United News of Bangladesh

Nordic embassies - Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway - in Dhaka came together on Thursday evening to mark Nordic Day 2026, under this year’s theme “Inclusive Societies, Stronger Together." Nordic Day commemorates the signing of the Helsinki Treaty in 1962, which laid the foundation for formal Nordic cooperation. It highlights the values that guide Nordic engagement globally: democracy, sustainability, gender equality, minority rights, inclusive societies, multilateral cooperation and international law. The celebration showcased the strength of Nordic cooperation and ongoing collaboration between the Nordic countries and Bangladesh in advancing inclusive development, and shared global goals. Young Nordic politicians observe Bangladesh’s election preparations Reflecting the shared commitment, they welcomed Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan as the chief guest. The event featured traditional Nordic cuisine, music, and provided a welcoming space for dialogue, cultural exchange and connection amongst guests.

Newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen on Thursday presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin at Bangabhaban and said he looks forward to strengthening the Bangladesh-US relationship.  “Today I had the honor of presenting my Ambassadorial credentials to President Shahabuddin. The United States is proud to call Bangladesh a friend," he said in a brief statement after the ceremony. In over 50 years of partnership, the US Ambassador said they have worked together to promote regional stability, economic growth benefiting both the two countries, and the sovereignty of their great nations. "I look forward to continuing this work and further strengthening the U.S.-Bangladesh relationship," he said. Read more: UAE rulers grant royal pardons to 440 Bangladeshi prisoners “It is an honor for me to serve the United States as the 19th Ambassador to Bangladesh,” said Ambassador Christensen who along with his wife Deanne Dao arrived in Dhaka on Monday. In a brief statement shared by the US Embassy in Dhaka soon after his arrival, he said they both are thrilled to return to a country that holds many fond memories for them.

Bangladesh and Nepal have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation, focusing on finalising a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), easing visa facilitation and reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers. The issues were discussed at the 8th Commerce Secretary-level Meeting between the two countries held at a city hotel in Dhaka from January 13–14. The Bangladesh delegation was led by Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman while the Nepal side was headed by Commerce Secretary Dr Ram Prasad Ghimire. During the meeting, both sides reviewed ways to increase market access for goods from both countries, facilitate payment systems and strengthen reliable transaction mechanisms to boost bilateral trade. Read More: Australia to issue visas for Bangladeshis from Dhaka The commerce secretaries also discussed development of port infrastructure, expansion of rail connectivity, simplification of customs procedures and effective implementation of transit facilities to reduce trade costs and improve connectivity. Special emphasis was given to the early finalisation of the Bangladesh-Nepal PTA. Both sides underscored the need to conclude the draft text, Rules of Origin and product lists through the Trade Negotiating Committee (TNC) within the next three months. Visa facilitation for businesspersons, professionals and tourists was another key agenda item, with both countries agreeing to take concerted steps to simplify and expedite visa procedures to enhance trade, investment and people-to-people contacts. The meeting also agreed on closer cooperation to address non-tariff barriers, streamline product testing and certification processes, and expand bilateral trade through improved logistics and customs facilitation. Both sides expressed satisfaction over the existing excellent bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening economic partnership through enhanced connectivity, trade facilitation and market access. With a view to strengthening bilateral trade, both sides discussed organising trade fairs and exhibitions, as well as exchanging business delegations at the government-to-government (G2G) and business-to-business (B2B) levels. They agreed to hold regular trade fairs, exchange market information, undertake capacity-building initiatives and enhance cooperation at the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) level. It was also agreed that the 9th Commerce Secretary-level Meeting would be held in Nepal at a mutually convenient time.

‘Bangladesh and Singapore: A Tale of Two Nations’, authored by Cosmos Foundation Chairman Enayetullah Khan, was unveiled in Dhaka on Wednesday, exploring historical parallels, cultural exchanges and the deepening economic ties between the two countries, with a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) charting a new course for bilateral relations. Fresh from its Singapore launch, the book was formally introduced at a programme titled ‘Book Launch: Bangladesh and Singapore: A Tale of Two Nations’ held in the city's Baridhara in the evening, where speakers discussed its key themes and future-oriented insights. In his opening remarks, author Enayetullah Khan, also Editor-in-Chief of UNB, said that following the book’s launch in Singapore on November 27, he felt Dhaka’s winter provided the right moment to present it to Bangladeshi readers. The book, he noted, captures nearly six decades of dynamic relations between Bangladesh and Singapore from multiple perspectives. “Bangladesh and Singapore do not merely stand on the conventional foundations of bilateral ties,” Khan said, adding, “Their relationship rests on a powerful narrative — trust, trade, investment and respect. These four principles form the strong pillars of Bangladesh–Singapore relations,” he said, adding that the book examines the economic outlook of both countries alongside their historical connections. Singapore’s independence from Malaysia came six years before Bangladesh achieved independence from Pakistan in 1971, and both nations were led by towering figures — Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Bangladesh and Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore. Despite differing trajectories and transformations after independence, bilateral relations between the two countries have remained resilient. Building on this foundation, the book outlines prospects for a new economic pathway. “Bangladesh is a South Asian country, while Singapore is in Southeast Asia. In today’s global power politics, the Bay of Bengal offers immense opportunities for Bangladesh. If shipping and trade potentials of the Bay are fully utilised, Bangladesh can witness a new wave of economic growth. In this context, a Bangladesh–Singapore FTA could open new doors and usher in a new horizon for both economies,” Khan added. Echoing similar optimism, Singapore’s Acting High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Mitchel Lee, who attended the event as a guest of honour, said the two countries share not only common waters of the Indian Ocean, but also intertwined historical journeys.

