United News of Bangladesh

Costa Rica has expressed its support for Bangladesh’s upcoming candidacy as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, as the two countries seek to strengthen relations across all potential areas. Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Mexico with concurrent accreditation to Costa Rica, recently held a “very warm and productive” meeting with Arnoldo André Tinoco, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica. “During our discussions, we covered a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues, including visa waivers for diplomatic and official passport holders,” Ambassador Mushfiqul said in a brief message following the meeting, shared via his verified Facebook page. They also discussed ways to strengthen trade cooperation, particularly through the import of textile and pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh, as well as closer collaboration in international forums, on which they reached a shared understanding. “We also exchanged views on future UN leadership, during which the Foreign Minister sought Bangladesh’s support for the possible candidacy of Rebeca Grynspan, the current Secretary-General of UNCTAD,” the Ambassador said, noting that he deeply appreciated the warm hospitality of Costa Rica. Bangladesh-Costa Rica relations, managed through Bangladesh’s embassy in Mexico (with concurrent accreditation), focus on fostering cultural ties, facilitating consular services such as visas and emergency assistance, and exploring avenues for bilateral cooperation. Recent diplomatic engagements reflect a strong commitment by both sides to strengthening connections despite the geographical distance.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the February 12 general elections would set a benchmark for all future polls in Bangladesh, stressing the government is fully prepared to hold 'free, fair, and transparent' elections. He said the European Union would deploy a large number of election observers and expressed hope that other development partners would also send observers to monitor the polls. “It will be a festive election. It will set the standard for good elections in the future. Let’s keep our fingers crossed,” the Chief Adviser said when the newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, paid his maiden courtesy call on the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna on Thursday. During the meeting, the two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including the upcoming general elections, sweeping labour laws approved by the Interim Government, the planned Bangladesh-US tariff agreement and Rohingya crisis. The Chief Advisor also highlighted key foreign policy initiatives of the Interim Government including Dhaka’s planned bid for ASEAN membership, and the need to revive SAARC as a key platform for regional and economic cooperation in South Asia. Ambassador Christensen, who arrived in Bangladesh earlier this month, said he was looking forward to working with whoever wins the February elections, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Friday. The US envoy praised the Interim Government’s efforts to implement vital reforms and commended Professor Yunus’s leadership over the past 18 months.

The Council of Advisers on Thursday approved a proposal to sign the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan which will help Bangladesh enjoy immediate duty-free access to the Japanese market for 7,379 products. In return, Japan will receive immediate duty-free access to 1,039 products from Bangladesh through the signing of the EPA between Bangladesh and Japan. It will be a milestone and historic agreement, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told the reporters at the Foreign Service Academy. While briefing the journalists, Alam said this will eventually help Bangladesh negotiate better with other countries on the trade front. "We are trying to diversify exports and markets," said the Press Secretary, noting Bangladesh's RMG products will enjoy duty-free market access to Japan’s market. As a Least Developed Country (LDC), the Press Secretary said, Bangladesh will, for the first time, sign an EPA with Japan, the world’s fourth-largest economy. The signing of this agreement is expected to bring far-reaching trade and economic benefits for Bangladesh, including enhanced trade, investment, and employment opportunities, marking a new chapter in the nation’s economic relations with Japan. As an early step in the negotiations, a Joint Study Group was established, which published its report on 27 December 2023. The report recommended a comprehensive approach covering 17 sectors for negotiation. The official negotiations for the EPA commenced on 12 March 2024, as per the Agreed Work Plan. The first round was held in Dhaka from 19–23 May 2024, but due to unforeseen challenges, the talks were temporarily paused. Bangladesh and Japan finalised the draft of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) last month. The Council of Advisers also approved several key ordinances, proposals and policies at its weekly meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office (CAO). Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus chaired the meeting. The Council discussed 13 major agendas, including multiple ordinances and proposals. Of them, the Council of Advisers approved 11 items while two drafts of two ordinances were sent back for further review, said the Press Secretary. The Council gave final approval to drafts of the Bangladesh Private Export Processing Zones Act (Repeal) Ordinance, 2026, the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the Bangladesh House Building Finance Corporation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the Gambling Prevention Ordinance, 2026, the Dhaka Central University Ordinance, 2026, the Private Educational Institutions Teachers and Employees Retirement Benefits Board Ordinance, 2026 and the Private Educational Institutions Teachers and Employees Welfare Trust Ordinance, 2026. The draft of the Right to Information Ordinance, 2026 also got approval of the Council of Advisers. The meeting also approved the draft of the Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) Treaty between Bangladesh and Malaysia and the National Poultry Development Policy, 2026. The Press Secretary said the Council sent back the drafts of the Money Laundering Prevention (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, and the Bangladesh National Qualifications Framework (BNQF) Policy, 2026, for further review. Chief Adviser's Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad was present at the briefing.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent Christensen on Thursday reiterated strong US support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition and lauded the interim government’s efforts towards the upcoming elections and wide-ranging reforms. The Ambassador called on National Security Advisor Dr Khalilur Rahman at the latter's office on Thursday afternoon and discussed issues of mutual interest. During the hour-long meeting, they discussed key aspects of Bangladesh-US relations, including the reciprocal tariff agreement, support to Rohingyas, immigration including visa bond and the return of undocumented Bangladeshis from the USA. American business and investment in Bangladesh, as well as regional issues of common concern were also discussed. Dr Rahman welcomed Ambassador Christensen as the new American envoy to Bangladesh and recalled his many contributions to promote bilateral relations during his previous stint in Dhaka and also in his various positions in the US government in Washington DC. He expressed the hope that the relations between the two countries will reach new heights during his current tenure, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Political and Economic Counsellor of the US embassy in Dhaka Eric Geelan was present during the meeting.  

