United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the historic and landslide victory of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), noting that the Bangladesh government looks forward to working closely with her administration to strengthen Dhaka-Tokyo partnership further. “The government of Bangladesh looks forward to working closely with your administration to further strengthen our partnership, deepen economic and technological cooperation, and advance our shared priorities for mutual benefit,” he said in a message to Takaichi. Takaichi’s governing party secured a two-thirds supermajority in parliamentary elections. Feb-12 polls must be fair, with no room for bias: Prof Yunus The landslide victory was due, in large part, to the extraordinary popularity of Japan’s first female prime minister, and allowed her to pursue a significant conservative shift in Japan’s security, immigration and other policies. “On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh, and on my own behalf, I extend my warmest congratulations on the historic and landslide victory of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) under your leadership in the election to the House of Representatives held on 8 February 2026,” Prof Yunus said. He said this decisive mandate reflects the strong confidence and trust placed in her leadership and vision by the people of Japan. “I am confident that, under your continued stewardship, Japan will further advance stability, prosperity, and constructive engagement both regionally and globally,” Prof Yunus said. He said Bangladesh attaches highest importance to its long-standing and trusted partnership with Japan. “We remain deeply appreciative of Japan's consistent support for Bangladesh's development, including our cooperation in quality infrastructure and connectivity, which has made a lasting contribution to our people and economy,” said the Chief Adviser. Prof Yunus conveyed her best wishes for her good health and success, and for the continued peace, progress, and well-being of the people of Japan. Spain’s deadly train crash saddens Prof Yunus

Commonwealth Observer Group Chairperson Nana Akufo-Addo has underscored the importance of youth participation, noting that Bangladesh has a predominantly youthful population, with a significant proportion of citizens under the age of 35. “Their engagement in the electoral process is vital to the country’s democratic future and will serve as an inspiration to young people across the Commonwealth who stand in solidarity” he said on Sunday. The Commonwealth Observer Group to Bangladesh has commenced its observation of pre-poll arrangements and preparations for the forthcoming national election and referendum, reaffirming the Commonwealth’s solidarity with the people of Bangladesh at this important moment in the country’s democratic journey. The Group arrived in Bangladesh on February 4 and will remain in the country until February 18. As independent observers, the Group will assess the pre-election environment, polling day, and the post-election period. Members will deploy to selected divisions on February 10 to observe the opening of polls, voting, closing, counting, and the management of results. Nana Akufo-Addo said he was honoured to have been invited by the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, to serve as Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group for the elections and referendum. Releasing his arrival statement in Dhaka, he noted that the elections are taking place at a significant time, following a period of political contestation, public debate on governance and institutional reform, and the continued aspirations of citizens for transparent, inclusive, and credible democratic processes. “Democracy remains one of the most important pillars of the Commonwealth, enshrined in its Charter, a fundamental global value rooted in the principle that people have the right to freely express their will and determine their own political, economic, social, and cultural systems," he said. Commonwealth, EU to deploy large observer teams for Bangladesh election "I enjoin all stakeholders to uphold these important values for the benefit and prosperity of the people of Bangladesh.” Since the Group’s arrival, members have met with representatives of the media, civil society, youth and women’s groups, political parties, and other stakeholders. The team will continue its engagements, including meetings with the Bangladesh Electoral Commission, ahead of election day. The Commonwealth Observer Group comprises the Chairperson and 12 other eminent persons drawn from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific. Members bring diverse professional backgrounds, including politics, civil society, election management, diplomacy, and law. The Group will issue its interim statement on its preliminary findings on 14 February.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday sought more investment in the areas of education, science and technology. Adviser Hossain was speaking at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) and SEACO Universities Network (SUN) held at the State Guest House, Padma. "One of the shortcomings of the Muslim World is its backwardness in the areas of education, science and technology, despite possessing immense human potential and a rich intellectual heritage. It must invest more to transform its education system and bring meaningful change in the lives of the people," he said. Dhaka, Islamabad foreign affairs chiefs hold telephone talks

