United News of Bangladesh

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Tuesday sought the UK’s support for Bangladesh’s candidature for the upcoming Presidency of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) for the term 2026-2027. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke who met the Foreign Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ‘committed to relay’ Bangladeshi candidate’s competency to the headquarters and assured that the UK would give ‘due consideration’ to Bangladesh’s candidature. The Foreign Minister and the High Commissioner discussed on exploring new avenues for collaboration, particularly in areas of mutual interest such as education, migration, security cooperation, Rohingya repatriation and enhancing the ties between our peoples. The Foreign Minister urged the UK to continue playing its leadership role in the United Nations Security Council and other international fora for speedy returns of the Rohingyas to Myanmar. The Foreign Minister appreciated the UK for sending Seema Malhotra, Minister for the Indo-Pacific, during the oath-taking ceremony of the new government. Both sides noted with satisfaction the deep historical ties, strong people-to-people connections, and the vibrant Bangladeshi diaspora in the United Kingdom, which continues to serve as a vital bridge between the two countries. "We had a very good discussion where we reaffirmed strength and depth of the UK-Bangladesh partnership," the British High Commissioner told reporters after the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She said they discussed strengthening cooperation across the whole range of different areas in support of their shared priorities including economic growth, migration, security, climate change and also the Rohingya. "As you know UK has very long standing partnership with Bangladesh and we are very much looking forward to continuing to work closely together in this new chapter for the country," said the British High Commissioner.  The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism about the future trajectory of Bangladesh-United Kingdom relations and reaffirming their commitment to closer collaboration on bilateral, regional, and global issues of shared interest. The UK’s generous trade preference regime, the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), can help Bangladesh diversify its exports and create new opportunities for Bangladeshi businesses, whilst lowering prices for UK consumers. The UK is one of the largest investors in Bangladesh.  

The government of Japan and UNICEF have signed a new agreement designed to deliver life‑saving support to Rohingya children and their families in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi and UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh Rana Flowers on Monday confirmed that the government of Japan’s US$1.4 million contribution will benefit more than 56,500 refugees, including over 36,000 children, by deliveringcritical services in education; water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); nutrition; and health. The support reflects Japan’s longstanding partnership with UNICEF of more than 70 years and its role as one of UNICEF’s largest government donors globally, with a strong commitment to human security, universal health coverage, and the humanitarian–development–peace nexus, said the Japanese Embassy in Dhaka on Monday. Now entering its ninth year, the Rohingya refugee crisis remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted humanitarian situations. Overcrowded living conditions, disease outbreaks, malnutrition, and limited learning space continue to place children at grave risk. The government of Japan and UNICEF said the camps must remain safe havens until children can safely return home. Providing health care, nutrition, clean water, and learning opportunities is fundamental not only to children’s survival and development but also to preserving the Rohingya culture and identity. Ambassador Saida hoped that the support from the government of Japan will improve the living conditions for both Rohingya refugees and host communities. "I am pleased to announce Japan's new agreement with UNICEF, especially amid declining global funding. This aid focuses on critical services like education, WASH, nutrition, and health, reflecting Japan's long-standing partnership with UNICEF and our strong commitment to human security. We believe this investment will significantly enhance their resilience and dignity, and Japan remains a resolute partner in this essential humanitarian endeavor," said the Ambassador. Critical to the Government of Japan’s approach is ensuring that efforts to protect vulnerable populations also bolster their resilience, dignity, protection and stability. Accordingly, UNICEF will ensure Rohingya children continue their learning by expanding access to the Myanmar Curriculum on Bhasan Char and supporting formal education as well as skills training for adolescents in Cox’s Bazar. “For Rohingya children, every day in the camps brings new risks — from disease and malnutrition to missed learning and lost childhood moments,” said Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh. “The support from the Government of Japan will help keep children healthy and in learning, promoting practical pathways for skill building, while giving families the tools to care for their youngest children. At a time of shrinking resources, and when the future of an entire culture is at risk, this partnership is a vital investment in children’s survival, dignity, and future.” The partnership will also strengthen safe water and sanitation services by improving water supply systems and sanitation facilities, crucial to reducing outbreaks of cholera, dengue, and other diseases. Households will receive hygiene supplies, including soap and menstrual hygiene materials, supporting both health and gender equity, a shared priority for Japan and UNICEF. Japan provides $1.4m to support 36,000 Rohingya children in Bangladesh Aligned with Japan’s strong global advocacy for Universal Health Coverage, UNICEF will scale up services to prevent and treat child malnutrition and enhance maternal and newborn health, including care at the Newborn Stabilization Unit on Bhasan Char and primary health centres in Cox’s Bazar. Japan is a longstanding partner of UNICEF in Bangladesh. Since the start of the Rohingya emergency in August 2017, the government of Japan has contributed over US$250 million to UN agencies and NGOs in Bangladesh for the Rohingya refugee response, and approximately US$47 million to support Rohingya children and families through UNICEF.

Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani on Monday night made another telephone call to Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman to discuss the death of a Bangladeshi national in Bahrain. During the conversation, Bahrain’s foreign minister formally confirmed that the Bangladeshi citizen died after being hit by debris from a missile launched by Iran. On behalf of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Dr Al Zayani conveyed deep condolences to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman over the tragic incident. The Bahraini foreign minister reiterated that his government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the overall safety, security and welfare of Bangladeshi nationals living in Bahrain and that these efforts will continue in the future. Bangladesh’s foreign minister expressed sincere thanks to the Bahrain government for its cooperation and support following the incident. Earlier in the day, the Bahraini foreign minister also spoke to his Bangladeshi counterpart over the phone regarding the matter.  

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar have assured Bangladesh of taking all necessary measures to ensure the overall safety, security and welfare of Bangladeshi citizens living in their respective countries. Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi separately telephoned Foreign Minister Dr Rahman on Monday afternoon and discussed the ongoing crisis and the security of Bangladeshis in the region They referred to the long-standing close and brotherly relations between Bangladesh and their countries and said that they consider Bangladeshi citizens residing in their countries as their own citizens, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They described Bangladeshis as hard-working, law-abiding and responsible, and also specifically mentioned the important contribution of Bangladeshis to the economies of their countries. The Foreign Ministers of Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates expressed deep shock and concern over the tragic death of two Bangladeshi citizens and the injury of seven others in the context of the ongoing conflict. They described the unprovoked attacks on their countries in recent days as unacceptable and reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of civilians. The Ministers concerned expressed deep gratitude to Bangladesh for the solidarity shown by the government of Bangladesh in this context.

US Assistant Secretary S. Paul Kapur will arrive in Dhaka on Tuesday on a two-day visit to ‘strengthen strategic ties’ between Bangladesh and the United States. During his visit, Assistant Secretary Kapur will meet with new government officials and business leaders to discuss expanding bilateral trade and investment, enhancing security cooperation, and advancing shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region, said U.S. Mission Spokesperson Poornima Rai on Monday. The United States looks forward to working with the newly elected government to advance prosperity and the security of the region. Paul Kapur was sworn in as Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs on October 22, 2025. He is currently visiting New Delhi, India (March 1-3) to discuss regional security and shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific. Assistant Secretary Kapur’s visit builds upon recent momentum to advance President Trump’s vision for robust and mutually beneficial U.S.-India partnership. US President Donald J. Trump has recently congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his assumption of office and expressed hope for stronger defence cooperation between the two countries. In his message to Tarique Rahman last month, President Trump said he expects the new Prime Minister to take decisive steps to complete the routine defence agreements that would enable Bangladesh’s military to access high-end American-made equipment, which he described as the best in the world. “I look forward to working with you to make the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh stronger than ever before,” he said in a letter to PM Tarique, shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Indonesian envoy highlights strong relations between Dhaka and Jakarta President Trump said the partnership between the two countries is based on mutual respect and a shared interest in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, sovereign nations can prosper. “As you begin your term, I hope you will help me maintain the tremendous momentum in our trade relationship through the implementation of our Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, which benefits farmers and workers in both of our countries,” he said. President Trump said his Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, has my full confidence. “Together, we have an opportunity to make both of our nations more prosperous and secure.”

Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bangladesh Listyowati, who uses just one name, has highlighted the strong and longstanding diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Indonesia, with cooperation continuing to grow across various sectors, particularly in trade and economic engagement. She appreciated what have been done by the Indonesia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (IBCCI) and emphasised its important role in connecting the business communities of both countries and encouraging greater private-sector collaboration. The Ambassador made the remarks while attending an Iftar gathering organised by the Indonesia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (IBCCI) on Sunday. The event was officially opened by the current President of IBCCI Mohammed Riyadh Ali and was also attended by State Minister of Finance and Planning Zonayed Saki, along with prominent business leaders and members of the diplomatic corps. The Ambassador also conveyed Indonesia’s role this year as Chair of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) and informed participants about the upcoming D-8 Summit in April, including the organization of the D-8 Halal Expo. Bangladesh is an active and important member of the D-8, and she encouraged Bangladeshi businesses to actively participate in these events to further strengthen trade, investment, and economic partnerships between the two nations. The Iftar gathering concluded in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Bangladesh. Ambassador Listyowati arrived in Dhaka on 17 January 2026 and presented the credentials to the President of Bangladesh on 22 January 2026.

