United News of Bangladesh

Germany has made its highest-ever contribution to tackling climate change and supporting vulnerable countries like Bangladesh, according to the latest figures reported to the European Commission for 2024. Germany’s total contributions last year reached EUR 11.8 billion (USD 13.86 billion), marking a new record in financing global climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. Of the total amount, EUR 6.1 billion came directly from the federal budget, with nearly EUR 1.5 billion allocated for conserving natural ecosystems such as forests, peatlands, and oceans. Alongside renewable energy and other climate technologies, these conservation efforts form a vital part of global climate action. For the first time, Germany also mobilised more than EUR 1 billion in private sector funding for climate investment, a milestone in broadening financial participation in environmental initiatives. Bangladesh, identified as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, has already begun benefiting from this support and remains eligible for further assistance in the future. Germany’s Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Carsten Schneider reaffirmed his country’s commitment to international cooperation. More words than action, Salehuddin slams weak global support for climate funds “Germany maintains its spirit of solidarity and stands by its commitments to international cooperation. That is an essential basis for successful negotiations at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Belém,” Schneider said. “Climate action can only succeed if countries can be trusted to keep their promises. We are seeing encouraging figures in the mobilisation of private investment. Electricity from wind and solar power is becoming cheaper and therefore needs less support from the public purse. This means that in future we can direct more of our limited public funds towards climate change adaptation. We will be discussing that issue in Belém as well,” he added.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding a national election in the first half of February, stating that it would mark the first genuinely democratic vote in many years. “What happened in the last 16 years was a mockery of an election,” the Chief Adviser said, adding that he intends to return to his previous role following the vote. He also outlined government efforts to counter misinformation and highlighted the importance of international cooperation, noting that support from the UK would be particularly valuable in addressing this growing global challenge. The issues were discussed when UK Trade Envoy Rosie Winterton met him at the State Guest House Jamuna for a wide-ranging discussion on trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation. The two leaders exchanged views on key issues, including airport management, clean energy, and the Chief Adviser’s recent participation in the United Nations General Assembly in New York. They also discussed Bangladesh’s democratic transition. Envoy Winterton commended Bangladesh’s recent reforms in business regulations, customs, and revenue systems. She emphasised the potential for deeper collaboration in education, aviation and clean energy, and praised Professor Yunus’s leadership at the UN General Assembly, especially his initiative to include top political party leaders in the UNGA meetings. The two sides also discussed Bangladesh’s proposed purchase of HMS Enterprise, a research and survey vessel, and plan to purchase offshore patrol vessels from the United Kingdom. President of International Federation for Human Rights meets Prof Yunus The meeting was informed that the acquisition of the HMS Enterprise is expected to be completed by the end of this year . The meeting was attended by Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke, Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Director General of the East Europe and CIS Wing Md Mosharaf Hossain.

Family members and friends of Bangladeshi photographer and activist Shahidul Alam have demanded his immediate release, along with other humanitarian workers aboard the Conscience and Thousand Madleen vessels, while calling for an end to the occupation and genocide in Palestine. Dozens of prominent figures, including New Delhi-based writer Arundhati Roy, New York-based scholar Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, Cape Town-based playwright Mike van Graan, and Kathmandu-based journalist Kanak Mani Dixit, have signed a joint statement in this regard, according to a press release issued by Drik. “We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Bangladeshi photographer and activist Shahidul Alam, along with all 91 other media and medical professionals on board the Conscience who have been illegally kidnapped on international waters by the genocidal and apartheid state of Israel, along with the thousands of Palestinians who are being held in Israeli prisons without trial. The Conscience is among the latest ships in the Freedom Flotilla Coalition to sail across the Mediterranean Sea with the mission to break the illegal siege on Gaza that Israel has perpetuated for 18 years,” the statement reads. Press Secretary demands release of Shahidul Alam, others The vessel was carrying journalists and medics. “For nearly two years, the illegal Israel occupation has blocked international journalists from entering Gaza, creating one of the most dangerous press blackouts in modern history. During this time, hundreds of Palestinian journalists have been deliberately targeted and assassinated, while many more have been imprisoned or silenced. This boat is our challenge to that silence.” —Thousand Madleens to Gaza & Freedom Flotilla Coalition David Heap of the Canadian Boat to Gaza and Freedom Flotilla Coalition Steering Committee“Israel has no legal authority to detain international volunteers aboard these ships.” ‘I have been kidnapped by Israeli forces,’ says Shahidul Alam “This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the ICJ’s binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza. Our volunteers are not subject to Israeli jurisdiction and cannot be criminalized for delivering aid or challenging an illegal blockade. Their detention is arbitrary, unlawful, and must end immediately,” reads the statement. The statement also says Israel continues to act with total impunity, defying the International Court of Justice’s orders, disregarding international law protecting civilian navigation and ignoring worldwide demands to end the illegal siege and genocide. Prof Yunus expresses solidarity with Shahidul Alam and Gaza