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen met Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Sunday and discussed issues of bilateral relations. Ambassador Christensen described the meeting with Adviser Hossain as ‘excellent and productive’. "Excellent meeting with the Adviser for Foreign Affairs Md. Touhid Hossain...we had a productive discussion on key elements of our bilateral relationship," said Ambassador Christensen after the meeting. Bangladesh and the United States are likely to sign a trade agreement on Monday. Dhaka eyes a reducing reciprocal tariff. Bangladesh has achieved an 'important step forward' towards strengthening its mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States, opening the door to greater market access and new opportunities for its vital textile and apparel sector, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing last month. In response to a request from National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman who recently visited Washington DC, US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer has agreed to raise with US President Donald Trump the possibility of reducing Bangladesh’s current 20% reciprocal tariff rate, bringing it more in line with regional competitors.

The Bangladesh–Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industries held its first meeting on Saturday, marking the formal launch of the chamber’s activities in Bangladesh. The meeting was hosted by Masud Jamil Khan, Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of Cosmos Group and Honorary Consul of Ireland in Bangladesh. Around 20 business representatives from different sectors in Bangladesh attended the meeting. The participants included entrepreneurs and professionals from the IT, education, garments and pharmaceutical sectors etc.

The European Union Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham Bangladesh) on Saturday reiterated grave concern over ongoing disruptions at Chattogram Port, which are inflicting mounting economic losses, jeopardising export performance and undermining confidence in Bangladesh’s supply chain reliability. EuroCham Bangladesh stressed that predictable, uninterrupted and efficient port operations are essential for safeguarding export performance, protecting millions of jobs indirectly supported by overseas demand, and maintaining Bangladesh’s reputation as a reliable sourcing destination for European and global markets. EU apparel imports from Bangladesh recently exceeded US$9.6bn. EuroCham Bangladesh urged all relevant stakeholders to take immediate steps to ensure the full resumption of normal port operations. EuroCham Bangladesh urged resolve ongoing disputes through constructive dialogue in a manner that safeguards national economic interests and advance port modernisation initiatives that enhance efficiency, reliability and long-term competitiveness as well as predictability. EuroCham Bangladesh said it remains committed to supporting business growth thus strengthening Bangladesh’s trade infrastructure and stands ready to engage constructively with authorities and stakeholders to help ensure a stable, efficient and future-ready port system. Chattogram Port handles more than 90 per cent of Bangladesh’s international trade and is the primary gateway for the country’s export-oriented industries. Bangladesh export sector faces global economic headwinds, domestic challenges: Experts Under normal conditions, the port moves around 2,000-2,500 export containers daily. Over recent days, however, work stoppages have brought operations almost entirely to a standstill, leaving export goods and container movements in limbo. EuroCham members and European brands sourcing from Bangladesh are reporting growing concern. With export schedules collapsing, delivery windows are being missed and additional logistics costs are accruing. In monetary terms, export goods valued at an estimated US$660m (around Tk 80 billion) are currently stuck in around 13,000 containers at port facilities, private depots and ships unable to berth or depart. Approximately 13,000 export containers carrying US$660m in goods are currently stuck due to work stoppages. In 2024–25 the port handled more than 831,000 export container units valued at US$42.3bn. Textiles and RMG account for around 80 per cent of Bangladesh’s exports, making the country the world’s second-largest garment exporter.