Amid the growing tensions in the Middle East, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Monday reaffirmed that Bangladesh’s position remains unequivocal, with the protection of its citizens and national interests as the foremost priority. “If our citizens are affected, we will stand firmly beside them. We do not believe war or conflict offers any solution. Our greatest national interest is our people. We hope no Bangladeshi will lose life or suffer injury. We seek a peaceful resolution as soon as possible through dialogue and diplomacy,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after an inter-ministerial meeting on the evolving situation in the Middle East. The Foreign Minister said necessary measures are being taken to ensure that Bangladeshis currently stranded in the country can travel smoothly to their respective destinations for employment once flight operations resume. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed said the government remains in close contact with the families of the two Bangladeshi nationals who lost their lives. Arrangements are underway to repatriate their bodies once conditions stabilise. She also reiterated that steps are being taken to facilitate the departure of stranded workers as soon as the situation normalises. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir emphasised that the government will do everything possible to safeguard the welfare and security of Bangladeshi citizens amid the ongoing crisis. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, he said all relevant issues were thoroughly reviewed. “They (Bangladesh nationals) are our utmost priority,” he said, underscoring the government’s full commitment to their protection and well-being. Kobir also called for de-escalation and urged all parties to pursue diplomacy. Dhaka saddened over assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhhury, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Hoque, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, and representatives from Biman Bangladesh Airlines and other relevant departments were present at the meeting. Two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the updates on Monday, stating that the government of Bangladesh is ‘deeply saddened’. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume, said the ministry. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. Japan provides $1.4m to support 36,000 Rohingya children in Bangladesh They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital, said the Ministry. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterated its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.

Two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the updates on Monday, stating that the government of Bangladesh is ‘deeply saddened’. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume, said the ministry. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Tehran refuses negotiations; Israeli air strikes kill 31 in Lebanon Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital, said the Ministry. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterated its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.  

Expressing deep sorrow over the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a targeted attack, Bangladesh on Monday said ensuring the safety and security of more than six million Bangladeshis living in the Middle East remains its top priority. "Our embassies in the countries concerned have been asked to issue appropriate advisories for our nationals to remain vigilant and strictly follow the guidance issued by the respective host governments," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. PM consults experts to overhaul Dhaka's traffic system Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman sat in a meeting in the afternoon to discuss the situation in the Middle East as Bangladesh continues to be 'deeply concerned' at the safety and security of Bangladeshi nationals, a senior official told UNB. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and representatives from the relevant Ministries are attending the meeting. The Foreign Minister is scheduled to brief the media at 4:30pm today. Meanwhile, the MoFA in a statement said the government is "saddened to learn" that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a targeted attack which is a violation of international law and norms. Bangladesh extended heartfelt condolences to the brotherly people of Iran. "Bangladesh believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to the international law can resolve disputes," MoFA said The government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh is "deeply saddened" to inform that two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterates its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.  

Japan has signed a new agreement with Unicef, providing $1.4 million to deliver life-saving support to Rohingya refugee children and their families in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. The funding will benefit more than 56,500 refugees, including over 36,000 children, through critical services in education, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), nutrition and health, Unicef said in a press release on Monday. The agreement was signed by Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi and Unicef Representative in Bangladesh Rana Flowers in Dhaka. Ambassador Saida said the new assistance comes at a time of declining global humanitarian funding. “I am pleased to announce Japan's new agreement with Unicef, especially amid declining global funding. This aid focuses on critical services like education, WASH, nutrition and health, reflecting Japan's long-standing partnership with Unicef and our strong commitment to human security,” she said. He hoped that the support would enhance resilience and dignity of both Rohingya refugees and host communities, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to the humanitarian response. Now entering its ninth year, the Rohingya crisis remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted humanitarian situations. Overcrowded camps, disease outbreaks, malnutrition and limited access to learning spaces continue to put children at significant risk. Rana Flowers said Rohingya children face daily risks ranging from disease and malnutrition to disrupted education. “The support from the Government of Japan will help keep children healthy and in learning, promote skill-building pathways and equip families to better care for their youngest children,” she said, describing the partnership as a vital investment in children’s survival, dignity and future. Under the agreement, Unicef will expand access to the Myanmar Curriculum on Bhasan Char and support formal education and skills training for adolescents in Cox’s Bazar. The partnership will also strengthen safe water supply systems and sanitation facilities to reduce outbreaks of cholera, dengue and other diseases. Hygiene supplies, including soap and menstrual hygiene materials, will be distributed to households to support public health and gender equity. Rohingya man held with 'Yaba pills' in Bandarban Aligned with Japan’s global advocacy for universal health coverage, the support will scale up services to prevent and treat child malnutrition and improve maternal and newborn health care, including services at the Newborn Stabilisation Unit on Bhasan Char and primary health centres in Cox’s Bazar. Since the start of the Rohingya emergency in August 2017, Japan has contributed over $250 million to UN agencies and NGOs in Bangladesh for the refugee response, including around $47 million through Unicef to support Rohingya children and families.