Bangladesh
300 tonnes of potatoes imported from India through Benapole
A consignment of 300 tonnes of potatoes, imported from India, made their way into the country through Benapole land port recently. This rounds up the total shipment of 1000 tonnes of potatoes during the month of Ramadan.
A total of 32 trucks with potatoes arrived at the land port between March 13 and March 24, said Mizanur Rahman, revenue officer of Benapole Checkpost and Cargo Department, on Wednesday.
Dhaka’s air quality 2nd worst in the world today
Integrated Food and Beverage imported the potatoes from India.
Masum Billah, representative of Transmarine Logistic Limited C&F Agent, said the last consignment of potatoes will be unloaded today.
Bangladesh marks Independence Day with due respect to martyrs
Rezaul Karim, director of Benapole port, said 700 metric tonnes of potatoes have been released from the port.
Police recover woman’s body from her home in Narsingdi; family points finger at neighbour
Police recovered a woman’s body from her house in Palash of Narsingdi district on Tuesday 9 pm.
Deceased Delwara Begum (62), wife of late Malek Dewan, was a housewife.
According to her family members, two of the deceased’s three sons live abroad. One of the sons living abroad made a phone call to the neighbour to asked about his mother. When the neighbours went to the house, they came across the dead body.
Palash Thana police and PBI members visited the spot after receiving the information. The deceased’s family alleged that neighbour Habil Mia’s family could be behind the murder due to ongoing land dispute and lawsuit.
Mohammad Ikhtiyar Uddin, officer-in-charge of Palash Police Station, said that initially it is not possible to say who is involved in the murder. Legal action will be taken after the family's complaint and investigation, he said.
Australian Assistant Defence Minister expresses willingness to continue to work with Bangladesh govt
Australian Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite has congratulated the Bangladesh government for conducting a successful national election and expressed his country’s willingness to continue to work with the government of Bangladesh.
Thistlethwaite said this at the 53rd Independence and National Day reception organised by the Bangladesh High commission in Canberra on March 26.
The assistant defence minister highlighted that Bangladesh and Australia enjoy excellent bilateral relations rooted in Australia’s recognition of Bangladesh on January 31, 1972.
He added that the relations were further strengthened by the visit of the then Labour Prime Minister Gough Whitlam to Bangladesh in 1975. He commended the Bangladesh diaspora in Australia for their contribution to Australian society.
In his statement, High Commissioner M Allama Siddiki expressed optimism that the Bangladesh-Australia bilateral partnership would be strengthened and widened in the coming days.
He conveyed his gratitude to the government and people of Australia for the cause of the Liberation War.
Offering tribute to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the High Commissioner recalled Bangabandhu’s unflinching leadership and contribution of the valiant freedom fighters in achieving the independence of Bangladesh.
He also highlighted economic success along with communal harmony and liberal culture in Bangladesh in his remarks.
More than 250 guests including Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Chair of Australia-India Parliamentary Group Andrew Charlton MP, ACT Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Peter Cain MLA, Chief of Protocol, Deputy Secretary of South and South East Asia Group and other senior representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Defence, Department of Agriculture, ambassadors and other members of the diplomatic community, members of the business community, representatives from media and distinguished members of Bangladesh community attended the reception.
Members of the Band of the Royal Military College of Australia performed the instrumental national anthems of Bangladesh and Australia at the reception.
Documentaries on Bangladesh's rich culture, history, heritage and economic success and business opportunities were screened.
Earlier on the March 26 morning, the national flag was hoisted at the Chancery premises. The messages of the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out.
A special munajat was also offered for the salvation of the departed souls of the Father of the Nation and his family members, martyrs of the Liberation War, as well as for a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s story is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance and determination: UNGA President
President of the UN General Assembly, Ambassador Dennis Francis, has said with a well-educated workforce and a dynamic youth population, modern Bangladesh has overcome remarkable odds to become an economic powerhouse in South Asia.
Francis made the comment while delivering remarks as the chief guest at a reception hosted by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York to celebrate Independence and National Day of Bangladesh.
The President of the UN General Assembly mentioned that Bangladesh’s story is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance and determination in the most trying of times.
He also stated that in addressing the United Nations, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman eloquently ushered in fresh ideas for building a world free from economic inequalities, social injustice, and the threats of nuclear war.
At the reception, the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh, Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith delivered welcome remarks and mentioned that even after the Liberation War that caused unprecedented destruction, Bangladesh was able to demonstrate remarkable resilience and achieve tremendous success in its development trajectory.
Especially over the last decade, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has emerged as a role model for development.
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Mexico
Ambassador Muhith paid rich tributes to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, three million martyrs, two hundred thousand women who were victims of sexual violence and all heroic freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifice for Bangladesh’s independence. He also expressed most sincere gratitude to the friendly nations who accelerated Bangladesh’s victory by extending all possible support – both at the battlefield and at the diplomatic front.
Both President of the General Assembly and the Permanent Representative of Bangladesh referred to the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s membership to the United Nations.
Ambassador Muhith further mentioned that guided by the famous dictum of the Father of the Nation: “Friendship to all, malice towards none”, Bangladesh joined the UN family 50 years ago and made multilateralism an absolute priority.
He also reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to make value-driven contribution to all important UN discourses.
Bangladesh Embassy in Seoul celebrates Independence Day
The event was attended by around 150 Permanent Representatives, high officials of the UN Secretariat, international media personalities, think tank and other dignitaries.
The event started with hoisting of national flag and playing the national anthem.
Khulna’s rail link with Dhaka restored 7 hours after collision
Train communication between Khulna and Dhaka was restored on Wednesday morning after seven hours of suspension, following a collision between a cargo train and oil-carrying train at Ishwardi Railway Junction in Pabna district.