Bangladesh and Japan on Thursday signed a historic Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), marking a major milestone in their bilateral ties and giving duty free access to 7,379 Bangladeshi products to the Japanese market. This is the first time Bangladesh has signed an Economic Partnership Agreement with any country. Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin and Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs HORII Iwao signed the agreement on behalf of their respective governments at a formal ceremony at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo. Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan Md Daud Ali, Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi and senior officials from both countries were present at the event. The agreement is the result of seven rounds of negotiations held in Dhaka and Tokyo on trade in goods and services, investment and economic cooperation. Speaking at the ceremony, Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin said the EPA reflects the long standing friendship between Bangladesh and Japan. He also said the agreement is not just a trade document but a sign of Bangladesh’s strong economic future and deep mutual trust between the two countries. He expressed hope that proper implementation of the agreement would open a new chapter of shared prosperity. Under the agreement, Bangladesh will enjoy major benefits in both goods and services trade. A total of 7,379 Bangladeshi products, including ready made garments, will receive 100 percent duty free access to the Japanese market. In return, Bangladesh will gradually expand market access for Japan, allowing 1,039 Japanese products to enjoy duty free or preferential treatment. In the garment sector, the inclusion of single stage transformation will allow Bangladeshi apparel to enter Japan easily without complex conditions related to raw materials. Alongside this, the agreement will open opportunities for Bangladeshi skilled professionals to work in Japan in about 120 service areas across nearly 16 sectors, including IT, engineering, education, caregiving and nursing. This is expected to create more employment opportunities for Bangladeshis in Japan. In return, Bangladesh has agreed to open 98 sub sectors under 12 service categories for Japan. Japan to send election observer mission to Bangladesh for Feb-12 polls Officials expect the agreement to boost bilateral trade as well as Japanese foreign direct investment in manufacturing, infrastructure, energy and logistics. With advanced Japanese technology and investment, the quality of Bangladeshi products is expected to improve, making the country more competitive globally. The EPA is also expected to support small and medium enterprises, develop a skilled workforce and contribute to inclusive economic growth and overall socio economic development of Bangladesh.  

Bangladesh has formally established diplomatic relations with Caribbean nation Grenada through the signing of a joint declaration at the Bangladesh High Commission in London. The joint declaration was signed on Thursday afternoon by Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Abida Islam and Grenada’s High Commissioner to the UK Rachér Croney, marking the official start of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Both Bangladesh and Grenada became members of the United Nations on September 17, 1974. Although various contacts and exchanges took place over the years, no formal diplomatic relations had been established until now. Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Abida Islam described the development as a significant and memorable moment in the history of Bangladesh’s foreign relations. She said the historic step, approved by the Advisory Council led by Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, signals the beginning of a new chapter in South-South cooperation. “This is not merely a diplomatic formality; it is a bridge between South Asia and the Caribbean,” Adiba said, adding that the relationship is founded on mutual respect and a shared vision for a fair and just global order. As fellow members of the Commonwealth, both countries deeply value sovereignty and the resilience required for nation-building, she noted, adding that Bangladesh and Grenada share a unique historical bond. “We will strengthen our voices together on the international stage,” she said. Bangladesh calls for new, accessible climate finance to address damages The High Commissioner highlighted the potential for building a strong alliance by combining Bangladesh’s global leadership in disaster resilience with Grenada’s influential role among Small Island Developing States (SIDS). She also said both sides would work jointly to expand trade and industrial cooperation by leveraging Bangladesh’s global capabilities in pharmaceuticals and textiles and Grenada’s strategic position in the Caribbean region. Abida added that the partnership would further deepen mutual engagement, with both countries remaining steadfast advocates for equitable development and climate justice.