Bangladesh has welcomed the ongoing dialogue between Hamas and Israel aimed at ending the war in Gaza. In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Bangladesh believes that diplomacy and dialogue are the only means to resolve any conflict and commends all stakeholders for their efforts in facilitating this important diplomatic initiative to end the tragic crisis. Bangladesh hopes that this process will lead to an immediate ceasefire, the restoration of humanitarian assistance and an end to the enormous suffering of the people of Gaza. “By ending the ongoing war in Gaza, this diplomatic process would pave the way for the realisation of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine,” read the statement. Bangladesh stands ready to contribute to keeping peace and the reconstruction process in Gaza, and reiterates its unwavering support for a two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine.

European Union Ambassador and Head of Delegation to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Thursday said that introducing an ‘Upper House’ in Bangladesh is entirely a domestic decision and the EU has no role or intention to influence it. “The question of whether Bangladesh will go for an Upper House is your business, not mine,” Miller said while speaking at a seminar titled ‘Proposed Upper House in the National Parliament: Can it ensure accountability of the majority?’ organised by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) in a city hotel. He said the European Union is ready to cooperate with Bangladesh through all kinds of political transitions and will stand by the country during its national elections. “However, the EU will not intervene in any of Bangladesh’s internal political or constitutional decisions,” he added. Miller assured that the EU will provide all possible assistance to ensure that the next national election in Bangladesh is conducted freely and fairly, meeting international standards. CPD calls for scrapping ‘Upper House’ plan, warns of deeper parliamentary chaos Despite a 14-month gap without a functioning parliament, the EU has maintained regular communication with parliamentary secretaries and the administration, he noted. “The EU wants to be a partner in Bangladesh’s journey from autocracy to democracy,” Miller said. He emphasised the need to strengthen parliamentary committees for a more effective legislature. “A strong and capable committee system is vital to make parliament more powerful,” he said. Miller also stressed open and evidence-based lawmaking, credible budget oversight, and data-driven research to make the parliament more dynamic and participatory. Ganatantra Mancha announces 140 candidates for election “The parliament must be more transparent about its decisions, laws, and information so that citizens know what’s being decided and can engage in the process,” he said, calling for the introduction of a citizens’ dashboard to help people track the work of their representatives. On the proposed Upper House, Miller said if implemented effectively, it could enhance accountability and create a new space for political decision-making. He also underscored the importance of strengthening connections between parliament, citizens, civil society and research organisations.

