United News of Bangladesh

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday said the government is committed to transforming the armed forces into a modern, technology-driven, four-dimensional force to effectively address evolving challenges. The President said the government's "Bangladesh First" policy has been adopted to strengthen defence planning, preparedness, deterrence capability and the country's overall national security strategy, he said while addressing the 51st founding anniversary of the President Guard Regiment (PGR) at Dhaka Cantonment. "Implementation of these policies and initiatives will enhance the overall capability and efficiency of the armed forces. The country's defence system will become more efficient, modern and stronger. At the same time, the operational capability of the PGR as a specialised unit of the Bangladesh Army will also be strengthened," he said. The President said the security of the Head of State, the Head of Government and other important national and foreign dignitaries is closely linked to national security and the country's prestige. He stressed the need for stronger coordination among law enforcement agencies, intelligence organisations and relevant ministries to ensure an even more robust security system. "I know you are performing your duties in coordination with one another. I hope this understanding and cooperation will be further strengthened in the future," he said. The President also urged PGR personnel to give the highest priority to the protection of important personalities while ensuring that security arrangements do not hinder their normal interaction and communication with public. Highlighting emerging security challenges, Shahabuddin emphasised the need to enhance technology-based capabilities, intelligence analysis and inter-agency coordination to tackle cyberattacks, artificial intelligence (AI)-based risks and hybrid security threats. "The concept of security is changing rapidly around the world, and new threats have emerged alongside conventional security risks," he said. "There is no alternative to strengthening technology-driven capabilities, intelligence analysis, effective strategies and constant preparedness to address these challenges," the President added. He expressed hope that the President Guard Regiment would further enhance its capabilities through modern technology, international-standard training and professional excellence, while keeping pace with evolving global security strategies. The President paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War, valiant freedom fighters and Biranganas. He also remembered martyred President Ziaur Rahman, saying the President Guard Regiment developed into its present form under his leadership. He also acknowledged the contribution of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the expansion and professional development of the regiment. The President paid homage to the five PGR members who were killed during the assassination of President Ziaur Rahman on May 30, 1981, as well as all members who laid down their lives in the line of duty. He also prayed for the souls of those killed during the July-August 2024 mass uprising and expressed sympathy for those who were injured. Describing the PGR as one of the Bangladesh Army's most specialised, disciplined and professional units, Shahabuddin said it plays a vital role in ensuring the security of the President, the Prime Minister, foreign dignitaries and other important state personalities, while representing the country's dignity during state ceremonies. He said the regiment has evolved into a comprehensive and independent institution as its responsibilities have expanded over time. Addressing PGR officers, junior commissioned officers (JCOs) and soldiers, the President said their duties are highly sensitive, prestigious and challenging, requiring vigilance, sound judgement, self-discipline, professional competence and the ability to make swift decisions at all times. He commended PGR personnel for carrying out their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism despite adverse weather, complex situations and long working hours, thereby upholding the proud traditions of both the regiment and the Bangladesh Army. The President said that alongside modern weapons and technology, discipline, loyalty to leadership, ethics and a strong sense of responsibility remain equally important for maintaining a professional force. At the same time, he said PGR members must remain sensitive to ensuring that security measures do not disrupt normal public access to and interaction with important personalities. Expressing confidence in the regiment's future, Shahabuddin said the President Guard Regiment would continue to earn public trust through integrity, discipline, professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility while setting an example in the discharge of state duties. Army Chief, Military Secretary to the President, Secretary to the President and Press Secretary to the President were present at the darbar.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Wednesday urged members of the Law Reporters' Forum (LRF) to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and integrity in  legal journalism. The President made the call during a courtesy meeting with a 12-member delegation of the Law Reporters' Forum, led by its President Hasan Zaved and General Secretary Moniruzzaman Mission, at Bangabhaban. President’s press secretary Md Sarwar Alam briefed the reporters after the meeting. Describing legal journalism as an important bridge between the judiciary and people, the President said law reporters play a vital role in ensuring objective and accurate reporting of court proceedings and landmark judgments. He also appreciated their contribution to raising public awareness of legal issues by presenting complex legal matters in simple and understandable language. President Shahabuddin said the supremacy of the Constitution, the rule of law and the delivery of justice are the fundamental pillars of a democratic state. He said the government is attaching the highest priority to establishing the rule of law, ensuring justice, protecting human rights and promoting good governance in line with the Constitution. The President said various initiatives are being implemented to modernise the judiciary and expand the use of information technology in the justice system. He expressed hope that access to justice would become easier and faster through the coordinated efforts and sincere participation of lawyers, legal journalists and others concerned. The President also urged legal journalists to uphold the dignity of the courts and exercise due caution while reporting on matters that are sub judice. He also called on journalists to remain alert in tackling the challenges posed by misinformation, disinformation and false content circulating on social media. Earlier, the President unveiled a special souvenir published to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Law Reporters' Forum. Secretary to the President Khan Mohammad Nurul Amin, Press Secretary Md. Sarwar Alam and Assistant Military Secretary Brig Gen Mohammad Raisul Islam, among others, were present on the occasion.  