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Thursday said the government has already decided to propose that the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights undertakes an investigation into the case over the assassination of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi at the earliest opportunity. He made remarks when asked whether the Interim government would seek an international investigation into the assassination of Hadi. The interim government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring full justice in this case and will extend all possible cooperation to such an investigation, Alam said. Inqilab Moncho on Thursday staged a sit-in outside the Chief Adviser’s official residence, Jamuna, demanding an impartial investigation under United Nations supervision into the killing of its spokesperson Hadi. The protest began around 5pm with Inqilab Mancha Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, Fatima Tasnim Zuma, Hadi’s wife and a small number of activists participating in the programme. Addressing the gathering, Abdullah Al Jaber said they had deliberately limited the number of protesters considering possible security concerns. “We could have brought many more people if we wanted. We are waiting here with the wife of martyr Osman Hadi until we receive a clear assurance from the Chief Adviser. Without a full guarantee of justice, we will not withdraw from this sit-in,” he said. Stating their specific demand, Jaber said the programme would continue until the government formally announces a neutral investigation into Hadi’s killing under UN supervision. Zuma said Inqilab Moncho, along with Hadi’s wife, had taken position in front of Jamuna to press for the UN-monitored probe. She alleged that while the platform has cooperated with the government, administration and political parties, it has not received similar cooperation in return. Later in the evening, the Jamaat-backed 11-party alliance candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency Nasiruddin Patwary visited the site and expressed solidarity with Inqilab Moncho. Hadi was also expected to contest the election from the same constituency. Hadi was shot by assailants on December 12 at Box Culvert Road under Paltan Model Police Station in Dhaka, a day after the schedule for the 13th national parliamentary election and a referendum was announced. Inqilab Moncho stages sit-in outside Jamuna, demands UN-led probe into Hadi killing He was initially taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, later to Evercare Hospital, and eventually flown to Singapore. Hadi died on the night of December 18 while undergoing treatment at Singapore General Hospital. Following the incident, Jaber filed a case of attempted murder with Paltan Police Station on December 14, which was later converted into a murder case.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Thursday acknowledged that the relations between Bangladesh and India have not been 'very smooth’ and to some extent stalled facing some setbacks, during the tenure of the interim government. He however expressed optimism that the next elected government would be able to address these challenges and make the relationship smoother. From the outset, Hossain said, the interim government laid emphasis on maintaining a ‘good working relationship’ with India and did not want to blame anyone for the issues they faced. “I do not want to blame anyone. India has certainly acted in the way it considers best for its interests. We have also tried to act in a way that protects our interests. In many cases, the expectations of the two sides did not match," he told reporters during a views-exchange meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the afternoon. Hossain said there is a difference in how the two sides perceive their own interests, which is why they could not move forward in many areas. Dhaka-Delhi relations, which were described as having witnessed 'a golden chapter' during the previous regime, remained tense throughout the tenure of the outgoing interim government, with several issues preventing ties from returning to a normal and smooth footing. The strain persisted until the final phase of the interim administration, when even sports-related issues became entangled in the broader diplomatic unease. Expressing optimism that the next elected government would be able to move the relationship forward, Hossain at the farewell interaction said the government succeeding the interim administration would find ways to overcome the kind of deadlock and make relations smoother. “I would hope that during the tenure of my successor and the government that succeeds this interim government, a smooth relationship will once again be established,” he said. Hossain said there are issues and conflicts of interest that exist in relations with any country. “Still, a smooth relationship is important. During our time, the relationship was not very smooth. I accept that because there were several setbacks,” he said. Responding to a question about how relations would be affected by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina staying in India, Hossain said, “You cannot be pessimistic. You have to be optimistic. I am optimistic that a way will definitely be found and that solutions to these problems can be reached.” Asked about India’s attitude towards Dhaka’s request for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, he said that attitude is an abstract matter and should not be speculated upon. “What has been done officially can be said. We have asked for her return. We have not received a response. It would not be right for us to speculate beyond that,” he said. Hossain reiterated that the interim government consistently sought good working relations with India. “I can say this much from my side and from the position of the person above me, the Chief Adviser, or the government - there has been no conflict in intent. On the basis of reciprocity and mutual understanding, we genuinely wanted a good working relationship with India. We have always wanted this,” he said. Regarding relations not reaching the expected level, Hossain said, “I cannot say for sure that we have succeeded. In many cases, relations are at a standstill. I would not say a major crisis has emerged, but the relationship has to some extent stalled.” Responding to another question, the Adviser said the interim government is not leaving burdens for the next elected government. Rather, he said, it is working to move issues forward and make things easier for the incoming administration. He cited a likely tariff deal with the United States as an example. Hossain also said some agreements being signed had been under negotiation for a long time. Hossain condemned the attacks on media houses The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, saying such incidents were unacceptable. “Such attacks are not acceptable. We condemn them,” he said, acknowledging that the government was unable to prevent the incidents. Attacks on media houses not acceptable: Adviser Hossain However, he said the Home Ministry would be better placed to comment further on the matter. Hossain said after the formation of the interim government, the media had been able to speak freely. When asked about mob violence and the attacks on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo late on December 18, he said it would be appropriate to raise the issue with the Home Ministry. Senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present at the media briefing.