China on Thursday reacted to China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh, urging the US side ‘to be more aware of its responsibilities, and focus more on actions’ that are ‘conducive to Bangladesh’s stability’ as well as the development and cooperation in the region. "Such remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh are irresponsible and utterly unfounded," said the Spokesperson at the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, refuting China-related remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh. The spokesperson said they confuse right and wrong, and are ‘completely out of ulterior motives’, according to the reaction shared by the Embassy from its verified Facebook page. New US Ambassador to Bangladesh raises  concern over China’s regional influence Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the spokesperson said, Bangladesh and China have always supported each other, treated one another as equals, and engaged in win-win cooperation. "The China-Bangladesh cooperation has delivered benefits to and received broad support from the people of both countries. It is conducive to the development and stability in the region," said the spokesperson. China said the cooperation between Bangladesh and China is a matter between the two countries and their peoples, and brooks no interference or finger-pointing by the US side. Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen on Wednesday said he is concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia, stressing that they have a host of options available to try to help their partner militaries meet their capability needs. ‘You know, as I said in my hearing…I am concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia. I think the United States government has been very clear about that," he said while responding to a question during an interaction with a small group of journalists. US doesn't take sides in Bangladesh elections: Ambassador Christensen "And as I committed to my hearing, I will always engage with our friends in the government—be it the interim government or the newly elected government-- to clearly articulate the risks of involvement  with the Chinese in certain areas should the Bangladesh government choose to go down that path," Ambassador Christensen said.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has said it continues to work closely with sector partners to scale up assistance and address urgent and evolving needs, stressing that fire risks remain high in the Rohingya camps. While immediate assistance continues, the latest incident underscores the persistent fire risks facing refugee communities in Cox’s Bazar, which hosts more than one million Rohingya refugees, it said. The fire risks remain high, particularly during the dry season, due to the dense layout of the camps and the use of highly flammable materials in temporary shelters, IOM said. It launched an emergency response following a large fire in a Rohingya refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar early Tuesday morning. Read more: Canada reaffirms commitment to dignity and justice for Rohingya Relief efforts are being carried out in close coordination with the Government of Bangladesh and humanitarian partners to ensure timely and appropriate assistance to affected families. “When fires strike in overcrowded camp settings, the impact extends far beyond damaged infrastructure,” said Lance Bonneau, IOM Chief of Mission in Bangladesh. “Families lose shelter, essential belongings, and access to basic services, increasing immediate protection risks. Our response is guided by a clear responsibility to protect lives, uphold dignity and ensure that those affected receive assistance quickly and safely, so families can begin to regain a sense of normalcy.” The fire affected more than 2,000 refugees, causing extensive damage to shelters and camp-based facilities. No fatalities or major injuries have been reported.  More than 400 shelters were damaged and camp infrastructure was severely impacted, including over 160 water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities such as water points and latrines, as well as 11 learning centres and two mosques. Beyond the destruction of shelters, the fire also destabilized the hillside terrain on which much of the camp is constructed, damaging drainage networks and public infrastructure, and increasing risks related to access and erosion. After the fire was contained, IOM deployed health teams and ambulances to support those with minor injuries and worked with partners to rapidly assess damage and immediate needs. Building on these assessments, IOM and its partners rapidly deployed specialized teams in shelter, WASH, and protection to support affected families. Within 24 hours of the incident, IOM’s camp management team, together with refugee volunteers, cleared debris from the fire-affected areas to restore safe access for emergency assistance and essential services. Over 49.5 lakh Bangladeshis internally displaced by natural disasters: IOM In coordination with the World Food Programme (WFP), emergency food assistance was provided, while affected households received emergency shelter assistance, blankets, floor mats, mosquito nets, and portable solar lights. Following previous devastating fires, including the March 2021 incident that displaced 45,000 people, IOM and humanitarian partners have continued to strengthen refugee-led emergency preparedness and response mechanisms to enable faster, safer, and more effective action when hazards occur.

