United News of Bangladesh

US President Donald J. Trump has congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his assumption of office and expressed hope for stronger defence cooperation between the two countries. In his message to Tarique Rahman, President Trump said he expects the new Prime Minister to take decisive steps to complete the routine defence agreements that would enable Bangladesh’s military to access high-end American-made equipment, which he described as the best in the world. “I look forward to working with you to make the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh stronger than ever before,” he said in a letter to PM Tarique, shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday. President Trump said the partnership between the two countries is based on mutual respect and a shared interest in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, sovereign nations can prosper. “As you begin your term, I hope you will help me maintain the tremendous momentum in our trade relationship through the implementation of our Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, which benefits farmers and workers in both of our countries,” he said. President Trump said his Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, has my full confidence. “Together, we have an opportunity to make both of our nations more prosperous and secure.” “Good luck to you in the days ahead,” he said, congratulating PM Tarique on his historic election and wishing him a successful term as Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed on Thursday said Bangladesh has issues and challenges with all countries, which will be addressed through discussions at bilateral and multilateral forums. “We want to look forward, keeping our backbone strong and straight. That backbone has now become stronger after a long time as the government came through people’s mandate. All now need to look at Bangladesh from a different perspective,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sharing how the foreign policy of a democratic government should be. Asked about the interim government's reported policy position regarding deployment of Bangladeshi troops to Gaza and renewal of the 30-year-old Ganges water-sharing treaty with India, the State Minister said these issues have not yet been discussed at the political level. "These are not discussed yet. To be honest, this is only the second day of the government. But you will have to wait…those political decisions will definitely,” she said. On relations with India, China and the United States, Shama said Bangladesh has issues and challenges with all countries and would address them through both bilateral and multilateral engagements. "We will maintain relations with all states and governments. Our foremost priority is to safeguard the interests of Bangladesh and its people," she said. The State Minister said they will keep in touch with all countries, talk and advance relations through friendship. She said the current administration is a democratically elected government after many years and will pursue foreign policy with a firm and principled stance, placing the interests of people first. The State Minister said Bangladesh will continue its engagement with all countries and affirmed that the government’s foreign policy would reflect the will and aspirations of the people. She said the government would safeguard the interests of the people of Bangladesh while maintaining cordial relations with all nations. Diplomacy, she said, will be conducted in a manner that effectively protects national interests. She said the officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are very experienced and they will work as a team. She also highlighted the need to conduct foreign policy with a united stance in the national interest, regardless of political party, opinion and religion. On visa restrictions imposed by several countries, Shama said the Ministry is aware of the challenges and is actively working to resolve them through diplomatic channels. "We are examining how these issues can be addressed and how we can move forward in a constructive manner," she said Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and the State Minister held a series of meetings with senior officials of the Ministry in the morning.

Visiting Nepalese Minister for Foreign Affairs Bala Nanda Sharma on Wednesday met Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work closely across bilateral, regional, and multilateral platforms, advancing the shared interests of the two countries and peoples. The Nepalese Foreign Minister congratulated his Bangladesh counterpart on his appointment as the Foreign Minister of the government of Bangladesh. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Shama Obaed Islam, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, and Director General Israt Jahan were also present in the meeting. Foreign Minister Sharma was accompanied by Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari, Joint Secretary Gahendra Rajbhandari, Deputy Chief of Mission Lalita Silwal, and Under Secretary Madhusudan Bhattarai. Special prayer for Khaleda Zia held at Kathmandu mission

