United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday urged the World Trade Organization (WTO) to provide its full support to ensure a smooth transition for Bangladesh as it prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. Prof Yunus raised the issue during a meeting with WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York. He requested DG WTO's role in the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference for a meaningful outcome to assist countries on the path to LDC graduation, ensuring they are not adversely affected by the potential withdrawal of trade concessions or preferential trade access in developed markets. DG WTO assured of her all-out support. Bangladesh is expected to graduate from LDC in late 2026. Their discussion also touched on long-anticipated WTO reforms and current global trade challenges, amid growing concerns over protectionism and a possible retreat from globalization. In response, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that despite widespread concerns, global trade remains resilient, with approximately 75 percent of world trade still governed by WTO rules. The WTO chief sought Bangladesh’s support in advancing critical reforms within the Geneva-based organization. "The WTO must reform. I need your active engagement. I want your leadership here," she said. CA Yunus expresses sorrow over death of firefighter in Tongi Professor Yunus echoed the call for comprehensive WTO reforms, stating the organization must adapt to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving global trade environment. "It is time to take up the challenge," he said, adding that Bangladesh is prepared to raise its voice in support of meaningful change. Also present at the meeting were Energy and Transport Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser Lutfey Siddiqi, and SDG Coordinator and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed.  

The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday celebrated the 10th National Ayurveda Day 2025, highlighting the shared heritage of traditional medicine between India and Bangladesh. Themed “Ayurveda for People, Ayurveda for Planet,” this year’s observance underscored Ayurveda’s role in ensuring both individual well-being and ecological balance. Delivering the welcome address, IGCC Director Ann Mary George said India and Bangladesh share historic, linguistic, and cultural ties, with Ayurveda being practiced in Bangladesh for centuries. Alongside Unani, Yoga, and Homoeopathy, she noted, Ayurveda remains integral to Bangladesh’s health policy. Ann Mary George pointed out that similar geo-climatic conditions allow both countries to share a wealth of medicinal plants, creating opportunities for joint research and innovation. She also mentioned that Bangladeshi students frequently travel to India for studies in traditional medicine, further deepening cultural and academic exchanges. In his keynote address, Dr Sarik Hasan Khan, Vice Principal of the Government Unani and Ayurvedic Medical College in Dhaka, highlighted the importance of Ayurveda and Unani systems in preventive healthcare. Indian High Commission celebrates Buddha Purnima in Dhaka The programme featured a short film titled “Journey of Ayurveda,” a yoga demonstration by IGCC instructor Shahanaz Parvin Shikha, and an interactive session led by Farhana Sultana Karim, founder of Yoga Bliss in Dhaka. The event also showcased Ayurveda’s enduring relevance in promoting holistic health and sustainable living, while reinforcing the spirit of friendship and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday attended the inaugural session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNBGA) at the UN Headquarters in New York. He was accompanied by Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul. Security measures for Prof Yunus, his entourage reinforced in NY

The interim government of Bangladesh on Tuesday expressed deep regret over Monday’s incident in New York, where BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and NCP leaders Akhter Hossen and Tasnim Jara were subjected to a politically motivated assault. The attack was allegedly carried out by affiliates and supporters of the ousted autocrat Sheikh Hasina. “We reiterate our unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law, both at home and internationally. Acts of political violence and intimidation—whether within Bangladesh or beyond its borders—will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate legal and diplomatic responses,” said the government in a statement. As a result of this incident, security measures for the Chief Adviser and all members of the official delegation have been significantly reinforced, the statement added. This reprehensible act is a stark and painful reminder of the toxic and violent political culture that flourished under Hasina’s regime, a legacy the interim government is firmly committed to dismantling in order to build a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Bangladesh, it said. In anticipation of potential security risks during the visit of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and accompanying political leaders, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had coordinated a series of precautionary security measures. Prof Yunus’ 2nd day at UNGA packed with back-to-back engagements Upon arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, the delegation was initially directed through a designated VVIP gate and boarded into a specially secured transportation unit.