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of eminent cultural personality and renowned artist Mustafa Monwar. In a condolence message, the President prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family members, Press secretary Md.Sarwar Alam told UNB. Legendary cultural figure Mustafa Monwar passes away The President said Mustafa Monwar was one of the pioneering figures in Bangladesh's fine arts, puppet theatre, drama and children's television programming. Describing his death as an irreparable loss to the country's arts and cultural arena, the President said the nation would always remember with profound respect his outstanding contributions to the promotion of indigenous culture, healthy entertainment for children and the nurturing of creativity.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday called on South Korea to further expand bilateral trade and investment with Bangladesh, highlighting the country's improved business climate and growing economic opportunities. The President made the call when newly appointed South Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh Kim Ji-joon presented his credentials at Bangabhaban. Press Secretary to the President Sarwar Alam briefed reporters after the meeting. Bangladesh hosts semiconductor roadshow in South Korea Welcoming the envoy, President Shahabuddin said South Korea is one of Bangladesh’s largest foreign investors.  He noted that nearly 100 Korean companies, including global brands Samsung and Hyundai, are operating and investing in the Korean EPZ established by Youngone Group in Chattogram as well as in other export processing zones across the country. The President said Bangladesh currently enjoys an excellent business and investment-friendly environment following the assumption of office by a democratically elected government through a free and fair election. He urged the new ambassador to encourage increased Korean investment in sectors such as light engineering, electronics, shipbuilding, agro-processing, information and communication technology (ICT), ready-made garments and infrastructure development. Expressing satisfaction over the growing trade relations between the two countries, President Shahabuddin requested South Korea to continue its duty-free and quota-free market access facility for 95 percent of Bangladeshi products for at least four more years after Bangladesh graduates from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category. The President also expressed satisfaction with the overall progress toward signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries. Describing South Korea as an important development partner of Bangladesh, he praised the activities of Korean development agencies and said their financial assistance has contributed significantly to the country’s socio-economic development. He also appreciated South Korea’s Employment Permit System (EPS) and sought the ambassador’s support in recruiting more Bangladeshi workers in Korean industries, particularly in shipbuilding and ICT sectors. In response, Ambassador Kim said South Korea is keen to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties with Bangladesh and pledged to work toward expanding cooperation in business, culture, education and other areas. Earlier in the day, newly appointed Ambassador of Morocco to Bangladesh Lalla Bouthaina El Kerdoudi El Koulali  presented her credentials to the President. During the meeting, President Shahabuddin described Bangladesh-Morocco relations as excellent and steadily progressing. He recalled the 1981 visit of late President Ziaur Rahman to Morocco and expressed gratitude to the Moroccan people for naming a road in Rabat after the former Bangladeshi president. The President urged Morocco to explore opportunities for employing skilled and semi-skilled Bangladeshi workers in sectors including healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure development, textiles and garments, and ICT. He said there remains significant potential for expanding trade and investment between the two friendly nations and stressed the importance of exchanging high-level government and private-sector trade and investment delegations to further strengthen bilateral relations. Both ambassadors sought the President’s cooperation in carrying out their diplomatic responsibilities in Bangladesh.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Wednesday expressed deep satisfaction as well as pride and relief over Bangladesh’s election to the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). In a congratulatory message, the President extended heartfelt greetings to the current democratic government, the country’s diplomats, UNGA President-elect Dr Khalilur Rahman, and the people of Bangladesh for what he described as a “remarkable achievement on the global stage.” Bangladesh back on global stage with honor and dignity, Ambassador Mushfiqul says after UNGA victory He also expressed gratitude to all member states that showed full confidence and support for Bangladesh. The election was held on Tuesday at the UN Headquarters in New York, where Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman secured the position by defeating the Cyprus candidate. In his statement, the President said this achievement will further strengthen Bangladesh’s dignity, acceptance, and influence in the international arena. The 81st UNGA session is scheduled to formally begin on September 8, while the high-level general debate featuring heads of state and government will commence on September 22. 