Bangladesh on Wednesday (January 14, 2026) lauded Finland and the European Union for deploying a large EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) for the upcoming national elections Bangladesh also sought sought Finland’s support for its post-LDC transition and GSP+ aspirations. Non-resident Ambassador of Finland to Bangladesh Kimmo Lähdevirta paid a courtesy call on Secretary (East & West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Md Nazrul Islam and discussed issues of mutual interest. The Ambassador expressed Finland’s support for a potential Bangladesh-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Read more: Prof Yunus orders strict measures to prevent possible election fraud Dr Islam invited the Ambassador to visit the EPZs to get firsthand experience on production facilities, business operations and above all, the investment opportunities in Bangladesh. During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the steady progress in bilateral relations and reiterated their commitment to further strengthening cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, clean energy, digital services, and textiles. The Secretary congratulated the Ambassador and the people of Finland on the upcoming Nordic Day celebration. The Finnish Ambassador reiterated that Finland is very happy to watch the democratic transition of Bangladesh. Read more: Bangladesh Election: EU Chief Observer clarifies ‘inclusive, participatory’ meaning Secretary Dr Islam shed light on Bangladesh’s reform agenda and preparations for the national parliamentary elections scheduled for 12 February 2026, alongside a national referendum on the implementation of the July National Charter.

The rulers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have granted royal pardons to 440 Bangladeshi prisoners, said the UAE Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday (January 14, 2026). The royal pardons were granted on the occasion of the 54th UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) in 2025, which is observed annually on December 2, commemorating the historic unification of the emirates in 1971 under one flag. The gesture underscores the UAE leadership’s humanitarian values and commitment to giving those pardoned the chance to rebuild their lives and rejoin their families and communities, said the Embassy. Read more: UAE President pardons 25 convicted Bangladesh citizens As part of the Union Day celebrations, UAE leaders pardoned thousands of inmates across the country, marking one of the largest collective clemency initiatives in recent years. The pardons reflect the UAE’s longstanding tradition of granting mercy on significant national and religious occasions. The UAE rulers regularly issue royal pardons during events such as Eid holidays and National Day, promoting forgiveness, family reunification, and social reintegration. The recent pardon initiatives in late 2025 covered thousands of prisoners of various nationalities, including Bangladeshi citizens, offering them an opportunity for a fresh start. Read more: Disney to build its 7th theme park in UAE

Amid reports that Bangladesh plans to sign a G2G agreement with China to establish a military drone manufacturing facility, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said the government would not take any step that could harm Dhaka’s relations with any country. “We will definitely not do anything that will deteriorate our relations with any party. We will act while maintaining a balance,” he told reporters when a journalist asked about the possible impact of such an agreement on Bangladesh’s relations with Washington. Feb Polls: Foreign Adviser clarifies visa policy, cautions against disruptive entry Adviser Hossain said Bangladesh needs to enhance the capabilities of its armed forces, citing the Air Force as an example. “Our aircraft are very old, and many of them are not even in serviceable condition. We will have to make minimum purchases. There is ongoing discussion about where to procure equipment from and how much to acquire from which country,” he said. Ahead of the formal signing of the agreement with China, media reported said the Ministry of Finance on January 6 approved a project proposal officially titled “Establishment of Manufacturing Plant and Transfer of Technology (ToT) for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).” Responding to a question about alliance formation, the Foreign Affairs Adviser said Bangladesh has not joined any alliance in the past one and a half years. Foreign Adviser communicates with Pakistani counterpart ahead of OIC ministerial meet on Somalia “Discussions on various groupings will continue. If we see that joining a group serves our interests and helps protect them, we will do so. Otherwise, there is no question of joining,” he said.  

