United News of Bangladesh

A trade negotiating team of Japan  will visit Dhaka from May 19-23 for the first round of Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) negotiations. Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud expressed hope that an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would be concluded to get Japanese financial concessions by 2026 when Bangladesh will be graduated from LDC status. He thanked Japan for sending the trade negotiating team for the negotiations on the proposed EPA. Scholars underscore Bangladesh’s commitment to One China principle, call for stronger trade relations Japanese Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Hosaka Yasushi, who met Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday, expressed his optimism to ensure the steady development of bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh under the “Strategic Partnership” and work together to realize a “Free and Open Indo Pacific (FOIP). Hosaka mentioned that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Japan in April last year was a cornerstone of future bilateral relations between Bangladesh and japan. He expressed his gratitude to the government of Bangladesh for hosting the 30th anniversary of International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD30) Global Dialogue. During his meeting with Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday, Hasan showed his appreciation for Japan's assistance in the development of infrastructure in Bangladesh and expressed his desire to further develop the bilateral relations, particularly to attract more Japanese investment in Bangladesh including Matarbari and Chittagong areas. The Foreign Minister expressed hope that an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would be concluded to get Japanese financial concessions by 2026 when Bangladesh will be graduated from LDC status. He thanked Japan for sending the trade negotiating team for EPA which will visit Dhaka from May 19-23 for the first round of Japan-Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) negotiations. Hasan sought Japan’s assistance in helping Bangladesh develop its ship recycling industry in a safe and sustainable manner. He sought necessary funds through JICA in this regard to expedite the process. The Vice Minister informed that Japan would shortly send a technical expert team in this regard. The Japanese Vice Minister referred to Bangladesh as a country of growing population and booming economy. They both expressed satisfaction at the close cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan in different multilateral fora and hoped that both the countries will continue close cooperation for international peace and security, and sustainable development.

Professor Shahab Enam Khan, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Center for Indo-Pacific Affairs, emphasized the need for a “better, transparent, and more accountable” trading regime between Bangladesh and China. Speaking on May 15 at a symposium hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, he argued that such a relationship could serve as a regional model for good governance. “Let this relationship be a role model of uniqueness and prosperity,” Professor Khan stated during the event. He highlighted the potential for Bangladesh-China trade and investment ties, adhering to global norms and standards, to bolster Bangladesh’s impressive growth and positively influence the broader region. Khan, who also serves as a professor in the Department of International Relations at Jahangirnagar University, called for a comprehensive view of Bangladesh’s foreign policy towards China, involving global powers and their varied interests. He referenced Bangladesh’s commitment to the One China policy, underscoring its alignment with values upheld during the 1971 Liberation War under the leadership of the father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The discussion also covered the Rohingya crisis and the broader stability of the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of regional stability. The symposium, themed “Reflecting on the Original Aspiration of Establishing Diplomatic Relations, Moving Forward Together,” featured Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen as the chief guest. The Ambassador expressed his firm conviction that Bangladeshi friends, together with the international community, will continue upholding the One China principle. He also hoped that the international community will continue to understand and support the Chinese people’s just cause of opposing “Taiwan’s independence” and striving for national reunification. Launching of CVC in Dhaka will significantly enhance efficiency of visa issuance: Ambassador Yao Wen “We are one China, and Taiwan is part of China. This is an indisputable fact supported by history and the law. Taiwan has never been a state; its status as part of China is unalterable,” the Ambassador declared. Economist Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir also spoke at the event, calling for greater connectivity and the establishment of Chinese cultural centres in Bangladesh to foster deeper people-to-people relations. The symposium was attended by former diplomats and experts who discussed various aspects of Bangladesh-China relations, including Munshi Faiz Ahmed, Shabbir Ahmad Chowdhury, and Mahbub Uz Zaman.  

