foreign-affairs
Demonstrate genuine political will to take back Rohingyas: Bangladesh tells Myanmar at UN
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations Muhammad A. Muhith has called upon Myanmar to demonstrate genuine political will and cooperate with Bangladesh for implementation of the bilateral arrangements of Rohingya return signed in 2017 and 2018.
He highlighted that the recent escalation in Rakhine has affected the pace of the repatriation process, which is the ultimate solution to the Rohingya crisis.
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“While the 2017 crisis still remains unresolved, Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine are faced with renewed risks,as the armed conflict between Myanmar military and Arakan Army resumes," the ambassador said before the Security Council in New York on April 4.
He was speaking at the open briefing on Myanmar convened by Maltese Presidency to discuss the recent escalation in the Rakhine State and its implications on the civilians, especially the Rohingya minorities.
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The Council heard from Khalid Khiari, the Assistant Secretary-General at the Department and Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Lisa Doughten, Director at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Apart from the members of the Security Council, Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh spoke before the Council.
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Ambassador Muhith expressed hope that the process could commence again as soon as the conditions improve, according to a message received here on Friday from New York.
“We also solicit meaningful and effective engagements of the international community, especially the regional organizations, and regional and neighbouring countries, in restoring peace and stability in Rakhine and supporting reintegration of the future returnees;” he added.
Referring to the UN Security Council Resolution 2669, Muhith underscored the need for creating conducive environment in Rakhine and addressing the underlying root causes of vulnerability among Rohingya minorities, which are entrenched mostly in Myanmar’s discriminatory legal and political framework.
“Unless those underlying causes are addressed, the bilateral and regional efforts are unlikely to succeed’, he said.
Muhith outlined several expectations for addressing the crisis, including the need for the UN to strengthen its presence in Myanmar, regular reporting on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2669, ensuring accountability for crimes committed against Rohingya Muslims and ongoing violations of international humanitarian law, and the timely implementation of the key agreements and recommendations.
Additionally, he emphasised the importance of international partners' support in creating a sustainable environment for Rohingya reintegration in Myanmar society.
Referring to the negative social, economic, environmental and security problems faced by Bangladesh due to protracted presence of the Rohingyas in Bangladesh, Ambassador Muhith called for the Council’s attention to the situation in Rakhine and meaningful action, with a view to attaining, among others, a comprehensive and sustainable solution of the Rohingya crisis.
The other speakers also expressed deep concern at the escalation of conflict and violence in Myanmar, called upon the authorities to take all measures to address root causes of conflict in Rakhine and create conditions for voluntary, safe, sustainable and dignified return of all displaced Rohingyas and the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
They also called for greater international unity and support to the efforts of the UN and the ASEAN in pursuing peace and stability in Myanmar in line with Security Council Resolution 2669.
The speakers applauded Bangladesh for its continued humanitarian leadership in sheltering over a million Rohingya and urged others to support to the humanitarian response in Cox’s Bazar until the displaced Rohingyas are able to return.
BSF hands over body of Bangladeshi youth to BGB
Indian Border Security Force handed over the body of a Bangladeshi youth, who was gunned down by them for intrusion last Tuesday, to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) through Chapainawabganj’s Gomastapur border on Thursday night.
The deceased was identified as Saiful Islam, 32, a resident of Chapainawabganj district.
Naib Subedar Azad Rahman, commander of the BGB-16 Battalion in Rokanpur BOP, confirmed the matter saying that they received the body from the BSF after a flag meeting on company commander level between the countries’ frontier forces on Thursday night.
Police personnel and local representatives from both countries were present during the handing over of the body, he said.
Gomastapur police station’s Officer-in-Charge Chowdhury Jobayer Ahmed said they handed over the body to the family the same night.
It may be mentioned, the BSF members opened fire at some Bangladeshis who allegedly intruded into Indian territory to bring cattle through Rokanpur border in the Gomastapur upazila on Tuesday night.
Saiful reportedly died from the firing.
Indian MEA Spokesman affirms ‘strong and deep’ relationship with Bangladesh in response to ‘India Out’ campaign
India has reaffirmed the strength and depth of its relationship with Bangladesh, characterizing the bilateral ties as robust and multifaceted.
This statement was made by Randhir Jaiswal, Spokesperson at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, in response to inquiries about the "India out campaign."