Riyadh will host the ministerial roundtable on Monday, as part of the third edition of the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC), which will be held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, under the theme “Furture in Progress.” Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul will represent Bangladesh at the event, said the organisers on Wednesday. The event will take place at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, with the participation of 40 labor ministers from around the world, aiming to strengthen practical responses to the most pressing issues facing labor markets today. In its third edition, the ministerial roundtable will focus on moving from dialogue to implementation. Ministers will discuss actionable and immediately applicable employment pathways, exchange international best practices, and explore ways to enhance multilateral international cooperation in skills development, technology adoption, job quality, and social protection, contributing to strengthening labor market resilience. Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, said the ministerial roundtable represents a unique and important opportunity to harness the accumulated knowledge and expertise of participating countries and translate them into tangible and practical cooperation. "By bringing together ministers and international partners, we strengthen collaboration, exchange successful policy models, and work to develop regulatory frameworks that improve work environments, enhance competitiveness, and support labor market resilience," he said. The Saudi Minister said the impact of these efforts will not be limited to advancing the Saudi labor market alone, but will also contribute to creating positive and sustainable impact on labor systems worldwide. The ministerial roundtable will be chaired by Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, with the participation of Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director General of the International Labour Organization, as part of the Global Labor Market Conference, which will be held in Riyadh from 26 to 27 January. The conference is organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in strategic partnership with several international organizations. The ministerial roundtable serves as a strategic global platform for the exchange of insights and expertise on the future of labor markets, building on the outcomes of previous editions of the Ministerial Roundtable. The Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) is an international platform that brings together governments, international institutions, the private sector, experts, academics, and youth voices to examine the current state of global labor markets and shape their future. Through year-round initiatives and a flagship annual event, GLMC promotes evidence-based dialogue, knowledge exchange, and cross-sector collaboration to identify practical and sustainable solutions that support fair, resilient, and competitive labor markets. Focusing on critical issues such as workforce development, technological transformation, economic mobility, and the evolving nature of work, GLMC is committed to translating insights into practical, sustainable solutions that deliver real-world impact.

Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen on Wednesday said he is concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia, stressing that they have a host of options available to try to help their partner militaries meet their capability needs. ‘You know, as I said in my hearing…I am concerned about broader Chinese influence in South Asia. I think the United States government has been very clear about that," he said while responding to a question during an interaction with a small group of journalists. Bangladesh Polls: Ghana's ex-President to lead Commonwealth observer group "And as I committed to my hearing, I will always engage with our friends in the government—be it the interim government or the newly elected government-- to clearly articulate the risks of involvement with the Chinese in certain areas should the Bangladesh government choose to go down that path," Ambassador Christensen said. He said the US and Bangladesh have strong military-to-military cooperation, and it has been growing stronger. The envoy said they have partnerships across all branches of Bangladesh defense forces, working with the Navy on maritime security, with the Army, and with the Air Force on operational and emergency response readiness through a host of training and exercises. He said they are working with the Bangladeshi military in support of its plans for modernisation and developing its capabilities, especially as it looks to expand what it can do in peacekeeping, but also what it can do here for domestic security needs. ‘We don't take any side,’ says US Ambassador Christensen "You know, security issues are a topic..... of great interest to me given the prior role that I had as a senior official back in Washington and also my long experience here in Bangladesh," the Ambassador said. During his nomination hearing, Senator Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, a Republican, asked Christensen about what he described as Bangladesh’s growing military-to-military cooperation with China. Saying he shared the senator's concern over Chinese influence in South Asia, Christensen at the hearing said if confirmed, he would engage with the Bangladesh government and military to “clearly articulate the risks from Chinese activity, involvement with their military activities in the maritime domain and in their critical infrastructure, as well as highlight the opportunities and benefits that come with a closer partnership with the United States, especially military-to-military.”

Nana Akufo-Addo, former President of the Republic of Ghana, will lead the Commonwealth observer group for Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July Charter.  The Charter is a post-uprising reform framework proposing political and constitutional changes. Both polls are scheduled for 12 February 2026. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, announced the composition of the 14-member Observer Group in London, following an invitation from the Bangladesh Election Commission. She reaffirmed the fundamental importance of 'credible, transparent and inclusive' electoral processes in strengthening democratic governance and supporting long-term stability.  The Secretary-General said as they deploy their team to observe the elections and referendum being held concurrently in Bangladesh. ‘We don't take any side,’ says US Ambassador Christensen "Our presence in Bangladesh is guided not only by the responsibility to observe, but by a commitment to uphold the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people at this crucial moment in their democratic journey, acting independently and impartially to help ensure that their collective will is freely expressed.” She extended her sincere appreciation to these eminent Commonwealth citizens who have dedicated the beginning of their new year to preparing for this significant assignment in support of the people of Bangladesh. President Akufo-Addo will be joined by experts from across the Commonwealth, including professionals in politics, law, media, gender, and election administration.  The Observer Group will be supported by a Secretariat team led by Linford Andrews, Head and Adviser, Electoral Support Section. The mandate of the Commonwealth Observer Group is to observe the electoral process and provide an independent assessment of whether the elections and referendum are conducted in a credible, transparent, and inclusive manner.  The Group will report on the conduct of the electoral process in line with the standards to which Bangladesh has committed itself, including its national laws. Bangladesh, Afghanistan agree to boost ties through economic partnership Upon completion of its mission, the Observer Group will submit a report containing its findings and recommendations to the Commonwealth Secretary-General.  The report will subsequently be shared with the Government of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Election Commission, political parties, all Commonwealth governments, and made publicly available.

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.