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu extended his country's best wishes to the Bangladesh team ahead of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States and the West Indies. "We wish the Bangladesh Men's National Team good luck," he told reporters after making his cricketing debut Wednesday, in a friendly cricket match with the Bangladesh Women's cricket team, where he and Ambassador Peter Haas wore Bangladesh shirts. He also wished the best in their future endeavours for the Bangladesh Women's cricket team. Earlier on the second day of his visit to Bangladesh, Lu described his visit as an effort to "rebuild the trust" between the people of the two countries. "Last year, there was a lot of tension between US and Bangladesh," he told reporters in a brief statement, frankly noting that they want to look forward - the hallmark of US pragmatism. Lu had a courtesy meeting with Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud at his office and discussed ways to deepen the "forward-looking" bilateral relationship between two countries. The United States said they stand with Bangladesh in building a "prosperous, secure, and democratic" future. Both the Men's and Women's teams were supposed to join the assistant secretary and Ambassador but the Men could not join as they were flying today for their World Cup journey. Bashundhara Group Vice-Chairman Safwan Sobhan welcomed Donald Lu and Peter Haas when they reached Bashundhara Sporting Club Complex. "I would like to thank Bangladesh Cricket Board and Bashundhara Group," Lu said. "I never played cricket before but we tried. It's really a lot of fun. And we are super excited to see Women's World Cup in Bangladesh," he said. The International Cricket Council (ICC) already announced the fixtures for the ninth ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, taking place from 3 to 20 October in Bangladesh, an event that promises to inspire and connect with a new generation of fans across the globe. Ten teams will play 23 matches, over 18 action-packed days, at two venues in Bangladesh, the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka and the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet as the world’s best battle it out for the ultimate prize in T20 cricket. Former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar said the US side wanted to interact with them. "They are quite happy to interact. They know cricket is very popular in Bangladesh." The special event marks the Bangladesh cricket team's participation in the inaugural T20 World Cup in the US. The 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts on 2 June at 01:30 BST with hosts United States facing Canada in Texas. Bangladesh's campaign begins on June 7, against Sri Lanka in Dallas, followed by a match against South Africa in New York on June 10. The team will then travel to the West Indies for their remaining two first-round matches. Prior to the tournament, Bangladesh will play a practice match against India in New York on June 1 and a three-match T20I-Series against the hosts, USA, in Houston. This series will also feature the World Cup Squad.

Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Muhammad Faruk Khan MP, has stated that the government is working to ensure the sustainable growth of Bangladesh's aviation industry. Speaking today at a meeting at the ministry's office with Water Van Wers, Vice President of AirBus International and members of the Executive Committee of AirBus Group, along with Marie Masdupuy, French Ambassador to Bangladesh, and Sarah Cook, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, the minister emphasized this. He further stated, "Under the directives of the Honorable Prime Minister, we are working to transform Bangladesh into a major aviation hub. Alongside the development of all airports nationwide, work is underway on the expansion of the fleet of national airlines, human resource development, and enhancement of security measures." The minister added, "To expand the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, we have initiated the process of purchasing new aircraft. As part of this, Airbus has submitted their proposal. A high-capacity evaluation committee has been formed for assessing the proposal. After receiving the evaluation report of the committee, further steps will be taken. Boeing has also submitted their proposal, which will also be processed accordingly." He said, "The aviation industry means not only airplanes or airports but also skilled human resources. We are emphasizing on creating skilled human resources and providing them with regular and appropriate training. In this regard, Bangladesh already has an Aviation University established. Besides, we have some institutions providing training in aviation. We want to enhance the capabilities of these educational institutions so that all training related to the aviation industry can be provided in Bangladesh in the future." Regarding AirBus, the Vice President stated, "The economic progress of Bangladesh is admirable. Despite the global crisis, Bangladesh's GDP growth deserves praise. The aviation industry of Bangladesh is a promising sector. Airbus aims to have a long-term relationship with Bangladesh." He further said, "Besides providing various types of technical assistance, AirBus is eager to assist Bangladesh in the development of all types of workers related to the aviation industry and in enhancing the skills of those involved." After that, the country director of Thalas International appointed in Bangladesh, Binoit Nalion, met the minister. The Minister stated at this time, "Bangladesh is working on the assurance of Smart Airport Management. Our Air Traffic Control, Instrument Landing System and other sides have been improved in the past few years, and further improvement is underway." At this time, Thales's country director expressed interest in providing assistance to Bangladesh in improving the skills of those involved in Air Traffic Management, ILS System Upgrading, and Smart Airport Management.