"India and Bangladesh relations are very strong and deep," he said in a weekly briefing in New Delhi on Thursday.
Jaiswal highlighted the comprehensive nature of the India-Bangladesh partnership, noting its extensive coverage across various sectors including the economy, investment, development, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges
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"You name any human endeavor, it is part and parcel of India-Bangladesh relations," he stated.
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Further emphasizing the dynamism of the partnership, the spokesperson remarked, "It shows how vibrant the partnership is, and it will continue to be so."
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Hope western world will stop supplying arms to Israel: Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Thursday hoped that those who supply weapons to Israel, used for killing innocent people, will realise their wrongdoing and stop the arms supply.
“We expect the Western world will realise and take steps against Israel. We, the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, were beside Palestinians, we are with them, and we will continue to stand beside them,” he told reporters, reacting to the Israeli air strike on aid workers in Gaza that also killed three British citizens.
The Foreign Minister said that people, including innocent children and women, are being killed in Gaza with the armes supplied by the western countries.
“Even, aid workers are being killed. This is something beyond imagination. We expect arms supply to Israel will be stopped," Hasan said.
He said brutality and killings continue in Gaza by the Israeli forces who are not even taking the UN resolution into consideration.
Israeli airstrikes that killed seven aid workers in Gaza reverberated around the world, as friends and relatives mourned the losses of those who were delivering food to besieged Palestinians with the charity, World Central Kitchen.
Among those killed were three British nationals, an Australian, a Polish citizen, an American-Canadian, and a Palestinian. Some had traveled the world, participating in aid efforts in the aftermath of wars, earthquakes and wildfires.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has recently written to President of the State of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas, and reiterated her pledge to support his endeavors in obtaining full membership of Palestine in the United Nations through advocacy in all international forums and beyond.
“I restate our call for a long term ceasefire and urge all concerned to exercise restraint to protect civilian lives and infrastructure,” PM Hasina said in her letter.
Upholding justice, peace and harmony is a core teaching of Islam and all great religions, Hasina said, adding that it is what they consider an antidote to all conflicts and sufferings.
She conveyed her sincerest condolences to the government and brotherly people of Palestine for the tragic loss of innocent lives including children, women and men during the unabated Israel's genocide in Gaza and west Bank since 08 October 2023.
“I acknowledge the receipt of your letter addressed to me delivered through your envoy and General Secretary of Fatah Central Committee on 19 March 2024. I am aware of the Israeli Prime Minister's ‘Day After’ post war plan for Gaza and endorse your grave concerns over it,” Hasina said.
The plan is contempt to the rights of the Palestinian people and violation of the International Law and Accords, the letter reads.
“It is disappointing to see that the plan fails to provide any tangible pathway to this protracted conflict. Rather, it aims at suppressing the legitimate national aspirations of the Palestinians in Gaza while perpetuating Israeli control over the land,” Hasina wrote in her letter.
As a nation which has suffered occupation, and genocide, Hasina said, Bangladesh truly understands the plight of the occupied and persecuted Palestinians.
“Thus, we extend our full solidarity with the people of Palestine on international platforms, condemning the Israeli occupation and advocating for a just resolution based on international law,” the Prime Minister said.
“As Muslim brothers, we would continue to remain committed and steadfast in our support to your legitimate aspiration for independent statehood along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital,” she added.
Foreign Minister discusses visa issuance and air connectivity with Bahrain’s ambassador-designate
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has discussed the reissuance of visas for Bangladeshi expatriates' family members stranded in Bangladesh due to the Covid-19 pandemic, seeking Bahrain's cooperation to reunite them with their families in Bahrain.
This discussion took place on Wednesday, during a meeting with Bahrain's new Ambassador-designate to Bangladesh, Abdul Rahman Mohamed Al Gaoud, who is based in New Delhi.
The Ambassador highlighted the contributions of Bangladeshi expatriates in Bahrain, acknowledging their diligence and positive impact on various sectors, notwithstanding minor legal infractions by a few individuals.
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Ambassador Al Gaoud is poised to present his credentials to the President, symbolising the commencement of his diplomatic tenure in Bangladesh.
A significant topic during the conversation was the potential enhancement of direct air connectivity between Chattogram, Bangladesh, and Manama, Bahrain.
The Foreign Minister proposed that Gulf Airlines could operate additional flights between these cities to foster stronger people-to-people ties. The Ambassador-designate welcomed this suggestion and requested further assistance to increase flight frequencies.