The UK Government’s revenue authority,Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Board of Revenue (NBR) of Bangladesh on Tuesday. Through this agreement, the UK Government aims to support Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to modernise its customs administration. The MoU outlines a framework for technical assistance and capacity building, delivered by HMRC experts to help NBR implement key customs reforms, said a press release. This includes support for the World Trade Organisation Trade Facilitation Agreement, development of risk management systems, and expansion of the recently launched Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. These will help streamline border processes and build trust with international trading partners. Under the MoU, HMRC will provide: In-person and remote training sessions for NBR staff, technical advice on customs reform and trade facilitation, peer-to-peer learning and short-term staff exchanges, Support for developing customs risk profiling and information sharing systems.  British High Commission Dhaka’s Deputy Development Director Martin Dawson said,” This agreement reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s economic development. Through our technical assistance programmes, we are helping strengthen institutions, improve trade systems, and support mutual economic growth.” “As Bangladesh graduates from Least Developed Country status, efficient customs systems will play a vital role in unlocking growth economic.” National Board of Revenue Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan said,”This agreement is a valuable step in our efforts to modernise our customs and improve trade facilitation. We welcome the UK Government’s technical support and look forward to working together to strengthen our systems and drive economic growth.” This support is part of a broader programme of technical assistance on economic development that the UK Government provides to Bangladesh. This includes support on trade policy, investment climate reform and financial sector development – all aimed at helping Bangladesh build a more resilient and inclusive economy.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus will attend at least 10 events on Tuesday, the second day of his visit, including the inaugural session of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He will begin the day by attending a welcome reception hosted by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Prof Yunus will attend the inaugural session of the 80th UNGA from 9am to 10am. Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed will accompany the Chief Adviser at the inaugural session. In the evening (7 pm to 9 pm New York time), Prof Yunus will join a reception hosted by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. In addition to these engagements, Prof Yunus is scheduled to meet with the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), President of the World Bank and Queen of the Netherlands. These meetings highlight the significance of his visit and his active participation in global discussions. On Monday, Queen Mathilde of Belgium met the Chief Adviser Prof Yunus on the sidelines of an event at the UN headquarters. Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown also called on Prof Yunus. International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva met the Chief Adviser as well at the UN headquarters. Prof Yunus arrived in New York on Monday afternoon. Music, memories and messages of peace filled the UN General Assembly Hall on Monday as the world body commemorated 80 years since its founding. The ceremony was held as world leaders arrived in New York for the annual debate in the historic chamber, which was darkened and bathed in blue light for the milestone event. Assembly President Annalena Baerbock recalled how the UN was founded in the aftermath of two world wars and “the unspeakable horrors of the Holocaust”, at a time when 72 territories were still under colonial rule. Economy must move beyond narrow wealth accumulation: Prof Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday said they must move towards an economy that places human well-being, social justice and environmental stewardship above the narrow accumulation of wealth. "This is not a utopian ideal. It is a necessary evolution. And at the heart of this new economy lies social business," he said, adding that social business is not a niche concept, it is a fundamental principle that business can and must exist to make a difference, not just a profit. Prof Yunus made the remarks while delivering the keynote speech at UN high-level event on "Social Business, Youth and Technology" at UN Headquarters in New York. It began humbly, with a one-dollar loan but today it has grown into a global movement, he mentioned. "From healthcare and renewable energy to education and even sports social businesses are showing that it is possible to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges while remaining economically sustainable," Prof Yunus said. UNGA: Prof Yunus, political leaders in New York  He said they are living proof that another world is within reach—a world where commerce serves humanity, where growth includes everyone and where profit is measured not only in financial returns but in lives improved, communities strengthened and our planet healed. "Our current civilization is on a self-destructive path—one defined by endless extraction, consumption and accumulation. We are endangering the very planet that sustains us," he said. To change course, Prof Yunus said they must build a new civilization—one motivated not by greed but by a shared commitment to solve human and planetary challenges. In this new world, he said, wealth must be shared, not concentrated. "Power held in too few hands weakens the whole of society." And business must be redefined, not as a vehicle for personal profit, but as an engine for social good, Prof Yunus said. Bangladesh fully prepared for fair, peaceful election in February: Prof Yunus tells US "This is the promise of social business. And this is how we will truly achieve the Sustainable Development Goals," he said. But this new civilization will not be built by the same minds that created the old one, Prof Yunus said, adding that it will be designed and driven by young people—the architects of the future. "Unlike previous generations, shaped