Hosaka Yasushi, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Iwama Kiminori, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, visited Dhaka Community Medical College and Hospital to attend the handover ceremony of the “The Project for Procurement of Medical Radiology Equipment at Dhaka Community Medical College Hospital in Dhaka District” provided to “Dhaka Community Hospital Trust (DCHT)” by the Government of Japan through the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGHSP). The project is to provide continuous and efficient medical services by providing the necessary equipment such as a Digital X-Ray, which Japan made, and Dental X-Ray. “Human security is about securing people's lives, livelihoods and dignity. This is the core concept of Japan’s development cooperation. In order to realize human security, health is an essential part. Japan has committed to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) globally. This is to ensure that all people can receive the quality health service they need at an affordable cost. This project is in line with such idea”, said Parliamentary Vice-Minister H.E. Mr. Hosaka. Japan has supported 217 NGO projects through its Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGHSP) since 1989 with a view to enhancing economic and social human security at the grassroots levels. The total sum of these GGHSP grants extended to NGOs in Bangladesh to date amounts approximately to $17.2 million.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has expressed his firm conviction that Bangladeshi friends, together with the international community, will continue upholding the One China principle. He also hoped that the international community will continue to understand and support the Chinese people’s just cause of opposing “Taiwan’s independence” and striving for national reunification. "We are one China, and Taiwan is part of China. This is an indisputable fact supported by history and the law. Taiwan has never been a state; its status as part of China is unalterable," said the envoy. Ambassador Yao was speaking at a symposium on “Reflecting on the Original Aspiration of Establishing Diplomatic Relations, Moving Forward Together” at the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday evening. Former diplomats Shabbir Ahmad Chowdhury, Mahbub Uz Zaman and Munshi Faiz Ahmed, among others, spoke at the event. The envoy said China cares about and cherishes the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait more than anyone else does. However, “Taiwan independence” and cross-Strait peace and stability are as “irreconcilable as fire and water.” “There is no space for the Chinese government to compromise with those ‘Taiwan independence’ separatists who have betrayed their ancestors by denying their identity as Chinese,” he said. Instead, he said, the Mainland will adhere to the 1992 Consensus that embodies the One China principle, work with relevant political parties, groups and people from various sectors in Taiwan to boost cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, enhance cross-Strait integrated development, jointly promote Chinese culture, and advance the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations for the cause of national reunification. Economist Dr Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir highlighted the importance of greater connectivity, noting that China is growing fast. He wanted to see China opening up cultural centres across Bangladesh to enhance people to people relations, going beyond cooperation in infrastructure, education and health. Shahab Enam Khan of Jahangirnagar University's Department of International Relations explained why Bangladesh pursues One China policy. We envision Center for China Studies as a bridge connecting Bangladesh, China, S Asia and world: Ambassador Yao Wen He highlighted the growing collaboration and cooperation with mutual respect. He also talked about the Rohingya crisis and highlighted the importance of stability in the region. Shahab also touched upon the Indo-Pacific issues. In January 2024, the leadership and legislature elections of China’s Taiwan region were held. “It is obvious that the results of the elections cannot change the landscape and development trend of cross-Strait relations, nor can it alter the shared aspiration of Chinese compatriots across the Taiwan Strait to forge closer ties. The inevitable trend of China’s reunification will not be impeded," said the Ambassador. China firmly supports Bangladesh in opposing external interference: Ambassador Yao Wen He said it must be pointed out that out of the strategic consideration of “using Taiwan to contain China”, the United States has played the “Taiwan card” in the multilateral fields and issued a series of reports distorting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, attacking the One China principle, advocating “Taiwan’s status is undetermined”, and openly supporting Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. "They are clouding the One China principle with uncertainty and compromising its integrity. They are contriving ‘official’ exchanges with Taiwan, increasing arms sales, and colluding in military provocation," Ambassador Yao said. Bangladesh's youth makes it 'vigorous' in Chinese eyes: Amb. Yao Wen To help Taiwan expand its “international space,” he said, they are inducing other countries to interfere in Taiwan affairs, and concocting Taiwan-related bills that infringe upon the sovereignty of China. "They are creating confusion about what is black and white, right and wrong. This is a hegemonic act that blatantly interferes in China’s internal affairs,a flagrant defiance of relevant UN resolutions, an unpopular and perverse act, and a serious disruption to regional peace and stability. China firmly rejects this," said the envoy. He said Taiwan belongs to all the Chinese people, including the 23 million Taiwan compatriots. "The Chinese people are firm in their resolve and have a deep commitment to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation, and this resolve and commitment will frustrate any attempt to divide the country," he said. “Attempts to reject reunification and split the country are doomed, because they will founder against the history and culture of the Chinese nation as well as the resolve and commitment of more than 1.4 billion Chinese people, the ambassador said.

Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday expressed his optimism that Japan would continue to support the long-term plan for development of Southern Chattogram under the BIG-B initiative to enhance connectivity in the region and beyond. He reiterated the deep confidence of the people of Bangladesh on the Japanese goods and services. Hasan emphasised on more Japanese investments in Bangladesh, particularly in the Special Economic Zones in Aaraihazar and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar at Mirsarai in Chattogram. Japan’s Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs HOSAKA Yasushi met with Foreign Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and discussed the issues. US wants to rebuild trust between Dhaka and Washington leaving behind tension: Lu Hasan thanked the Vice Minister for representing the government of Japan in the ICPD30 Global Dialogue in Dhaka. He recalled the unwavering Japanese support for the cause of our independence in 1971 as well as the historic official visit of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Japan in October 1973. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would like to strengthen the existing strategic partnership between Bangladesh and Japan to further height and engagements, he appraised. Hasan expressed satisfaction at the good progress of JICA-assisted mega-infrastructure projects, including Matarbari deep seaport, Matarbari Coal Fired Power Plant, Dhaka Metro Rail, etc. He thanked the government of Japan for the continued efforts towards a durable solution for the safe, sustainable, and dignified return of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (Rohingyas) to the Rakhine State of Myanmar for peace, stability, and security in the region. Hasan expressed hope that an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would be concluded to get Japanese financial concession by 2026 when Bangladesh will be graduated from LDC status. Bangladesh underscores importance of advancing inter-generational equity: Foreign Minister He thanked Japan for sending the Trade Negotiating Team for EPA which will visit Dhaka from 19-23 May 2024 for the 1st round of Japan-Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Negotiations. Hasan sought Japan’s assistance in helping Bangladesh develop its ship recycling industry in a safe and sustainable manner. He sought necessary funds through JICA in this regard to expedite the process. The Vice Minister informed that Japan would shortly send a technical expert team in this regard. The Japanese Vice Minister referred Bangladesh as a country of growing population and booming economy. Both the Vice Minister and the FM expressed satisfaction at the close cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan in different multilateral fora and hoped that both the countries will continue close cooperation for international peace and security, and sustainable development.

The United States wants to help Bangladesh fight climate change, and Bangladesh in turn wants to deepen its relations with the US through this fight, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said on Wednesday. The bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the United States will be strengthened in the coming days based on the initiatives related to the environment and climate, he said. The minister was speaking after a meeting with a 7-member delegation led by US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu at the secretariat on Wednesday. The environment minister said the US plans to offer real-time satellite data for South Asia for free which will be able to monitor the effects of climate change such as natural disasters, floods, pollution, and sea level rise. “We sought financial assistance for capacity building, smart agriculture and advancement of green and climate technologies,” he said. “A bilateral working group will be established for these purposes. Further discussions will be held on project implementation to ensure the welfare of marginalized people,” he added.

