United News of Bangladesh

Chargée d’Affaires of the Embassy of Switzerland Corinne Henchoz Pignani has reaffirmed that Switzerland will continue to support Bangladesh in addressing the Rohingya crisis, in line with international law and guided by humanitarian principles. Henchoz made the remark while attending the ‘Stakeholders' Dialogue on the Rohingya Situation: Takeaway to the High-Level Conference’ in Cox’s Bazar on Monday. Rohingya problem cannot be solved keeping key actor excluded: Khalilur Rahman Switzerland also called on all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under International Humanitarian Law, to ensure rapid, full and unimpeded humanitarian access and break the cycle of impunity. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus joined the conference as the chief guest.

Bangladesh and South Korea held the 4th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Seoul on Tuesday and agreed to deepen ties and explore strategic partnership between the two countries. The Bangladesh delegation was led by Ambassador Dr Md Nazrul Islam, Secretary (Bilateral–East and West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Korean delegation was headed by Park Yoonjoo, 1st Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Korea. Both countries stressed the need for high-level visits at the Head of State or government level, stating that such exchanges at a mutually convenient time would be crucial to upgrading Bangladesh–South Korea relations to a strategic partnership. The consultations were held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, marked by constructive and forward-looking discussions covering the full spectrum of bilateral relations. Issues discussed included political and economic cooperation, trade and investment, human resources development under the Employment Permit System (EPS), infrastructure development, relocation of Korean electronics and semiconductor production plants, energy cooperation, security and the situation of the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (Rohingyas). Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Logistics sector stakeholders focus on skill dev to face future challenges The delegations reviewed progress since the 3rd round of consultations held in March 2022 in Dhaka, and identified new avenues of cooperation, particularly in science and technology, artificial intelligence, energy transition, fisheries, biotechnology, climate change, agricultural mechanization and modernisation of marine ports and shipyards.  

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Monday categorically said it is high time to take pragmatic steps and transform their legal and moral commitments into concrete actions to stop the Israeli military aggression and genocide against the people of Palestine. Regarding the recent indication of recognition to the Palestinian statehood from a number of Western countries, Hossain said this could be the least they could do to acknowledge the crimes against humanity perpetrated by the occupying forces of Israel. He made the remarks during his intervention at the extraordinary meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Jeddah, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Reiterating Bangladesh’s unwavering support to the people of Palestine and the latter’s just struggle to attain self-determination and freedom, Adviser Hossain called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza and credible and irreversible path to the two-State formula following the 1967 borders. He expressed any unconditional support from the government and people of Bangladesh which might be tabled by OIC or the Muslim Ummah aimed at the emancipation of the brotherly people of Palestine. On the sidelines of the Extra-ordinary Meeting, Hossain met Foreign Minister of the Gambia Sering Modou Njie. Bangladesh has been a great support to Palestine: Ambassador They discussed the current status of the ICJ case against Myanmar on the Rohingyas and also decided to hold next foreign office consultation in Dhaka at a convenient time. The Gambian Foreign Minister informed that he plans to visit the Rohingya camp soon. Additional Foreign Secretary M Forhadul Islam and Bangladesh Permanent Representative to the OIC MJH Jabed accompanied the Foreign Affairs Adviser during the ministerial and meetings on the sidelines.