Describing the relationship between Bangladesh and Bahrain as excellent, the Foreign Minister expressed optimism for expanding cooperation across various sectors, including trade, manpower employment, culture, and education, during Al Gaoud's tenure. He also extended gratitude to Bahrain for accommodating numerous Bangladeshi workers, who play a vital role in the economic development of both nations.
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Ambassador-designate Al Gaoud reciprocated the sentiments, expressing eagerness to deepen economic ties and bilateral relations between Bahrain and Bangladesh. The discussions also touched upon enhancing trade and investment avenues.
In a move signaling Bahrain's intent to bolster business and cultural exchanges, the Ambassador informed the Minister about Bahrain's plans to establish a diplomatic mission in Dhaka.
Additionally, Ambassador Al Gaoud met with Foreign Secretary Masud bin Momen to further discuss bilateral interests and collaborative opportunities.
PM Hasina likely to travel to India and China in first bilateral visits since forming new govt
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to embark on bilateral visits to New Delhi and Beijing within the next three months, marking her first such engagements after the January 7 national election. These visits are aimed at deepening Bangladesh's connections with India and China, Asia's two leading economic powers.
Following the formation of the new government, Prime Minister Hasina attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany in February, highlighting her active engagement on the global stage.
Diplomatic sources indicate that PM Hasina's visit to India is planned after the conclusion of the neighbouring country’s national election, which is the world's largest democratic exercise, spanning seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with the vote count set for June 4.
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Pre-election surveys suggest a strong showing for the coalition led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is widely anticipated to secure re-election.
"Prime Minister's (Sheikh Hasina) India visit will definitely take place. However, it will take place after the election in India," Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said.
He said it is not yet discussed at the official level when the visit will exactly take place.
In January, Prime Minister Modi extended warm congratulations to PM Hasina on her electoral victory, expressing hopes for the continued strengthening of the historically close ties between India and Bangladesh.
The last bilateral engagement between PM Modi and PM Hasina occurred during the G-20 Leaders Summit in September 2023, where Bangladesh was the guest country.
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PM Modi is expected to extend invitations to South Asian and BIMSTEC country leaders for his swearing-in ceremony, fostering regional cooperation.
Additionally, PM Hasina's forthcoming visit to China in July was underscored during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who reiterated China's commitment to boosting investment in Bangladesh and enhancing bilateral relations.
Ambassador Yao emphasised the significance of the visit in promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange, aligning with Bangladesh's aspirations for "Vision 2041" and the realisation of a "Smart Bangladesh."
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Hasan Mahmud seeks Portugal’s support in securing EU’s GSP+ trade preferences beyond 2029
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has sought Portugal’s support in securing European Union's (EU’s) GSP+ trade preferences for Bangladesh beyond 2029.
He made the request when new Ambassador-designate of Portugal to Bangladesh (resident in New Delhi) Joao Ribeiro de Almeida met him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Portuguese Ambassador-designate assured his government’s support in this regard and proposed direct maritime connectivity between Chattogram Port of Bangladesh and Leixoes Port of Portugal for further promoting bilateral trade between the two countries.
The Foreign Minister conveyed that Bangladesh government plans to generate 40% of its electricity from renewable sources and encouraged Portuguese investment and expertise in renewable energy sector, particularly generation of electricity from solar, wind and waves.
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The Portuese Ambassador-designate informed that major share of their electricity comes from renewable sources, mainly solar and wind, and it would reach the target of 80% by 2030.
He expressed Portugal’s interest in exploring collaboration with Bangladesh in renewable energy sector.
The Portuguese Ambassador-designate highly praised the Bangladesh community living in Portugal and acknowledged their active contribution to their economy.
The Foreign Minister encouraged opening of a full-fledged diplomatic mission of Portugal in Dhaka to further promote businesses and people-to-people connectivity.
He further suggested strengthening of ties by concluding an instrument on migration and mobility between the two governments.
The Portuguese Ambassador-designate agreed to explore opening a consulate in Dhaka at an early date and start discussion on a bilateral migration and mobility instrument to facilitate skilled migration from Bangladesh to Portugal.
Unlocking Chinese Heritage: Foreign Journalists in China experience art of seal cutting
Foreign journalists from the Asia-Pacific, Eurasia, Arab, Central, and Eastern Europe regions gained hands-on experience with Chinese seal cutting, a unique form of Chinese art.