The government on Wednesday said it remains hopeful of a smooth transition through the national election but wants to prevent the arrival of any “unexpected individuals” from abroad who may attempt to create an undesirable situation during the election period. “We are not stopping the issuance of visas. Those who wish to come may apply for visas, and we will issue them as long as their purpose is valid,” Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responding to a journalist’s query regarding reports of the suspension of visa-on-arrival facilities. “You know, during the election period, there may be attempts to create unexpected situations. Some unwanted individuals may try to enter the country suddenly,” he said. The Foreign Adviser said the Ministry of Home Affairs is truly better positioned to comment on the matter but acknowledged that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has received instructions in this regard. Read more: Bangladesh issues special visa guidelines ahead of national election  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Bhutan on Tuesday informed the general public that the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh in Thimphu has officially conveyed that the government of Bangladesh has suspended the “Visa on Arrival” facility for all eligible countries, including Bhutan, with effect from January 15 to February 15. In view of this, Bhutan said, all Bhutanese nationals intending to travel to Bangladesh during the above period are advised to apply for a visa in advance through the Embassy of Bangladesh in Thimphu prior to their travel. The Bhutanese Ministry advised all travelers to take note of this change and make the necessary arrangements well in advance to avoid any inconvenience. Foreign Affairs Adviser Hossain on January 8 confirmed that they have asked its three key diplomatic missions in India to keep their visa sections closed for a time being on security grounds. “What I have done is that I have asked our three missions to keep their visa sections closed for the time being. It’s a security issue,” he said while responding to a question at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at that time. Read more: Foreign Adviser communicates with Pakistani counterpart ahead of OIC ministerial meet on Somalia Asked about the matter, Hossain on Wednesday had taken the decision due to a special situation, noting that they have to look after the security of the missions.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday emphasised the importance of ocean conservation and sustainable blue economy, hoping that the MoU signed between Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (MIDA) and Japan’s renowned Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) will enhance cooperation in fisheries and marine affairs. Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud bin Harun, Executive Chairman of MIDA, and Professor Mitsutaku Makino, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI) of SPF, signed the MoU in the presence of Prof Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. The agreement will be formally endorsed by SPF President Dr. Atsushi Sunami in the coming weeks. Speaking after witnessing the signing, Prof Yunus said, “Our Ocean is a major asset, yet it is increasingly polluted." He said plastic waste has now been detected several thousand meters deep in the sea. "This MoU will help us protect and keep our seas clean,” he said.  

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday (January 14, 2026) said Bangladesh has not yet taken any decision regarding sending its forces to Gaza under the International Stabilization Force (ISF), stressing that the country has clearly outlined three conditions. “No decision has been made. It is still at the discussion level. It has not been determined yet who will be part of this initiative. Most importantly, three conditions have been mentioned clearly,” he told reporters responding to a question at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under no circumstances Bangladesh would join without the creation of an environment consistent with the three key preconditions, he added. Read more: BSC should maintain profitable status, expand fleet: Prof Yunus Asked about discussing such an issue at the fag end of the interim government’s tenure, Adviser Hossain said the tenure is ending with the February 12 election, but the government remains in place. He said the country’s engagement and interests do not change overnight and the government would not do anything that goes against national interests. The Foreign Affairs Adviser also said they are very hopeful that the upcoming transition will take place smoothly. He the ISF is an issue of global concern and does not fully depend on Bangladesh alone. The interim government said some Muslim countries are interested in participating in the force. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Monday said they recognise the significance of the UN Security Council decision to establish the International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza and understand that some Muslim countries are interested in participating in the force. Read more: Election on Feb 12, no matter who says what: Prof Yunus tells former US diplomats “We are also carefully considering the matter,” he said while responding to a question, noting that as one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces and an ardent supporter of the Palestinian cause, their interest in participating in the ISF is contingent on the fulfillment of a number of principles. These include, among others, that the ISF should be temporary and operate under a clear UN Security Council mandate, he said, adding that there must be permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of all Israeli forces from Gaza; and the responsibilities for Gaza will be transferred to the Palestinians. The Press Secretary said they remain steadfast in their support for the right of the Palestinians to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian State based on 1967 borders with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital. "As the third largest Muslim nation in the world, Bangladesh has consistently condemned Israeli genocide in Gaza, and called for its immediate end and the complete withdrawal of all Israeli forces from the territory,” Alam said. Bangladesh noted that the United Nations Security Council, on 17th November 2025, adopted resolution 2803 which provided for, among other things, the establishment of an ISF for Gaza. Alam said all Muslim countries members of the Security Council voted for the resolution. He also said a number of other Arab and Muslim countries jointly recommended the adoption of the resolution by the Security Council. Read more: ISF for Gaza: Dhaka weighs its options carefully