National Security Adviser (NSA) Dr Khalilur Rahman has stressed the need for collective action among neighbouring countries to curb trans-boundary organised crimes originating from conflict-hit Myanmar. Briefing reporters after the concluding session of ‘Stakeholders' Dialogue’ in the beach town of Cox’s Bazar on Monday night, Dr Rahman shed light on the six key recommendations made during the discussion in the thematic sessions, including ⁠addressing insecurity. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Director General (Public Diplomacy) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Shah Asif Rahman were present at the media briefing. This protracted crisis in Rakhine now poses a direct threat to regional stability, Dr Rahman said. "Hence the participants called for more proactive roles from neighboring countries to stabilise Rakhine through concrete actions under the auspices of ASEAN, UN and concerned partners," he mentioned. Highlighting the amplification of ⁠Rohingya voices, Khalilur Rahman said Rohingya representatives made an emphatic and clear call for their dignified return with safety and dignity, restoration of their rights, restitution of property, freedom of movement and accountability for genocidal atrocities. On accountability and justice front, Dr Khalilur said the discussants urged for full support of all relevant stakeholders to international fact-finding mechanisms and International Courts such as IIMM, ICJ and ICC. Rohingya Repatriation: ‘Dialogue key, rights must be respected’ "The international community must ensure that Myanmar authorities and the Arakan Army comply with the ICJ's provisional measures which are legally binding," he said. While Bangladesh reaffirms its commitment to the Rohingya cause, it stressed on its severe resource constraints. Bangladesh insists that the international community must share the burden equitably. On⁠ ⁠sustainable roadmap for repatriation, Dr Khalilur said the Rohingya crisis ensued in Myanmar and hence the solution lies in Myanmar. Prof Yunus places 7-point roadmap for Rohingya repatriation He said authorities in Rakhine and Nay Pyi Taw must take necessary actions to create a conducive environment for safe, dignified and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their ancestral homeland. Dr Khalilur said an urgent appeal for continued resource mobilisation was made which can be materialised through enhanced commitment from the donor communities, diversification of donors and equitable sharing of burden to avert extremely dire situations. On ⁠confidence-building measures, Dr Rahman said a call was made to initiate confidence building measures involving relevant stakeholders as an essential step to stop the crisis. He said Myanmar and Rakhine authorities must dismantle internal displacement camps in Sittwe and northern Rakhine, which some of the speakers termed as concentration camps. "At the same time, they must allow the people of the camps to return to their homes," Dr Khalilur said. Despite various discriminatory laws, Rohingyas exercised their voting rights in 2011, not long ago. Dr Rahman said it is an imperative for Myanmar to restore that right and allow them to exercise their voting rights. In the process, he said, continued marginalisation has to be reversed and rights and human dignity of the Rohingyas as the most persecuted community must be restored. Dr Khalilur said they have heard participants’ deliberations in thematic sessions, which were structured around humanitarian assistance, confidence-building measures, accountability, and a roadmap for a sustainable resolution to the crisis. The primary purpose of the event was to garner Rohingya voices and gather stakeholders' inputs for the upcoming UN High-Level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya and other Minorities in Myanmar. US lauds Bangladesh, other countries’ continued support to Rohingyas In the morning, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus spoke as the chief who particularly shared the 7-point action plan. "A most impartial takeaway is the clear and unmistakable yearning and determination of the Rohingyas to return to Myanmar in dignity and safety in a sustainable manner," Dr Khalilur said. He said a critical concern that has been proposed is the apprehended decline in funding in the coming days, which threatens provision of very basic needs of the Rohingyas in the camps. The dialogue identified systematic persecution, discriminatory laws particularly, the 1982 Citizenship Law, as one of the many root causes of the crisis. Discussants confirmed that gross human rights violations continue in Rakhine State irrespective of the shifting landscape in political dynamics. They unequivocally confirmed that both the Myanmar Armed Forces and the Arakan Army are engaged in indiscriminate attacks, arson, and mass killings, rapes, conscripting and using forced labour against the Rohingyas. The immense pressure on Bangladesh, particularly on the host communities and the environment in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char, was pronounced in a robust way by both the panelists and the participants from the floor, said Dr Khalilur. Panelists expressed profuse thanks to Bangladesh, its people and the host community for their generosity.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has said that Bangladesh and China have made significant progress together over the past five decades—enhancing trade, connectivity, and most importantly, people-to-people relations. Cultural diplomacy has played a central role in shaping this enduring partnership, she said. The Adviser made the remarks while inaugurating the “Radiant Stars: Lingjiatan Culture Photo Exhibition from Anhui, China” at the Bangladesh National Museum on Monday. Rizwana Hasan said through exchanges in art, literature, music, archaeology, and museums, we have shared not just artifacts but values, visions, and worldviews. She described the exhibition as a dialogue between civilizations and a celebration of friendship. Marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic ties and the “Year of People-to-People Exchanges,” she emphasized that the relationship between the two countries has always gone beyond trade and infrastructure. She said that the culture has been a constant, shaping our architecture, Buddhist heritage, and artistic expressions. “In turn, Bangladeshi crafts, music, and literature have long been admired in China. This exhibition continues that legacy,” she added. Referring to Lingjiatan’s jade artifacts, the Adviser highlighted how they reflect harmony with nature and spiritual balance. Drawing parallels with Bangladesh’s ancient sites such as Mahasthangarh, Wari-Bateshwar, and Paharpur, she said the exhibition resonates deeply with Bangladesh’s civilizational journey and offers wisdom for addressing present-day climate challenges. She also welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Bangladesh National Museum and Anhui Museum to promote joint exhibitions, expertise sharing, and academic collaboration. Rizwana Hasan praised Anhui’s donation of bronze replicas and the “Four Treasures of the Study” to the Museum’s permanent China Corner, calling it a lasting symbol of goodwill. Sun Yong, vice governor of Anhui Province, China; Md. Mofidur Rahman, secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs; Altaf Hossain Choudhury, president of Bangladesh-China Cultural Economic & Mass Communication Centre; and Li Shaopeng, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, along with curators, were also present. Later, Rizwana Hasan visited the exhibition and Chinese corner in the National Museum. The exhibition is now open to the public from August 25 to September 25 at the Bangladesh National Museum.