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Saturday emphasised that widespread public awareness and strict enforcement of the law are crucial to prevent tobacco addiction and protect public health.  In a message marking the ‘World No-Tobacco Day’, President Shahabuddin said Tobacco cultivation, processing and the use of tobacco products are extremely harmful to public health, the environment and the economy. "Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of various life-threatening diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes,” he said. He said nearly 200,000 people die every year in Bangladesh from tobacco-related diseases, which put a heavy burden on families and impede national development. “Many young people are becoming addicted to smoking due to the attractive promotional campaigns of tobacco companies,” he added. The President expressed the hope that the proper implementation and strict enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Act, 2026 would play an important role in protecting women, children and the younger generation from the harmful effects of tobacco. He urged the administration, civil society, relevant organisations and the mass-media to work in a coordinated manner to raise awareness against tobacco use. He wished every success to all programmes undertaken on the occasion the ‘World No-Tobacco Day 2026’.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has issued a message on the occasion of the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, paying his deepest respect to his immortal memory. “On this solemn day, I respectfully and gratefully remember the outstanding contributions of this heroic commander of the Liberation War, proclaimer of independence, pioneer of multi-party democracy, architect of modern Bangladesh, and visionary statesman,” he said. Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman remains an unforgettable name in the history of Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty, and democratic progress, Shahabuddin said. In the early hours of 26 March 1971, this brave soldier called upon the nation to engage in armed resistance against the Pakistani occupation forces, he said. “His call and declaration of independence showed a path of hope to a bewildered nation and inspired people from all walks of life to unite and actively participate in the Liberation War. In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, military strategy, and contribution to the war, he was awarded the title of ‘Bir Uttam’.” The President said after independence, political instability, the curtailment of civil liberties and freedom of speech, widespread anarchy, corruption, and looting brought the state structure close to collapse. “At such a critical moment, against the backdrop of the joint revolution of soldiers and people, the responsibility of leading the country was entrusted to him. During various difficult periods in the nation’s history, he played the role of a saviour and rescuer. His unique contribution and successful leadership will continue to guide future generations,” he said. Assuming responsibility for state affairs, this wise statesman established multi-party democracy and ensured freedom of speech, expression, and the press, Shahabuddin said. “Regardless of religion, ethnicity, or whether people lived in the hills or plains, he united the entire nation under the spirit of Bangladeshi nationalism.” He said for socio-economic development, boosting investment and export, attaining self-reliance, and improvements in living standards, Ziaur Rahman introduced multifaceted plans and groundbreaking programmes. “His 19-point programme served as a blueprint for building a productive and self-reliant Bangladesh.” The President said through initiatives in agricultural development, canal excavation, increased food production, family planning, village government, rural development, and mass education, he brought people into the mainstream of national development. “His contributions to youth development, women’s empowerment, child welfare, and the promotion of education and culture remain unforgettable.” To uphold Bangladesh’s interests on the international stage, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman adopted a balanced foreign policy, he said. “He established dignified, friendly, and cooperative relations with the Muslim world, Southeast Asia, China, and Western countries.” He was the first to institutionalise access for Bangladeshi workers to labour markets in the Middle East and other regions, Shahabuddin said. “As a result of his far-sighted initiatives, remittances sent by expatriates have become one of the principal driving forces of the national economy. It was also through his active efforts that the path was paved for the eventual establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).” He said Ziaur Rahman had only a short time to lead the country. “Yet within that brief period, the patriotism, integrity, dedication, and vision with which he advanced the nation remain a shining example to this day.” The President expressed his belief that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s simple and selfless life, strong personality, unquestionable honesty, and image as a pragmatic and energetic statesman will remain forever alive in the hearts of the people. “I hope that his active life, profound love for the country, firm stance against corruption, commitment to justice and fairness, vision of self-reliant development, and ideals will continue to inspire future generations.” He also prayed to Almighty Allah to grant Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman the highest place in Jannatul Ferdous.

Diplomats from around the world stationed in Dhaka joined the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations at the invitation of the President of Bangladesh.  The occasion once again provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and partners and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has returned home after completion of his follow-up treatment and health examinations in London. A commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the President landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 10:50am, said his press secretary Sarwar Alam. Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Yousef S. Y. Ramadan, British High Commission Counsellor Alison J Cross, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Minister’s Office and the President’s Office received the President at the airport. Following doctors’ advice, President Shahabuddin left for London on May 9 for follow-up treatment and medical examinations. On May 12, an angiogram was conducted under the supervision of interventional cardiologist Dr. Stephen Hoole at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge.  During the procedure, a serious blockage was detected in his heart, prompting immediate angioplasty and the successful placement of a stent. The President’s physical condition is currently stable and satisfactory, according to officials. Earlier, in October 2023, the President underwent cardiac bypass surgery in Singapore. During the visit, the President also held an informal courtesy meeting with Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris at the Hilton London.

Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris on Saturday paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, who is currently staying in the United Kingdom. The informal meeting took place this morning at the lobby of the Hilton Hotel in London, where the Sudanese Prime Minister inquired about the President’s health and wished him a speedy recovery, President's Press Secretary Sarwar Alam said. Quoting President’s PS Md. Didarul Alam, who is accompanying him in the UK, Sarwar told UNB that Dr. Idris prayed to Almighty Allah for the overall well-being of the people of Bangladesh and for the President’s good health during the warm and cordial interaction. President diagnosed with heart block, undergoes stent implantation in UK