Israel must guarantee the safety and human rights of all individuals aboard the ‘Conscience’ and other vessels of the ‘Freedom Flotilla Coalition’ which were intercepted early Wednesday, a UN expert has said. “This attack against unarmed civilians on the high seas is yet another violation of international law by Israel,” said Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression. The boats were intercepted in international waters by an Israeli military helicopter, while the Israeli navy simultaneously boarded the vessels, according to a UN press release. Shahidul Alam determined as Sumud flotilla enters Palestinian time zone The interception reportedly took place in international waters, in violation of international law. Members of the Flotilla were detained and are being taken to Ashdod port. The Conscience, the flotilla’s flagship, carried 92 passengers, including journalists, health and care workers, and other human rights defenders, on a mission to break Israel’s siege and blockade of Gaza. Among them were 16 international journalists from 10 countries, working with more than a dozen media outlets. Khan expressed deep concern for the safety of the detained flotilla members, particularly after Global Sumud Flotilla activists reported mistreatment in Israeli custody. ‘I have been kidnapped by Israeli forces,’ says Shahidul Alam “Israel has an obligation to ensure the rights of all those being arbitrarily detained, including access to healthcare and their rights to be free from torture and ill-treatment. We call on Israel to grant them immediate access to their legal representatives and consular services,” the expert said. She went on to say, “These courageous journalists were sailing in solidarity with local Palestinian journalists who have borne the brunt of reporting at great danger to them. More than 252 Palestinian journalists have lost their lives, and many were deliberately targeted to stop their reporting of war crimes.” Khan said the international journalists on the Conscience aimed to challenge Israel’s unprecedented restrictions on free media access to Gaza. “The courageous efforts of the journalists in Gaza and on the Freedom Flotilla must not be in vain. The international community must demand from Israel immediate and free access of international media into the besieged enclave and the safety of all journalists there,” she said. Press Secretary demands release of Shahidul Alam, others “Those who were intercepted have the right to free expression and the freedom to express solidarity with the people of Palestine, and aid them. Israel has an obligation to respect those rights,” the expert emphasised. Among those aboard the flotilla was Bangladeshi activist and globally renowned photographer Shahidul Alam, who was sailing with the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. In a Facebook post, he shared that the flotilla he is aboard has been intercepted at sea and that he and his fellow travelers have been ‘kidnapped by the Occupation Forces of Israel’. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Wednesday demanded immediate release of Shahidul Alam. Prof Yunus expresses solidarity with Shahidul Alam and Gaza "Shahidul stands as a shining embodiment of the unyielding spirit of Bangladesh. May Allah protect and keep Shahidul and the rest of the team safe," he said.

The United Nations has congratulated Bangladesh on its election as president of the 43rd UNESCO General Conference. This milestone underscores Bangladesh’s growing leadership in the fields of education, culture, the sciences (both natural and social), communication, and information on the global stage. Bangladesh Elected President of UNESCO General Conference Khondker M Talha, Ambassador of Bangladesh to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, has been elected President of UNESCO’s 43rd General Conference, marking a historic achievement in the country’s 53-year membership with the organisation.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, said on Wednesday that the spirit of the Palestinian people is unbreakable. She said, despite facing injustice and falsehood, Palestinians continue to fight for truth and justice, and also expressed hope that in the near future, Palestine will be free and no one will be held captive. She made the remarks at a classical music program held at the historic Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka, marking the 163rd birth anniversary of Ustad Alauddin Khan. Rizwana Hasan added that movements for the environment, child rights, and women’s rights are all connected by a common human value. She noted that Swedish youth climate activist Greta Thunberg’s support for Palestine shows this connection. She also said that when an environmental activist is arrested, it sparks global protests. Similarly, all acts of aggression will be defeated, and the resilient people of Palestine will achieve freedom. She urged everyone to contribute to the cause of Palestine’s liberation in their own way. Rizwana dismisses ‘safe exit’ speculations, vows lifelong commitment to Bangladesh Advisers Adilur Rahman Khan and Mostafa Sarwar Faruki also graced the program, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people striving for freedom. The event was hosted by Ekushey Padak-winning cultural activist, actor, and director Afzal Hossain. Diplomats, artists, and cultural enthusiasts attended the program.    