Originated in China and later spreading across East Asia, seal cutting, also known as seal engraving refers to cutting a design into the bottom face of the seal.
China International Press Communication Centre, an initiative of the China Public Diplomacy Association, organised a programme 'Introduction to the Traditional Culture' in Beijing.
In 2009, Chinese seal cutting was inscribed on the list of world intangible cultural heritage.
Chanthey Roeurn, a Combodian journalist who is the Editor in chief of Economic and Business of DAP news, told UNB that he had no experience in this field, but he found the activity so enjoyable.
Brazilian FM to visit Bangladesh on April 7-8; 4 cooperation documents likely to be signed
Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira is scheduled to visit Bangladesh on April 7-8 to further strengthen trade and investment ties between the two countries.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday confirmed the visit of his Brazilian counterpart.
He said there is a possibility of signing an agreement on technical assistance and three MoUs on sports, agriculture, and defence during the visit of the Brazilian Foreign Minister.
Hasan described the visit of the Foreign Minister of Brazil as very significant.
He said a large business delegation of 24 members will accompany the Foreign Minister.
"Our FBCCI will meet with them. We import edible oil and other products from Brazil. Our exports to South America remain largely unexplored," he said.
Hasan said Brazil is a big country, and their purchasing power is also high. "So there is a great opportunity to increase trade relations with them."
During the visit, the Brazilian Foreign Minister will have a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Hasan.
The government of Brazil earlier congratulated Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her recent election victory.
Brazil expressed its willingness to continue deepening relations with Bangladesh, in favour of the development of both countries, the promotion of South-South cooperation, and the fight against poverty, hunger, and climate crisis.
Brazil-Bangladesh diplomatic relations, established in 1972, have strengthened in recent years.
In 2023, President Lula and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in South Africa.
Last year, bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Brazil reached the US$2.3 billion mark.
In letter to Mahmoud Abbas, PM Hasina pledges continued support for Palestine's UN membership and sovereignty
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has written to President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas and reiterated her pledge to support his endeavors in obtaining full membership of Palestine in the United Nations through advocacy in all international forums and beyond.
"I restate our call for a long term ceasefire and urge all concerned to exercise restraint to protect civilian lives and infrastructure," PM Hasina said in her recent letter.
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Upholding justice, peace and harmony is a core teaching of Islam and all great religions, Hasina said, adding that it is what Bangladesh considers an antidote to all conflicts and sufferings.
She conveyed her sincerest condolences to the government and the people of Palestine for the tragic loss of innocent lives including children, women and men during Israel's unabated genocide in Gaza since October 2023.
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"I acknowledge the receipt of your letter addressed to me delivered through your envoy and General Secretary of Fatah Central Committee on 19 March 2024. I am aware of the Israeli Prime Minister's ‘Day After’ post war plan for Gaza and endorse your grave concerns over it," Hasina said.
The plan is in contempt of the rights of the Palestinian people and violates the International Law and Accords, the letter reads.
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"It is disappointing to see that the plan fails to provide any tangible pathway to this protracted conflict. Rather, it aims at suppressing the legitimate national aspirations of the Palestinians in Gaza while perpetuating Israeli control over the land," Hasina said in her letter.
In this context, she reiterated Bangladesh’s firm position that it is dead against any Israeli plan for reoccupation of any part of Gaza. No expulsion of the Gazans from their own territory, no reduction of the Gaza territory, no restriction on UNRWA's ability to implement its mandate, and no rejection of Palestinian rights to a separate and independent state alongside Israel, the letter says.
"We also hold that military means are not a solution to this conflict. Building on the UN Security Council Resolutions and the International Court of Justice order, it is time to implement a credible process to resolve the ongoing crisis, which could only be achieved through a two-state solution with Palestinians and Israelites living side by side," the letter reads.
As a nation which has suffered occupation, and genocide, Hasina said, Bangladesh truly feels the plight of the occupied and persecuted Palestinians.
"Thus, we extend our full solidarity with the people of Palestine on international platforms, condemning the Israeli occupation and advocating for a just resolution based on international law," the Prime Minister said.
"As Muslim brothers, we would continue to remain committed and steadfast in our support to your legitimate aspiration for independent statehood along 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital," she added.