Newly appointed Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Wednesday said they want to get back to the foreign policy of martyred President Ziaur Rahman which was very positive and expansive, stressing that the government wants to maintain a good relationship with each country while at the same time protecting the country’s interests. “Foreign policy is a very serious matter,” he told reporters at the state guest house Padma in the evening, seeking objectivity from the media while reporting on foreign affairs. The Foreign Minister said an imprudent or misleading statement can affect international relations and urged journalists to maintain objectivity and avoid rumors. NSA Dr Khalilur Rahman parries questions on Biman Board appointment He urged the media to keep eyes on them, noting that they want to demonstrate accountability. Dr Khalilur said it is very important to communicate and they will continue to remain engaged with the media as their activities will be people-centric. Dr Rahman announced that “Bangladesh First” would serve as the central organizing principle of the country’s foreign policy. Under this framework, he said, Dhaka will seek respectful, mutually beneficial relations with all nations, particularly its neighbors, grounded in sovereign equality and shared interests. “Bangladesh First will be the core philosophy of our foreign policy,” he said. “We aim to maintain good relations with all countries, especially our neighbors, based on respect and mutual benefit.” On his first day in office, the minister described a comprehensive reassessment of Bangladesh’s external engagement, anchored in sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs, national dignity and honor, and reciprocity. He underscored that these five principles would guide diplomatic conduct going forward. “We will protect our national interest to the fullest extent.” Responding to a question on regional stability, Dr Rahman said Bangladesh seeks to reclaim a confident and proactive diplomatic posture, recalling the foundations laid in the country’s early years. No talks on ‘corridor’: Dr Khalilur Rahman He referenced Bangladesh’s successful bid for a seat on the UN Security Council soon after gaining membership in the United Nations, as well as its role in establishing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation to strengthen regional connectivity. “We seek to restore that confident, expanded and forward-looking diplomatic posture,” he said. “Our foreign policy will be firmly centered on national interest. By carefully safeguarding our priorities, we will conduct responsible and courageous diplomacy.” Acknowledging the complexity of the task ahead, the Minister described the responsibility as both challenging and meaningful. “Our goal is to build a foreign policy that reflects the will and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh,” he said, pledging a strategy rooted in national interest and constructive global engagement. On relations with neighboring countries, Dr Rahman reiterated the government’s commitment to balanced and pragmatic engagement. Where complexities or stagnation exist, he said, efforts will continue to resolve obstacles and normalize ties. “Our foreign policy will be guided exclusively by national interest,” he added. “It will not be shaped by personal or partisan considerations.” Regarding potential bilateral visits, the minister said it was premature to announce specific destinations. Invitations have been received from various countries, and decisions will be communicated in due course. Addressing the Rohingya crisis, Dr Rahman affirmed that the government’s focus would intensify. He said during the interim period Bangladesh maintained communication with both the Myanmar government and the Arakan Army, and that such engagement would continue. “Our focus on the Rohingya issue will not diminish, in fact, it will be strengthened,” he said. “We seek a swift, realistic, and sustainable resolution.” Dr Khalilur Rahman urges Rohingyas to avoid violence and focus on successful resolution of issues He assured that the ministry would provide regular updates and uphold accountability in its conduct. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, who was also present at the briefing, acknowledged her new role would be both challenging and engaging. She affirmed that the government’s foreign policy would reflect the will and aspirations of the people. “BNP’s position is that we will protect the interests of the people of Bangladesh while maintaining good relations with all countries,” she said, adding that diplomacy would be conducted in a manner necessary to safeguard national interests. Earlier, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi extended congratulations to newly appointed Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur. Wang Yi, who is also Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, expressed his intent to work with Foreign Minister Rahman to jointly implement the important understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries and advance the Bangladesh-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights. Dr Jaishanker said he looks forward to working together with Foreign Minister Rahman to advance cooperation between Bangladesh and India for mutual progress and prosperity, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Minister served as Chief Adviser's High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and Priority Affairs and National Security Adviser during the interim government’s period. He joined BCS (Foreign Affairs) in 1979 after securing the first position in the first regular civil service examination after independence held in 1977. Dr Khalilur served in various capacities in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York. In 1991, he joined the United Nations secretariat as a Special Adviser and served in different senior UN positions during the next 25 years. In November 2024, he was appointed as the High Representative with the status and privileges of an Adviser. Dr Khalilur stood first class first in MA examinations in Economics at Dhaka University in 1977. During 1980-83, he attended the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University and the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University and earned the degrees of MA in Law and Diplomacy and PhD in Economics.

Diplomats stationed in Dhaka on Wednesday expressed solidarity with The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, highlighting the importance of freedom of press and freedom of speech as an important pillar of democracy. The Ambassadors and High Commissioners and representatives of the diplomatic missions in Dhaka joined a programme held in front of the Prothom Alo office at Karwan Bazar, marking the inauguration of an art exhibition titled ‘An Artwork on the Attacked and Burnt Prothom Alo Building’ by artist Mahbubur Rahman. Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh Michael Miller, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke, Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh, French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet and Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro were, among others, present.    EU Ambassador Miller said he and many of his colleagues came to express solidarity in December last and they have come back as they believe in freedom of media and freedom of expression and they believe that journalists are fearless defenders of democracy.   Expressing solidarity with The daily Star and Prothom Alo, the Italian Ambassador said freedom of information is at the core of their values. The British High Commissioner said they joined the programme to demonstrate their support for media freedom as an important foundation pillar of democracy. She recalled the shocking events that happened in December and mentioned that as a member of the Media Freedom Coalition in Bangladesh, they strongly condemned the attacks carried out against journalists, editors, and media houses. "Such acts of violence and intimidation are unacceptable and strike at the heart of press freedom and the public's right to be informed," said the MFC in a statement on December 19. The MFC called for the safety of all media professionals to be ensured and for swift, impartial investigations so that those responsible are held to account. "Journalists must be able to carry out their work without fear," it said. The MFC said protecting them is essential to upholding the rule of law, democratic values, and an open, informed society.  US Embassy Spokesperson Poornima Rai said the United States is fully committed to freedom of expression and freedom of speech and they stand behind The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman said journalists need to remain committed to standing beside one another, rejecting division. He affirmed that they will continue to pursue the truth, and that the growing spirit of unity within the journalistic community will endure. The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam urged the new government to conduct an unhindered investigation into the twin attacks to uncover those who orchestrated these attacks from behind the scenes, those who instigated and those who implemented the attacks. He appreciated his colleagues for the spirit they demonstrated in the post-attacks period, describing it as unbelievable. He finds this as a symbol of devotion to journalism and courage.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi extended congratulations to newly appointed Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on his appointment. Wang Yi, who is also Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, expressed his intent to work with Foreign Minister Rahman to jointly implement the important understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries and advance the Bangladesh-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to new heights. Dr Jaishanker said he looks forward to working together with Foreign Minister Rahman to advance cooperation between Bangladesh and India for mutual progress and prosperity, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Minister served as Chief Adviser's High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and Priority Affairs and National Security Adviser during the interim government’s period. He joined BCS (Foreign Affairs) in 1979 after securing the first position in the first regular civil service examination after independence held in 1977. Khalilur Rahman served in various capacities in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York. In 1991, he joined the United Nations secretariat as a Special Adviser and served in different senior UN positions during the next 25 years. PM Tarique Rahman to address nation this evening In November 2024, he was appointed as the High Representative with the status and privileges of an Adviser. Khalilur Rahman stood first class first in MA examinations in Economics at Dhaka University in 1977. During 1980-83, he attended the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University and the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University and earned the degrees of MA in Law and Diplomacy and PhD in Economics.

