@10: Ushering in Next Golden Decade” at a Dhaka hotel, organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB). A certain country claims to be friend of Bangladesh, but imposes visa curbs: Chinese Ambassador CEAB President Ke Changliang spoke as the special guest at the event. DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and General Secretary Emrul Kayesh also spoke on the occasion. “We want stability. We hope, Chinese people and property will be protected. So far, we feel safe. Thanks for the efforts that have been taken,” said the ambassador. “This is the pre-election year in Bangladesh. Many friends from the media have come to ask me what is China’s observations on the current political situation in Bangladesh. I want to underscore that the upcoming election is an internal affair of Bangladesh,” said Ambassador Yao. As a matter of foreign policy, he said, China adheres to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs of other countries, and opposes any force interfering in internal affairs of other countries. “The future of Bangladesh shall be determined by people of Bangladesh. China is full of confidence about the better future of Bangladesh as well as China-Bangladesh relations,” he said. Those who claim situation in Myanmar 'not conducive' for repatriation never visited Rakhine : Chinese Ambassador Yao “As a friend of Bangladesh and a country with large investments, enterprises and personnel in Bangladesh,” he said, “China sincerely hopes that all stakeholders in Bangladesh would take the fundamental interests of the people into full consideration, properly resolve their differences, and jointly maintain political and social stability.” In two years’ time, China and Bangladesh will celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The envoy said China is willing to take this opportunity to work with Bangladeshi friends from all walks of life to stay committed to the themes of peace, stability and development, push bilateral relations to a new level, and usher in a new era of friendly cooperation. Israel has right to statehood, so does Palestine: Chinese Ambassador

Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday expressed its grave concern over the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza strip. Innocent journalists are being targeted frequently and at least 24 journalists have been killed since October 7. US Ambassador hosts reception for DCAB In a statement DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and General Secretary Emrul Kayesh condemned the targeted killing of innocent journalists in Gaza strip, noting that this is irreparable loss to their families. Killing of journalists in line of duty is a heinous crime and cowardice act, the world must now speak out against the killing of innocent journalists in Gaza, they said. DCAB pays tribute to Bangabandhu DCAB demanded neutral and full investigation into those killings under the UN system and the persons involved in such killings need to be brought to justice . DCAB called upon all sides to refrain from killing the innocent journalists. Lotus, Kayesh elected DCAB President, GS The DCAB executives expressed deep condolences and extended sympathy to the family members of the journalists who lost their precious lives.

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today (July 08, 2023) said he is not aware that dialogue between political parties over election brought any results in the past. He said the government will not talk to “any terrorists.” The foreign minister said such dialogues are not held in other countries, including in the US, and referred to those as "useless" discussion. Momen was responding to questions on political dialogue at ‘DCAB Talk’ at the Foreign Service Academy. He said foreigners can come and observe the elections. "We remain transparent. We have nothing to hide." Momen displeased at ‘seeking solutions’ of Bangladesh's internal issues from foreigners Momen said the next election will be held as per the constitution. "We have a good track record of holding good elections. We are doing our best." Responding to a question on recent remarks by China and Russia, he said those are their remarks. "You may ask them." Momen said democracy is a dynamic process and it becomes mature through practice. He said the next election will be a model election in the world. "We want all parties, who are willing, to join the elections." Justice delayed is justice denied, resolve case involving Rohingyas as soon as possible: Momen tells ICC Prosecutor The foreign minister also said there is no problem if any “terrorist party” does not join the election. Foreign Minister Momen has said that he fears there are efforts of hindering the national elections. “We have indication some are trying to hinder the election process,” he said, without elaborating further whether they are from Bangladesh or outside the country. Asked who are those making such efforts to hinder elections, he sad, “You know it better. You are journalists." Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event. DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and General Secretary Emrul Kayesh also spoke on the occasion. Dev agencies should concentrate on development issues, not politics: Momen

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has expressed displeasure over “seeking solutions” of Bangladesh's internal issues from foreigners, especially from diplomats stationed in Dhaka. “I believe you (media) will not be playing a supportive role to that end,” he said while speaking at DCAB Talk at the Foreign Service Academy.  Momen said diplomats come here to promote bilateral relations between their countries and Bangladesh. The foreign minister said the image of Bangladesh has undergone a complete change over the past decade.  Read more: Dialogues between parties not held in other countries, including in the US: Momen “Bangladesh is not a country of terrorists and terrorism activities. That is a great achievement of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,” Momen remarked.  Regarding the next national election, the foreign minister said the government is committed to holding a fair election free of violence.  It requires sincere commitment from all parties to make that happen, he said.  The foreign minister highlighted the achievements of the government and its efforts to boost export through diversification.  He said Bangladesh’s investment intention rate is very high but in some cases implementation gets slowed down.  Read more: Not aware elections in Bangladesh connected to US State Dept or EU Parliament: Russian Foreign Ministry The foreign minister said Bangladesh is a peacebuilding nation.  Referring to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Momen said peace is imperative for development.  He said democracy, human rights and justice — these are in the DNA of Bangladesh.  Momen recalled the sacrifices made by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, noting that her sacrifices go far beyond other global leaders.  He said everyone will be affected if the democratic process, peace and stability are hampered. “We need to make peace and stability sustainable. You (media) have a role to play.” Read more: No pressure, no fear in Awami League’s dictionary: Shahriar Alam The foreign minister said the government is maintaining good relations with the neighbouring countries.  He also said the government remains prudent in taking foreign loans.  As far as countries are concerned, maximum loans came from Japan while major loans came from the ADB, IMF and World Bank, he added. Bangladesh does not want to tilt towards any specific country but maintains a balanced relations with all. Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event. DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and its General Secretary Emrul Kayesh spoke at the event. Senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present on the occasion. Read more: Climate-impacted countries like Bangladesh need financial, tech support: UN Resident Coordinator

Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam today (June 25, 2023) said, the narrative of Bangladesh being a “small country” has changed globally with its growing economy, wider engagement with partners, and political stability. “Bangladesh is seen as an example of good practice in multilateral forums,” he said while speaking at DCAB Talk. Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted its flagship event at the Foreign Service Academy. Also read: UN officials praise Bangladeshi peacekeepers during meeting with PM Hasina DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus moderated the discussion. DCAB General Secretary Emrul Kayesh also spoke on the occasion. The state minister said that Bangladesh’s importance has increased significantly and its level of cooperation internationally has also been enhanced. He said Bangladesh has achieved continuity and stability, and this continuity will prevail. Responding to a question, Alam said, the government is “not feeling any pressure” ahead of the national election as the Election Commission will proceed as per the constitution. Also read: Discrimination, sexual abuse have no place in Peacekeeping Missions, Dhaka says Referring to events over 10 years ago, the state minister said that there is no word like “fear” in the dictionary of Awami League and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He also mentioned a diplomatic call for a fresh election before monsoon in the past, saying, “That sounds too ambitious.” The state minister said the government will not accept or welcome any interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs but will welcome election observers. He said there has been conspiracy against Bangladesh in the past. Also read: Climate change: Foreign Minister highlights adaptation efforts Alam said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will not take any step that goes against the interest of the people and the country. Responding to a question, Alam said that there has been significant progress that leads to the need for withdrawing US sanctions on the elite force, RAB. "We will realise the demand (withdrawal of sanctions)." In his remarks, DCAB President Rezaul Karim said they understand Bangladesh has emerged as an important country in geopolitics with its growing economy. He said Bangladesh’s extraordinary development, democratic stability, and geopolitical significance are undeniably matters of discussion at home and abroad. Read more: UN officials praise Bangladeshi peacekeepers during meeting with PM Hasina

The Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday paid tribute to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi 32 in Dhaka. DCAB members, led by its President Rezaul Karim Lotus and General Secretary Abu Hena Emrul Kayesh, placed a wreath at Bangabandhu's portrait in front of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum. They also stood in silence for a few moments showing profound respect to the memory of the Father of the Nation, his family members, Liberation War martyrs and Freedom Fighters. Read more: FOSA pays tributes to Bangabandhu at Tungipara Rezaul Karim Lotus, executive editor of the Daily Sun, and Abu Hena Emrul Kayesh, special correspondent of BanglaVision, were elected president and general secretary, respectively, of the executive committee of DCAB for 2023 on December 29 last year.

Daily Sun Executive Editor Rezaul Karim Lotus and Bangla Vision Special Correspondent Abu Hena Emrul Kayesh have been elected President and General Secretary of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) respectively for the year 2023. The Financial Express Special Correspondent Mir Mostafizur Rahaman has been elected Vice President of the DCAB unopposed while ATN News Chief of Correspondents Ashiqur Rahman Apu elected Joint Secretary. Other unopposed elected office bearers are Treasurer Atiqur Rahman (Daily Jababdihi) and Office Secretary Morshed Hassib Hasan (Channel 24). Khurram Zaman (Barta24.com), Nafiza Dawla (Independent TV), Rabiul Haque (The Industry), Sheikh Shahariar Zaman (Bangla Tribune) and Touhidur Rahman (Banglanews24.com) have been elected EC members unopposed. Read: US Ambassador hosts reception for DCAB Chief Election Commissioner and Editor of United News of Bangladesh (UNB) Farid Hossain announced the result of the election at Jatiya Press Club on Thursday afternoon.  Read: FM, SM,diplomats attend DCAB iftar Two Election Commissioners -- Business Editor of the Daily Observer Nizamuddin Ahmed and Machranga TV Head of News Rejoanul Haq Raja -- were present. Earlier, Rezaul Karim Lotus presided over the annual general meeting (AGM) of the DCAB. Outgoing General Secretary of the DCAB AKM Moinuddin and Treasurer Ahasan Jewel presented their reports at the AGM-2022. 

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas on Wednesday hosted a reception at his residence for the members of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB).   He explained that he wanted to show his gratitude for the work that the diplomatic correspondents perform in Bangladesh.   “Yours is a noble profession, and increasingly, around the world, it is a difficult and dangerous one,” Ambassador Haas told the members of DCAB. Read more: US Ambassador visits residence of the coordinator of ‘Mayer Dak’ in city He said journalists play a critical role every day in strengthening democratic institutions by informing their fellow citizens of the events happening in their countries. "This role is more important now than ever.”  Foreign diplomats from other missions attended the event.

Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) has expressed deep shock at the death of Mohammad Ali, father of its member journalist Rased Mehedi. In a condolence message on Monday, DCAB President Rezaul Karim Lotus and its General Secretary AKM Moinuddin conveyed deep sympathy to Prothidiner Bangladesh Special Correspondent Rased Mehedi and his family members. Read more: DCAB shocked over death of journalist Jhumur's mother They prayed for salvation of the departed soul. Mohammad Ali, 77, breathed his last early Monday at a hospital in Dhaka. He had long been suffering from old age complications. Read more: Journalist Raihan M Chowdhury dies Mohammad Ali was headmaster of Sonatala High School in Bagura and Principal of Panchagarh Police Line School and College. He left behind wife, two sons, a daughter and host of relatives to mourn his death. He will be buried at his family graveyard in Shibganj Upazila of Bogura later today (Monday).