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu on Wednesday described his Bangladesh visit as an effort to "rebuild the trust" between the people of the two countries. "Last year, there were a lot of tension between US and Bangladesh," he told reporters in a brief statement, noting that they want to look forward. Lu had a courtesy meeting with Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud at his office and discussed ways to deepen the "forward-looking" bilateral relationship between two countries. The United States said they stand with Bangladesh in building a "prosperous, secure, and democratic" future. "Our discussion with the Foreign Minister today reaffirmed our shared commitment to cultivating economic growth, bolstering the workforce, improving security cooperation, addressing the climate crisis and reinforcing our values of respecting democracy and human rights," said the US side. Talking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lu said they want to find ways to strengthen the relationship. "So I spoke about working the hard issues. We have lots of hard issues -- RAB sanction, labour reforms, we have human rights, business climate reforms," Lu said. In order to work on hard issues, Donald Lu said, they want to build up the cooperation on positive issues. "We are talking about new investments, more Bangladeshi students who want to study in the US and how to work on clean energy," he said. The US also wants to support Bangladesh in fighting corruption, hold the officials accountable, ensure transparency and help widen tax net. Lu said the US worked very hard to promote free, fair and non-violent elections which caused tension. "It is common in our relationship." In a separate briefing, Foreign Minister Hasan said Lu came to Bangladesh to improve the relations. On GSP issue, the foreign minister said the US wants to help Bangladesh get it back when they reintroduce the programme. He said the US also wants to help Bangladesh strengthen its reserve. They also talked about modernisation of the taxation system, Rohingya repatriation issue and genocide in Palestine. "He told me that they also want to see peace in Gaza. They are hopeful and agreed that peace needs to be established there," Hasan said. The Foreign Minister regretted the continued loss of innocent lives in Gaza and emphasized the urgency of reaching a ceasefire.  Lu highlighted the ongoing US efforts in this regard and hoped for a positive outcome soon. Assistant Secretary Lu reaffirmed the United States' commitment to further the partnership with Bangladesh and take forward the new chapter of relationship. They discussed a wide range of topics of shared interest, including economic cooperation, trade, investment, education, environment and climate change, security, Rohingya humanitarian response, women empowerment, labour reform, and aviation.  Senior Foreign Ministry officials and US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas, among others, were present. Assistant Secretary Lu held a meeting with Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury and discussed bilateral issues with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin on Wednesday.Having spent much of his time in exploring the taste of Fuchka in Dhaka, visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu has got engaged with social media influencers, apparently going for people instead of politics. His long informal conversation with PM's adviser Salman F Rahman over dinner, inclusion of a young climate activist in civil society small group discussion and his plans to meet cricketers ahead of the T20 World Cup demonstrate the scope and thrust of his visit differ greatly from previous ones - before the elections in Bangladesh. "We were thrilled to join the engaging discussions with the influential social media personalities and dedicated volunteers from Bangladesh. Whether you're into diplomacy, social impact, or just looking for some inspiration, these episodes of "Cha with Peter + Don"  are a must-watch," the US Embassy in Dhaka shared on its social media platforms. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen recently said the pre-election scenario and the current scenario are totally different.  "A new government has been formed. A stable government is carrying forward its activities engaging with various countries. All countries think of engaging with Bangladesh,"  Momen said. Talking to reporters at his residence on Tuesday night, Salman said the United States expressed willingness to expand the existing relations with Bangladesh on key fronts. "We want to rebuild the trust," Salman quoted Lu as saying during their discussion over dinner at his residence.  "That's the most important thing. We also reciprocated saying that we also want that," the adviser added. The two sides did not raise the "kind of misunderstanding" that apparently happened before the national election. The US Embassy in Dhaka has shared a brief video appreciating the taste of Bangladeshi fuchka.  Lu together with US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas were seen in the video. "Bangladeshi fuchka is the best," they were heard saying while tasting fuchka together. "East or West, Fuchka is the best! Guess what's cooking! We teamed up with celebrity chef Rahima Sultana to create a fusion of flavors with Fuchka and Jhalmuri! Are you ready for this epic culinary adventure? Enjoy the sneak peak and stay tuned for the full video!," read a message tagged with the tiny video. As part of sports diplomacy, Lu got engaged with Bangladeshi cricket stars on Wednesday afternoon. Donald Lu, accompanied by US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas, met Bangladesh Cricket Board and players at Bashundhara Sports Complex, an informed official told UNB. They met the cricketers and board officials to extend their best wishes ahead of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup to be held in the United States and the West Indies. The special event marks the Bangladesh cricket team's participation in the inaugural T20 World Cup in the US. The 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts on 2 June at 01:30 BST with hosts United States facing Canada in Texas. Bangladesh's campaign begins on June 7, against Sri Lanka in Dallas, followed by a match against South Africa in New York on June 10. With his discussion with the civil society members, Lu laid emphasis on climate adaptation and encouraged youth to come forward to help the people who are at risk in Bangladesh's coastal areas. During a discussion with the civil society members, Lu cited  examples of Bangladesh and the Maldives which might get affected due to sea-levl rise. "He highlighted the importance of climate adaptation and protection of people in the coastal areas. He urged the youth to come forward for the protection of people living in the coastal regions," Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator, YouthNet for Climate Justice, told UNB after the meeting. The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, rights activist Md Nur Khan Liton, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Centre for Women Workers Solidarity Kalpona Akter, Rani Yan Yan and Mahmuda Akhter were also present. The civil society members raised Palestine issue and genocide committed by Israeli forces, said a source. Politics in the post-election period, human rights, labour rights and workers fair wages also came up for discussion. US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas also attended the discussion held at his residence. Lu arrived here on Tuesday to "strengthen bilateral cooperation" and to demonstrate US support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. His visit was aimed at deepening Bangladesh-US cooperation, including deepening the economic ties in ways that the two countries can collaborate further to address climate issues, said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Vedant Patel.