Japan has welcomed the 13th Parliamentary Election of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, held on February 12, as credible and largely peaceful. In a statement, Japanese Press Secretary Kitamura Toshihiro said that an election observer mission from Japan, headed by former Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Watanabe Masato, conducted on-site monitoring of the election. The mission consisted of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh, as well as an external expert. “From Japan, an election observer mission headed by Mr. Watanabe Masato, former Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, consisting of officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh as well as an external expert, conducted monitoring activities on site,” the statement said. The statement added that, as far as Japan’s Election Observer Mission was able to inspect on site, the election process was conducted in accordance with established procedures. Japan welcomed the further promotion of Bangladesh’s efforts as a democratic nation and reaffirmed its commitment to continuing cooperation under the “Strategic Partnership” framework toward the development and prosperity of Bangladesh, as well as further development of bilateral relations.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a courtesy meeting with Bangladesh’s Leader of the Opposition and Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr Shafiqur Rahman and discussed issues of mutual interest. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the swearing-in ceremony of the new government on Tuesday. The Indian FS conveyed greetings to Dr Rahman on his new role and reaffirmed India’s enduring support to Bangladesh, underscoring the people-centric nature of the ties, according to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. Dr Shafiqur at the meeting highlighted the deep civilisational bonds shared by the two countries and expressed hope for stronger bilateral relations. The Foreign Secretary of India accompanied Speaker Om Birla at the oath-taking ceremony.

Global leaders on Tuesday attended the oath-taking ceremony of the new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, underscoring international interest in Bangladesh’s political transition. President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Prime Minister of Bhutan, Tshering Tobgay, Speaker of the Indian parliament, Om Birla, Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiative of Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Nepalese Foreign Minister, Bala Nanda Sharma, Sri Lankan Minister for Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Berris Ekinci ; and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Indo-Pacific) of UK Seema Malhotra represented their respective governments and countries in the ceremony. Following the ceremony, the visiting leaders paid separate courtesy calls on the new Prime Minister. The meetings were held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding ties and close friendship between Bangladesh and those countries. During the meetings, the leaders congratulated the Bangladesh Prime Minister for the huge electoral victory of his party and the democratic transition of Bangladesh. During the discussions, Bangladesh Prime Minister and the visiting leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to further strengthening and advancing bilateral relations based on mutual respect, shared interests, and the collective well-being of their peoples, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They discussed renewed bilateral engagement in trade and investment, connectivity, energy, education, healthcare, climate change, migration, people-to-people contacts, and regional collaboration. Visiting leaders from India, Nepal and Türkiye handed over congratulatory letters from their respective Heads of Government and invited the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to visit their countries at mutually convenient dates. Other leaders also extended similar invitations during the meetings. The Prime Minister of Bangladesh expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to all visiting dignitaries for attending the swearing-in ceremony and for their continued support and goodwill towards Bangladesh and her people.

President of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday met newly elected Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to work closely with Bangladesh to further strengthen the longstanding friendly relations between the two countries. The meeting was held at The Jatiya Sangsad following the oath-taking ceremony of the Prime Minister and the new government of Bangladesh. During the meeting, the President congratulated the Prime Minister and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on their victory in the 13th parliamentary election held on February 12. Dhaka, Delhi can work for each other's security, prosperity: Modi tells Tarique The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the President for attending the oath-taking ceremony. The two leaders discussed a broad range of areas to enhance cooperation, including trade and investment, health cooperation, environmental collaboration, higher education and improved air connectivity. This visit marks President Dr Muizzu’s first official visit to Bangladesh, said the President’s office. Diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and the Maldives were established on September 22, 1978.