United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations Raouf Mazou on Monday said a political solution to the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar must be found and the United Nations (UN), led by the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy, continues to work in support of these efforts. "In order to start recreating conditions for the return of refugees, dialogue with all parties is a critical first step. Rights must be respected and, as the Secretary-General said, civilians must be protected," he said, while speaking at the ‘Stakeholders’ Dialogue’ on the Rohingya situation. Mazou, however, said much more needs to be done by a multiplicity of actors, including regional bodies and neighboring states, for peace to return to Myanmar and more specifically the Rakhine State. "The consultations we are having today, facilitated by the High Representative, are therefore essential to chart a way forward - in which the wellbeing of Rohingya refugees, particularly women, children and youths, should remain central," he said.  Country stable enough; ready for elections: Prof Yunus It prepares for the high-level conference on the situation of Rohingya and other Muslim minorities planned for September 30, 2025 during the United Nations General Assembly high-level segment. "The voluntary return in conditions of safety and dignity remains the most desirable solution and the responsibility to create the conditions for it to happen lies squarely on Myanmar," Mazou said. Eight long years have passed since 700,000 Rohingya were compelled to flee Myanmar to Bangladesh, pushed by unspeakable violence and human rights violations in Myanmar's Rakhine state. They are presently over 1.3 million in Bangladesh. In a world where the right of asylum is sometimes questioned, Mazou said Bangladesh's response has been remarkable, with local populations welcoming those in desperate need despite the difficult circumstances in which they sometimes find themselves. The international community has played its role, providing hundreds of millions of dollars to respond to the humanitarian needs of refugees in Cox's Bazar and in Bhasan Char. Prof Yunus places 7-point roadmap for Rohingya repatriation "However, as the situation has prolonged, and the number of forcibly displaced has continued to increase around the world, reaching 120 million by the end of 2024, it has become increasingly difficult to mobilise the resources required," said Mazou. As of today, the funding of the Joint Response Plan stands at approximately 60%. "While the continued provision of food assistance could be secured until December the availability of LPG beyond September is uncertain. Services such as education and health have already been reduced," Mazou said. He said it is essential that, as Bangladesh continues to provide a global public good, the required funding is made available in the spirit of burden-sharing, reaffirmed by the Global Compact on Refugees. “Merely providing humanitarian assistance neither constitutes a solution nor ensures protection," Mazou said. There are an estimated 3.5 million internally displaced persons in Myanmar, and in the past 18 months alone, 150,000 more Rohingya have fled targeted violence to Bangladesh. "A comprehensive response continues to be required to meet individual needs in a manner that helps prepare for the eventual return because long-term dependency on humanitarian assistance does not prepare Rohingya refugees for the part they ought to play in the reconstruction of their country once they return," Mazou said. "We need more innovative approaches that accommodate the need for refugees to retain their ability to play an active role in the reconstruction of their country while not creating conditions that would make the eventual return elusive," he said. Eight years on, Rohingyas’ presence leaves locals feeling exiled at home Mazou said their presence in Cox's Bazar today is a clear indication of our determination to be by the side of the refugees, represented in this meeting - as well as the government and people of Bangladesh and be part of the solution. A situation involving over one million displaced persons cannot be left to morph into a regional crisis affecting all countries in the region, he said. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus spoke at the event as the chief guest. High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Faruk E Azam, Bir Protik, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, among others, also spoke.  

Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in Asia Pacific (APAC) have fundamentally shifted their approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to new research from Salesforce, moving from cautious spenders to strategic investors who are betting on AI not just for cost-cutting, but as a crucial engine for long-term revenue growth. A striking 63% of APAC CFOs reported having a conservative AI strategy in 2020. Fast forward to today, and that number has plummeted to a mere 3%. This rapid transformation highlights a widespread recognition among financial leaders that AI is no longer just an emerging technology but a crucial tool for enhancing efficiency, optimizing operations, and, critically, driving long-term growth. CFOs' fundamental rethinking of tech investment ROI, according to the data, explains this transformation. Half (50%) of APAC CFOs say AI agents — digital labor capable of performing tasks autonomously — are changing how they evaluate ROI, measuring the success of technology investments beyond traditional metrics to encompass a broader range of business outcomes. “The introduction of digital labor isn’t just a technical upgrade — it represents a decisive and strategic shift for CFOs,” said Robin Washington, President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer at Salesforce. “With AI agents, we’re not merely transforming business models; we’re fundamentally reshaping the entire scope of the CFO function. This demands a new mindset as we expand beyond financial stewards to also become architects of agentic enterprise value." Last year, in fact, 65% of global CFOs faced pressure to accelerate tech investment ROI. Today, they recognize the value of AI isn’t just about short-term cost-cutting, but also long-term business outcomes like revenue generation, productivity gains and improved decision-making. –  things AI agents are uniquely suited to improve. “The ROI of older technology often depends on immediate, measurable results,” said one CFO survey respondent, “while AI’s returns may accrue over the long term through an ongoing process and new business models.” Five years ago, almost two-thirds (63%) of CFOs in APAC adhered to a conservative AI strategy and a third (33%) did so until just two years ago. Now, just 3% of APAC CFOs maintain a conservative AI strategy, and a third have officially adopted an aggressive approach. APAC CFOs are dedicating nearly a quarter of their AI budget to agents, and it is fundamentally reshaping their spending perspectives. On average, APAC CFOs report dedicating 23% of their current, total AI budget on AI agents. 60% of APAC CFOs say AI agents/digital labor are critical, and will continue to be critical, to compete in the current economic environment. 62% of APAC CFOs say AI agents/digital labor is changing their perspective on how their business spends money. Almost a third (32%) say AI requires them to have a bolder mindset around technology investments. 75% of APAC CFOs believe that AI agents will not only cut costs, but drive revenue. CFOs implementing AI agents expect agents will increase company revenue by almost 20%. 77% say AI agents will transform their business model & 58% think AI agents will take on more strategic work than routine tasks. APAC CFOs Embrace AI As a Strategic Partner 83% of APAC CFOs are increasingly using AI to make business decisions. The top three tasks APAC CFOs are delegating to AI agents are risk assessments (85%), financial forecasting (65%), and profitability assessments (58%). Agentic AI is changing how APAC CFOs evaluate ROI — moving beyond traditional metrics to encompass a wider range of business outcomes. 50% of APAC CFOs say AI agents change how they evaluate ROI. For CFOs, redefining ROI requires a mindset shift from valuing short-term to long-term success. The two main concerns keeping APAC CFOs up at night regarding their AI strategy are security or privacy threats (68%) and the long time to ROI (62%).

The United States has appreciated Bangladesh’s efforts in continuing to provide shelter to displaced Rohingya, as well as to other countries in the region for hosting refugees from Myanmar. "We commend the government of Bangladesh for continuing to provide shelter to displaced Rohingya, as well as to other countries in the region for hosting refugees from Burma (Myanmar)," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the US Department of State Thomas Tommy Pigott in a press statement. The United States expressed its support for the people of Myanmar including Rohingya and other ethnic groups who have been subjected to violence and displacement.  