Having spent much of his time in exploring the taste of Fuchka in Dhaka, visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu has got engaged with social media influencers, apparently going for people instead of politics. His long informal conversation with PM's adviser Salman F Rahman over dinner, inclusion of a young climate activist in civil society small group discussion and his plans to meet cricketers ahead of the T20 World Cup demonstrate the scope and thrust of his visit differ greatly from previous ones - before the elections in Bangladesh. "We were thrilled to join the engaging discussions with the influential social media personalities and dedicated volunteers from Bangladesh. Whether you're into diplomacy, social impact, or just looking for some inspiration, these episodes of 'Cha with Peter + Don' are a must-watch," the US Embassy in Dhaka shared on its social media platforms. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen recently said the pre-election scenario and the current scenario are totally different. "A new government has been formed. A stable government is carrying forward its activities engaging with various countries. All countries think of engaging with Bangladesh,"  Momen said. Talking to reporters at his residence on Tuesday night, Salman said the United States expressed willingness to expand the existing relations with Bangladesh on key fronts. "We want to rebuild the trust," Salman quoted Lu as saying during their discussion over dinner at his residence. "That's the most important thing. We also reciprocated saying that we also want that," the adviser added. The two sides did not raise the "kind of misunderstanding" that apparently happened before the national election. US Department of State, Eastern Bank to work jointly on climate change adaptation The US Embassy in Dhaka has shared a brief video appreciating the taste of Bangladeshi fuchka.  Lu together with US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas were seen in the video. "Bangladeshi fuchka is the best," they were heard saying while tasting fuchka together. "East or West, Fuchka is the best! Guess what's cooking! We teamed up with celebrity chef Rahima Sultana to create a fusion of flavors with Fuchka and Jhalmuri! Are you ready for this epic culinary adventure? Enjoy the sneak peak and stay tuned for the full video!," read a message tagged with the tiny video. As part of sports diplomacy, Lu will get engaged with Bangladeshi cricket stars on Wednesday afternoon. Donald Lu, accompanied by US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas, will meet Bangladesh Cricket Board and players at Bashundhara Sports Complex, an informed official told UNB. They will meet the cricketers and board officials to extend their best wishes ahead of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup to be held in the United States and the West Indies. Star cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, MP, among others, will be there. The special event marks the Bangladesh cricket team's participation in the inaugural T20 World Cup in the US. The 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts on 2 June at 01:30 BST with hosts United States facing Canada in Texas. Bangladesh's campaign begins on June 7, against Sri Lanka in Dallas, followed by a match against South Africa in New York on June 10. With his discussion with the civil society members, Lu laid emphasis on climate adaptation and encouraged youth to come forward to help the people who are at risk in Bangladesh's coastal areas. During a discussion with the civil society members, Lu cited  examples of Bangladesh and the Maldives which might get affected due to sea-levl rise. "He highlighted the importance of climate adaptation and protection of people in the coastal areas. He urged the youth to come forward for the protection of people living in the coastal regions," Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator, YouthNet for Climate Justice, told UNB after the meeting. The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, rights activist Md Nur Khan Liton, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Centre for Women Workers Solidarity Kalpona Akter, Rani Yan Yan and Mahmuda Akhter were also present. BNP conspiring against country by joining hands with international Israeli lobby: Hasan Mahmud The civil society members raised Palestine issue and genocide committed by Israeli forces, said a source. Politics in the post-election period, human rights, labour rights and workers fair wages also came up for discussion. US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas also attended the discussion held at his residence. Lu arrived here on Tuesday (May 14, 2024) to "strengthen bilateral cooperation" and to demonstrate US support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. He is visiting Bangladesh to talk about deepening Bangladesh-US cooperation, including deepening the economic ties in ways that the two countries can collaborate further to address climate issues, said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Vedant Patel.