by outdated systems, today’s youth see what could be, not just what is. Their imagination is limitless. And as I often say: 'Where imagination leads, innovation follows.' If we can imagine it, it can happen. If we don’t, it never will," he said. Prof Yunus said, "That’s why we must encourage young people to channel their creativity into social business—where real, sustainable solutions to climate change, unemployment, poverty and inequality are born." At this pivotal moment, Prof Yunus, called on the youth of the world to lead, not tomorrow, but today. "Dream boldly, but act deliberately. Change doesn’t have to start big." Brink of a New Technological Era Prof Yunus said they stand at the brink of a new technological era—one defined by artificial intelligence, big data, renewable energy and other transformative innovations. These tools have the power to reshape industries, societies and the very fabric of human progress, he said. "But their promise is paired with profound responsibility. Will these technologies become a blessing for humanity—or a source of harm? The answer is not yet written," Prof Yunus said. He said it will be determined by the choices they make today and by the values they instill in tomorrow’s leaders—especially their youth. "It is they who must step forward and guide these tools toward the common good. When directed responsibly, technologies like AI, blockchain and the Internet of Things can dramatically accelerate our progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals," he said. Coupled with the principles of social business—where profit is reinvested into purpose—they can revolutionize sectors from digital health and education to renewable energy and sports, he said. Imagine AI-powered diagnostics reaching remote villages, blockchain ensuring transparency in aid distribution or IoT optimizing clean energy use in underserved communities, Prof Yunus said. "This is not science fiction—it is the future we can build. But we must also confront the real risks: privacy breaches, algorithmic bias, cybersecurity threats, and the potential to deepen inequality," he said, adding that technology is a tool—and like any tool, its impact depends on the hands that wield it. "That’s why we need more than technical innovation—we need ethical innovation. We need leaders who ask not only “Can we do it?” but “Should we do it?”. We need systems—like social business—that align technological advancement with social justice, equity, and environmental stewardship." The future of technology must be shaped not by ambition alone, but by conscience, Prof Yunus said. "Not by competition, but by collaboration. Not for the few, but for all. Let us ensure that this new technological era becomes an era of empathy, equity, and shared progress," he said. Prof Yunus speaks of a world of  "three zeros": Zero Net Carbon Emissions, Zero Wealth Concentration to End Poverty and Zero Unemployment by unleashing creativity in all.  "I also emphasise on the Zero Waste and have been a part of the UN Secretary General’s 'zero waste initiative'. This is not a dream. It is already becoming reality," he said. That’s why, Prof Yunus said, they are encouraging young people everywhere to form 3-Zero Clubs—spaces where individuals become 3-Zero people. A 3-Zero person commits to living sustainably, minimizing waste and embracing social entrepreneurship. "They strive to contribute nothing to global warming, nothing to wealth inequality, and nothing to unemployment," Prof Yunus said. As more join this movement, these clubs grow into 3-Zero families, 3-Zero villages, 3-Zero cities—and one day, a 3-Zero world. "It starts with a single step. But together, those steps can change the world. I have always believed this forum is more than a place for speeches—it is a place for inspiration," Prof Yunus said. "In these turbulent times, true transformation lies in our unity. If we join hands—harnessing the power of social business, the energy of youth and the potential of technology—we can untangle even the most complex global crises," he said. Architects of New Wave "Let us become the architects of a new wave—a world built on justice, sustainability and hope. A world where our collective dreams ignite a new dawn for all of humanity," he said. Today, more than ever, that future stands at a crossroads, Prof Yunus  said. "Wildfires of climate change scorch the earth. The chasm of inequality grows deeper. Conflicts rage and the struggle for justice and peace tests our very humanity. These crises are not isolated. They are intertwined—threads of a fragile tapestry, each pulling at the other, shaping the whole of our existence," he said. What they need urgently is renewed multilateral diplomacy, deeper international cooperation, and collective commitment to sustainable development, Prof Yunus said. Many countries, including Bangladesh, are preparing to graduate from LDC status amid severe challenges. For Bangladesh, this includes hosting 1.3 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas, managing repeated climate shocks, and navigating global economic turbulence. "In such a context, reducing UN budgets or shrinking official development assistance would be counterproductive. Instead, the world must redouble efforts to expand international support, provide technical assistance, and ensure a just transition for nations facing heightened vulnerability," he said. The persistent shadow of global conflict continues to threaten peace and stability worldwide. These are not isolated tragedies—they ripple across borders, disrupting economies, endangering food security and shattering human lives. "In the face of such interconnected crises, we cannot resort to old solutions. What we need now—urgently—is renewed multilateral diplomacy and deeper international cooperation," Prof Yunus said. "These conflicts do more than immediate harm; they also undermine our shared vision for a sustainable future," he said. As an advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals, Prof Yunus has long believed that these goals cannot be fully realized within our current global system—a system still dominated by the relentless pursuit of profit over people. "Under these conditions, the path to the SDGs can indeed appear bleak," he said. "But I am not here to dwell on the gloom. I am here to propose a shift—a transformation of the system itself," Prof Yunus mentioned.  