Malaysian Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir has rejected as false and baseless a claim that 10,000 Bangladeshi students in Malaysia would be granted a “graduate pass” to allow them to work in the country. He clarified that during the recent visit of Bangladesh’s interim government Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, no agreement was signed that would commit Malaysia to provide such work opportunities for Bangladeshi students, reports Malaysian newspaper the Star. Zambry also urged Kedah’s industry and investment, higher education, science, technology and innovation committee chairman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah to exercise greater caution before making public remarks especially on matters concerning higher education. "Based solely on a newspaper report in Bangladesh, he has made the allegation that I have agreed to consider providing ‘graduate passes’ to 10,000 Bangladeshi students in Malaysia to enable them to work here. The allegation is completely untrue and inaccurate,” he said in a statement on Saturday. Bangladeshi workers to enjoy similar social benefits, protection like Malaysians: Shafiqul Alam He further described Haim Hilman’s claim that Malaysians were worried because the government had supposedly agreed to the arrangement as highly irresponsible. "As someone with an academic background, he should have made statements based on true, accurate and authentic facts, not speculation or spreading information carelessly. Academic principles demand information that has integrity, accuracy and truth,” he added. Zambry warned that Haim Hilman should not create misleading perceptions by sharing inaccurate details. "The culture of producing 'content' to be made viral on social media with incorrect facts must be stopped immediately," he added. Prof Yunus returns home from Malaysia Earlier, Haim Hilman had posted a two-minute and 19-second video on TikTok claiming that 10,000 Bangladeshi students would be given employment opportunities in Malaysia.

Diplomatic Missions in Dhaka on Monday stressed the importance of ensuring meaningful engagement and inclusive representation of Rohingyas to make empowered decisions and enable them to live safe, purposeful and dignified lives when they are in Bangladesh. "After eight years, the international community stands steadfast with the Rohingya and Bangladesh, committed to seeking long-term durable solutions to the crisis and addressing its root causes," the Missions said in a joint statement. High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh, Australian High Commission, British High Commission, Embassy of Denmark in Bangladesh, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka, Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, Ambasciata d'Italia a Dhaka, Embassy of France in Bangladesh, Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, Embassy of Finland in New Delhi and Suomen suurlähetystö New Delhi issued the statement titled ‘Rohingya crisis - eight years on’. They reflect on the Myanmar military’s actions causing the mass displacement of Rohingya. Today, over 1.3 million Rohingya remain displaced in Bangladesh and new arrivals continue to seek refuge in the camps. Read: Prof Yunus places 7-point roadmap for Rohingya repatriation "We acknowledge the resilience of Rohingya in the face of their ongoing hardship and displacement, amid the current deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in Rakhine State," the joint statement said. The Missions expressed their deep appreciation for the ongoing generosity of the interim government and the people of Bangladesh, who are providing shelter and safety to the Rohingya, including new arrivals, hosting them and supporting the provision of life-saving humanitarian assistance. Rohingyas Want to Return The international community remains committed to finding pathways towards repatriation, the statement said, adding, "However, cross-border displacement continues, many Rohingya in Rakhine remain internally displaced, and conditions in Myanmar do not currently allow for their voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return." These conditions can only be met by addressing the root causes of their displacement, which requires a peaceful and stable Myanmar. "We therefore recognise that a timeline for the return of the Rohingya cannot yet be established and stress to all actors the urgent need to support efforts to create a conducive environment," the statement added. They condemned the escalating violence and human rights abuses committed by the military regime and other armed actors and reiterate our call for an immediate end to all acts of violence and for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access. Read more: Prof Yunus joins 'Stakeholders’ Dialogue' on Rohingya crisis in Cox’s Bazar They also reiterated their call for the military regime to release those unjustly detained. "We remain firmly committed to supporting international efforts for accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and other grave human rights abuses." The Missions said they will continue to work with the government of Bangladesh and the international community to focus attention on the situation in Myanmar and the related humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh, including at the upcoming High-Level Conference in September 2025. They advocated for more durable solutions for Rohingya refugees, such as enhancing self-reliance for Rohingya, especially in light of reduced humanitarian funding to the Rohingya response, while also preparing and equipping refugees for their eventual return to Myanmar. "We will also continue to support Bangladeshi communities in Cox’s Bazar who are generously hosting the refugee population," the statement said.