With the submission of the recommendations of the first four reform commissions on 15 January, the European Union (EU) now looks to the interim government and political parties to identify priority reforms on which there is consensus. The EU on Friday said it stands ready to support ambitious reforms on democracy, rule of law, and human rights. The EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller met with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party leadership to learn about its political platform, following the December announcement of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on possible election dates. 

Expressing satisfaction with the steady growth in bilateral trade, Bangladesh on Thursday urged Australia's outgoing envoy to advocate for the establishment of an Australian visa processing facility in Dhaka and to work towards easing visa procedures for Bangladeshi nationals. Acting High Commissioner of Australia to Bangladesh Nardia Simpson paid a farewell courtesy call on Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at his office. The Foreign Secretary commended Simpson for her efforts in strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Australia. He particularly highlighted the successful convening of the 5th round of senior officials’ talks and the joint working group meeting under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), as well as the recent visit of the Australian Home Minister, which significantly contributed to further consolidating the ties between the two countries. The Foreign Secretary underscored the importance of holding regular dialogues under the agreed bilateral frameworks. Simpson reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to its robust partnership with Bangladesh, emphasizing the high importance the Australian government attaches to this relationship. She expressed her appreciation for Bangladesh's steadfast commitment and actions in combating human trafficking and assured her continued efforts at Headquarters to address visa and consular issues upon her return. The discussions also covered areas of collaboration, including education, skills development, and the Rohingya crisis, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Secretary congratulated Simpson on the successful completion of her tenure in Bangladesh and extended his best wishes for her future endeavors.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's planned visit to China is set to strengthen the deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership shared by both nations, signaling a renewed commitment to advancing their strategic cooperation. Bangladesh and China expressed optimism that the Foreign Adviser’s visit will pave the way for a "new chapter of cooperation" between Bangladesh and China. Fakhrul discusses bilateral issues with Chinese ambassador During the visit, the top diplomats of the two countries are expected to formally announce the inauguration of celebration of the 50th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador of China to Bangladesh Yao Wen met Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the Ministry on Thursday ahead of the Foreign Adviser’s visit to China scheduled for 20–24 January. The meeting mainly highlighted the preparation of Foreign Adviser’s visit on both sides.  It was underlined that the upcoming visit would "carry special significance" as it is the first official bilateral visit of Adviser Hossain this year.  The Ambassador expressed China’s sincere appreciation for Bangladesh’s unwavering support to One-China Policy.  He reaffirmed China’s firm respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reiterated China’s continued support for Bangladesh’s stability, reforms, and democratic transition.  Chinese Embassy holds ‘Happy Chinese New Year Festival’ Temple Fair at Gulshan Society Lake Park The envoy emphasized that this visit would further cement the cooperative ties between the two nations. Ambassador Wen also underscored the importance of strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, with a particular focus on projects like the China Economic Zone in Chattogram and the enhancement of connectivity initiatives.  He also emphasized the importance of practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in sectors such as digital connectivity and port modernisation. Regional and global issues also featured in the discussions, notably the ongoing Rohingya crisis.  The Foreign Secretary conveyed Bangladesh’s deep appreciation for China’s active role in facilitating dialogue on the issue and sought China’s continued support in ensuring an early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.  Both sides expressed a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.  Environment Adviser seeks Chinese cooperation in air quality management The meeting also touched upon exchange of visits and agreed that such visits will further strengthen the bilateral relationship and contribute to greater cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.

US Science Envoy for Air Quality Dr Jamie Schauer on Thursday concluded a week-long visit to Dhaka, stressing the need for advanced monitoring systems and source apportionment studies to guide policy, address seasonal and localised pollution patterns, and encourage cross-sectoral collaboration. During his visit from January 12-16, Dr Schauer demonstrating the US government's strong commitment to supporting Bangladesh's efforts in tackling air pollution. He collaborated with local academics, government officials and NGOs, sharing expert insights and practical solutions to improve air quality. His visit emphasised the importance of air quality management, effective policies and academic collaboration to address the complex air pollution challenges facing Bangladesh, including the urgent need for advanced monitoring systems, cleaner technologies and multi-sectoral partnerships.

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has said both India and the US want to see democracy and elections in Bangladesh as soon as possible which will ultimately help Bangladesh open its next chapter. "Both of us want to see democracy and democratic elections established in Bangladesh as soon as possible, and that can help Bangladesh open its next chapter," he told WION in an exclusive interview. Bangladesh Ambassador to US to attend Trump’s inauguration as per tradition The Ambassador said it is not about the past, it is about what they can do together. And India and the United States have never acted together around the world more closely than today, the US envoy said. The US envoy in India made Bangladesh election-related comments for the first time. "I think we both share the principles that we want to see a peaceful, democratic South Asia and we share those principles," Ambassador Garcetti said. India “observed all protocols, agreements” with regard to security measures, fencing: MEA He said they are coordinating on that together. "We've spoken out clearly that, whether it's Bangladesh or any other country, religious minorities should not be persecuted. And I think we have an opportunity," the US Ambassador added.  