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus arrived at John F Kennedy International Airport on Monday afternoon (NY time) as he began his official visit with a series of meetings at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).  A commercial flight of Emirates Airlines, carrying the Chief Adviser and his small entourage, landed at the airport at 3pm (NY time). Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Tareq Md Ariful Islam received the Chief Adviser at the airport.  UNGA: More political leaders to join as Prof Yunus leaves for NY Monday He is scheduled to attend a number of events later today (Monday). BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP leader Humayun Kabir, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Syeed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, first senior joint member secretary of National Citizen Party Dr Tasnim Jara and NCP leader Akhter Hossen are accompanying the Chief Adviser as part of the Bangladesh delegation to the UNGA at the invitation of the Chief Adviser. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mohammad Nakibur Rahman will join the delegation from the USA, a political source told UNB. Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Energy Adviser M Fouzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Principal Secretary to Chief Adviser M Siraz Uddin Miah, Principal Coordinator (SDGs Affairs) Lamiya Morshed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam are among the members of Bangladesh delegation, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB. Prof Yunus is set to hold a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the UNGA. Upon arrival, he is likely to meet family members of deceased police officer of NYPD Didarul Islam.  On Monday evening (NY time), Prof Yunus will attend a high-level event on 'Social Business, Youth and Technology' which will be organised by Global Committee on Social Business for Sustainable Development Goals.  He will also attend annual SDG dinner and award ceremony.  At the General Debate (Sept 23-27 & 29), the annual meeting of heads of state and government in the beginning of the General Assembly session, world leaders will make statements outlining their positions and priorities in the context of complex and interconnected global challenges, officials said. The Chief Adviser will deliver his speech at the UNGA on September 26, said Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. On September 30, the UN will, for the first time, host a high-level conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar. The Chief Adviser will return home on October 2.Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder on Thursday said inclusion of the political leaders in Bangladesh’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this year is a welcome step, as it provides an opportunity to showcase the national unity before the world, regardless of political differences. “It also offers our leaders a chance to bridge gaps and build understanding while spending time together,” he said. By including the political leaders in the official Bangladesh delegation, the Chief Adviser has once again demonstrated his wisdom and statesmanship, Azad said, adding, “Let us hope this visit proves to be as successful as anticipated.” With an elected government expected to take office in February, this year’s UNGA comes at a critical moment, Azad said. In a world unsettled by multiple conflicts, he thinks, the forum can serve as a valuable platform for Bangladesh’s political leadership to strengthen mutual understanding. “The plenary session on the Rohingya crisis following the UNGA makes the physical presence of our leaders all the more crucial for ensuring policy continuity,” Azad said. Besides, he said, meetings with NRBs and business leaders could provide valuable insights for the country’s governance in the near future.  

Indian Border Security Force (BSF) handed over  six Bangladeshis  to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) at Maheshpur upazila of Jhenaidah on Monday. According to a press note from 58 BGB, a Bangladeshi woman and a man were handed over around 5 pm at the Polianpur border through a flag meeting near border pillar 60/31-R, organized by the company commander level of the 194 BSF Battalion. 3 held in Jhenidah while entering Bangladesh from India

Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said that Saudi Arabia occupies a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people. He said this while speaking at a programme  hosted by the Saudi Embassy in Bangladesh at Hotel Sheraton’s Grand Ballroom in Banani, Dhaka, on the occasion of Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day. The adviser said this is not only because it is the holy land of Islam but also because it serves as a second home for over 3.2 million Bangladeshi expatriate workers. Citing that the contribution of Bangladeshi workers is an important pillar of Bangladesh’s economic progress, the adviser said, “It strengthens the friendship between the two countries.” Chowdhury highlighted the centuries-old ties between the Arab world and Bengal, based on trade, culture and mutual trust. “This historic brotherhood laid the foundation for our modern diplomatic relations. Today, as we celebrate 50 years of formal diplomatic relations, we are proud that our bond is rooted in respect, trust, and Islamic heritage,” he said. He praised the visionary leadership of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and said Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 inspires not only its own people but also promotes regional progress and innovation. KSA revises fees for visa, Iqama renewals He lauded Saudi leadership saying that the Crown Prince strengthens Muslim unity and enhances Saudi Arabia’s voice internationally. The programme was attended by Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah Jafar H. Bin Abiyah, diplomats, high-ranking government officials, business leaders, and other invited guests.