Saudi Arabia's visiting business delegation has expressed strong interest in investment in Bangladesh's food, beverage and real estate sectors as the three-day Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Business Summit 2025 ended on Wednesday. The Saudi Arabia Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (SABCCI) confirmed the development at a press conference held in the capital. Speaking at the press conference, SABCCI President Ashraful Haq Chowdhury said the Saudi delegation visited various companies to assess the Bangladesh market for potential investments. Riyadh is seeking diversified investment areas with priority in  food and beverage, IT, healthcare, and energy sectors, he said. Dr. Khalid Al Harbi, a professor and healthcare sector specialist from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Tayyibah University who was part of the delegation, said they see significant opportunities for enhancing cooperation and trade in various fields between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh. "Many Saudi businessmen work with Bangladeshi labourers and are interested in leveraging the work ethic and innovative strategies of the Bangladeshi people to contribute to the production sectors in both Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh,"  Al Harbi said. He also ephasised that Saudi Arabia has a specific need for skilled manpower from Bangladesh particularly in the healthcare sector especially in nursing services. The Saudi businesses also thanked Bangladeshi nationals for their continued contribution to the Saudi labour market and the development of the Kingdom. SABCCI Vice President Ahmed Yusuf Walid and Pran-RFL Group Director Uzma Chowdhury also spoke. The three-day business summit, which began on Monday at the Hotel Sheraton in Banani, concluded Wednesday. Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia sign first official labour recruitment deal The inaugural session featured Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur as the chief guest and included presentations on Saudi business potential and opportunities in different sectors in Bangladesh. The summit also marked the official launching ceremony of the Saudi Arabia -Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (SABCCI) where Foreign Affairs Advisor Tawhid Hossain was present as the chief guest. The visiting 20-member Saudi delegation was led by Sheikh Omar Abdulhafeez Amirbaksh, owner of the Majd Al Umran Group, which has business interests in hospitality and real estate, among other sectors. The delegation also included Naji Abdullah, a director of Al Esayi Group, and Professor Mohammad Asif Salam of King Abdulaziz University, who also owns an IT company.  

Bangladesh has been elected President of the 43rd General Conference of UNESCO, marking a historic milestone in the country’s 53-year membership with the organisation. During the vote held on 7 at the 222nd Session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris, Bangladesh candidate Ambassador Khondker M. Talha secured the presidency with a 30–27 victory over Japan. Initially, four countries—Bangladesh, Japan, India, and the Republic of Korea—had contested the position. However, India and the Republic of Korea withdrew their candidatures in September. This is the first time Bangladesh has been elected to this apex position within UNESCO. Ambassador Khondker M. Talha, Bangladesh’s Permanent Delegate to the UNESCO and Ambassador to France, Monaco, and Côte d’Ivoire, will assume the presidency. He will succeed Ambassador Simona Mirela Miculescu of Romania at the upcoming General Conference, to be held later this month in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Education Adviser Dr. CR Abrar, and Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki expressed their appreciation to the Executive Board for electing Bangladesh to this prestigious position. Professor Yunus called it “a landmark achievement” and thanked the Education and Cultural Advisers, as well as the Permanent Mission, for their leadership in driving Bangladesh’s successful campaign. "This is a proud moment for Bangladesh," the Chief Adviser said. “Very enthusiastic congratulations to Amb Talha and his team for bringing this international prestige to the nation,” said the Chief Adviser. Education Adviser Dr. CR Abrar noted, “This election to UNESCO’s highest office will bring global attention to Bangladesh’s contributions in arts, culture, and education. It is a rare honour.” UNDP, UNESCO assess Bangladesh's media landscape with Swiss support Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki added, “Bangladesh’s active participation in recent UNESCO sessions has already drawn praise. This new role offers a powerful platform to project the vibrancy of our artistic, cultural, and heritage landscape on the world stage.” Appointed as Bangladesh’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO in 2021, Ambassador Talha expressed deep gratitude to the Executive Board members for their confidence in Bangladesh’s leadership. “This is a historic achievement for our country,” he stated, pledging to work tirelessly to uphold UNESCO’s mandate during this critical time for global multilateralism.