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday said they have no information whether former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken any Indian citizenship. Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Rafiqul Alam came up with the remarks while responding to a question at the ministry’s weekly briefing. He also said it is a matter to be considered by the Indian government on what status she is staying in India. India extends Hasina’s visa amid Bangladesh’s extradition demand The spokesperson also said Dhaka is waiting for India’s reply regarding Bangladesh’s new High Commissioner to India as Bangladesh sought agrimo (recognition). “We are waiting for India’s reply. I don’t think it is taking more time than usual. There is no specific timeframe but usually it is by 3 to 4 months,” said the spokesperson. Regarding the signed deals between Bangladesh and India, he said these all documents are already in the public domain. Apparently referring to deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s reported visa extension, the interim government recently said visa issue does not exist once passport is cancelled. Earlier, the Department of Immigration and Passports revoked the passports of 97 people, including Hasina, due to their alleged involvement in the July killings and alleged involvement in enforced disappearances. Hasina’s visa extension not taken positively by people: Rizvi However, the Hindustan Times, a major national daily of India, reported that Hasina’s visa extension was recently approved, facilitated by India’s Union Home Ministry through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). Hasina, 77, has been residing in India since fleeing her country in August last year, following widespread protests that culminated in her resignation. The spokesperson also said they have not yet received a response to the letter (note verbale) sent to India requesting Hasina's extradition. Hasina among 75 whose passports stripped over July killings

Following the tradition, Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Asad Alam Siam will attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration day on January 20 that includes a formal swearing-in ceremony as well as musical performances and a celebratory parade. “There is a tradition and as per the tradition, this time too, Mission heads in the US have been invited,” Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Rafiqul Alam told reporters at the weekly briefing on Thursday. Ambassador Asad Alam Siam will attend the ceremony on behalf of the government of Bangladesh, Alam said, stressing that there has been no deviation from the tradition. Dhaka renews efforts to explore opportunities in Africa Trump will move back into the White House on Monday after he officially becomes the 47th President of the United States. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said that Bangladesh's ties with major powers like the United States are not government-specific, indicating no major change in relations during Donald Trump's presidency. "We have nothing to speculate," he said, expressing optimism things will move on smoothly in terms of relations with the United States. "Our relations with India, China and the US are very important. We will surely maintain balanced relations with these three countries protecting our own interests," Hossain said, adding that Bangladesh is not to be dissatisfied with any country. He said Bangladesh will maintain good relations with these three countries protecting Dhaka's interests. Dr Yunus to attend World Economic Forum in Switzerland President-elect Donald Trump is preparing more than 100 executive orders starting Day One of the new White House, in what amounts to a shock-and-awe campaign on border security, deportations and a rush of other policy priorities, according to an AP report. Trump told Republican senators about the onslaught ahead during a private meeting on Capitol Hill. Many of the actions are expected to launch on Inauguration Day, Jan 20, when he takes office. Bangladesh needs global support for climate adaptation: France Trump top adviser Stephen Miller outlined for the GOP senators the border security and immigration enforcement measures that are likely to launch soonest.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has renewed its efforts to explore business opportunities in Africa by addressing the challenges.   As part of its renewed initiative, the ministry hosted an inter-ministerial meeting on January 15 chaired by Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. The meeting, the first of its kind, underscored the ministry's commitment to facilitating constructive dialogue and supporting the efforts of Bangladeshi businesses in Africa. Chinese envoy discusses bilateral ties with foreign secretary The discussion centered on addressing challenges faced by Bangladeshi entrepreneurs operating in Africa and exploring actionable solutions. The meeting also focused on how Bangladesh Missions in Africa, in coordination with the relevant ministries and agencies of Bangladesh, can facilitate the import of agro-products, including cotton, from Africa, while also encouraging Bangladeshi entrepreneurs to expand their presence on the continent. Key proposals included the establishment of free zones for importing agro products, simplification of the Letter of Credit (LC) process, and exploring fund support options through Bangladesh Bank, said the MoFA on Thursday. Dhaka shares national aspiration for "credible, inclusive" polls with UN Representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, National Board of Revenue (NBR), Bangladesh Bank, Bangladesh Cotton Association, Cotton Development Board, and Bangladesh Textile Mills Association took part in the discussions. Entrepreneurs engaged in agricultural production in African countries, including cotton and lentils, shared their insights and highlighted the challenges they face.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will attend the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on January 21-24 where he will engage with the global leaders on regional and global issues in addition to his bilateral engagements. Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Rafiqul Alam confirmed the official visit of the Chief Adviser during a weekly briefing on Thursday. Chief Adviser's Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi and Principle Coordinator on SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed will accompany Dr Yunus during the visit, he said. The annual meeting 2025 convenes global leaders to address key global and regional challenges. These include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding just and inclusive energy transition. Read: Chief Adviser Yunus to attend 11th D-8 Summit in Cairo The 2025 annual meeting of the World Economic Forum takes place from January 20-24 January in Davos, Switzerland. This year's meeting will convene under the theme 'Collaboration for the Intelligent Age' and the programme will be oriented around five distinct but highly interconnected thematic priorities: The meeting brings together nearly 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries, and 350 governmental leaders, including 60 heads of states and governments, from all key regions. Read more: Prof Yunus to attend UNGA with 'small, functional' delegation: Foreign Adviser

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Thursday met Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides had in-depth exchanges of views on Bangladesh-China relations, bilateral cooperation and joint celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Bangladesh. Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain will pay an official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on January 20-24 which is described as “very important first bilateral visit” after the formation of the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus in August last year. Read: Dhaka to urge Beijing for lower interest rates, extended repayment period: Touhid Hossain The foreign adviser said he will leave Dhaka on January 20 (evening) and will return to Dhaka on January 24. He will have engagements on January 21-23. Bangladesh sees Hossain’s maiden bilateral visit to China as a “great opportunity” to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations with Beijing giving an outline for the future cooperation.