Shah Shafi Nur Mohammad, manager of Pakshi Division of Bangladesh Railway, said train communication resumed around 7 am today.
A four-member probe body has been formed to look into the incident, and the reason behind the collision can be known after getting the report from the committee, he said.
Cumilla train derailment: 4 bogies removed
The committee has been asked to submit its report within three working days.
Primarily, the railway authorities suspended three people, including the two locomotive drivers, in this connection.
Train communication between Khulna with Dhaka was suspended as a Khulna-bound oil wagon train collided head on with a goods-laden train while crossing the Ishwardi Level Crossing.
Later, a rescue train from Ishwardi salvaged the two trains. No one was injured in the accident, said Nur Mohammad.
Train movement between Dhaka and north resumes four hours after derailment in Tangail
Dhaka Metro Rail operations to continue past 9 pm from today
In a significant move to enhance late-night transportation options, the Dhaka Metro Rail has announced an extension of its operating hours. Starting today (March 27, 2024), the service will run an additional hour past its previous closing time, now concluding at 9:40 pm.
This decision, as explained by MAN Siddique, the Managing Director of Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), is a direct response to the increasing public demand for extended metro service hours. The announcement was made on March 25, marking a pivotal change in the metro's schedule to accommodate the needs of late-evening commuters.
Dhaka Metro Rail service hours being extended from March 27
Under the new timetable, the final train from the Motijheel station is scheduled to leave at 9:40 pm, while the last departure from the Uttara terminal will be at 9:20 pm. This adjustment will see the introduction of trains departing every 12 minutes during the newly added service hour, integrating an additional 10 trains into the daily rotation.
With this extension, the total number of daily metro trips will rise from 184 to 194, reflecting the DMTCL's commitment to improving public transportation accessibility and convenience.
Metro rail operating hours to be extended by one hour from 16th Ramadan
Prior to this change, Dhaka Metro Rail's operation hours spanned from 7 am to 8:40 pm. The service frequency included trains running every 8 minutes during peak hours—from 7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 8 pm—and every 12 minutes during off-peak periods, between 11 am and 2:30 pm. This schedule adjustment is anticipated to significantly benefit the city's metro users by providing more flexible travel options during the evening.
Forum for Asia kicks off annual conference in China’s Boao
Forum for Asia (BFA) kicked off its 2024 Annual Conference with a press conference on March 26, 2024, in Boao, Hainan Province, China.
Secretary General Li Baodong welcomed a diverse audience of nearly 2,000 attendees from over 60 countries and regions, including more than 1,100 journalists representing 170 media organizations from around the globe.
China Media Group launches new Al productions
Li introduced the theme of this year's conference, "Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibilities." Amidst the intricate web of global challenges, maintaining peace and prosperity hinges on the collaborative endeavors, shared responsibilities, and enhanced cooperation of the international community.
The conference will focus on "4+1" key priorities: "World Economy," "Scientific and Technological Innovation," "International Cooperation," and "Meeting Challenges with Solidarity." These priorities will be explored through in-depth discussions and analysis, aimed at identifying common interests and responsibilities in global development.
Bangladesh, China enjoy solid, profound political trust and fruitful practical cooperation: Xi Jinping
The first four modules will delve into a thorough analysis of the existing challenges and opportunities confronting Asia and the globe, delving into shared interests and responsibilities in global development. The fifth module will put on lenses from different guests’ perspectives and focus on bolstering cooperation and tackling challenges collectively. This module will feature a series of bilateral dialogues and roundtables for entrepreneurs. Through these modular discussions, BFA aims to strengthen the consensus that sustainable development is a universal goal and that global solidarity and cooperation are shared responsibilities.
Li underscored the escalating development and security challenges stemming from sluggish economic growth, a complex international landscape, frequent natural disasters, and the urgent call for global governance.
However, the world economy is steadily emerging from the pandemic and scientific and technological advancements are fueling new global growth engines. BFA aims to harness the collective wisdom and strength of participants from Asia and beyond to address challenges, foster collaboration, and pave the way for a shared future.
Li expressed gratitude to all partners for their strong support of the 2024 Annual Conference.
Dhaka’s air quality 2nd worst in the world today
Dhaka ranked second on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality, with an AQI score of 213 at 9:48 am, on Wednesday morning.
Dhaka’s air was classified as ' very unhealthy' — posing serious health risks to residents, according to the air quality index.
Pakistan’s Lahore and India’s Delhi occupied the first and third spots on the list, with AQI scores of 266, 189 respectively.
Air pollution: 7 vehicles, 6 brick kilns fined over Tk 20 lakh
When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents.
The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them.
The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.
Air pollution causing severe health concerns: CPD
Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.
As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.
Bangladesh’s Independence Day celebrated in Mexico
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Mexico City has celebrated Bangladesh's Independence and National Day with due solemnity at the Chancery.
Due to the Holy month of Ramadan, the reception including cultural presentation to commemorate the day will be held on April 25, said the Embassy.
The day commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag accompanied by the national anthem, followed by laying a floral wreath at the bust of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by Ambassador Abida Islam, in the presence of all embassy officials.
Messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were conveyed.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
A documentary titled "Smart Bangladesh" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was screened, followed by a special prayer for the martyrs' salvation and peace and progress of Bangladesh.
During an open discussion, embassy officials emphasized the significance of the day, expressing hopes for peace and prosperity for the people of Bangladesh and beyond.
They paid deep respect to the undaunted leader, Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
In her address, Ambassador Abida Islam paid rich tribute to the Founding Father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and all the martyrs.
The envoy highlighted the ongoing socio-economic development of the country under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Bangladesh marks Independence Day with due respect to martyrs
She also reflected on Bangladesh-Mexico relations, including the Embassy's efforts in promoting trade, commerce, cultural exchanges, and enhancing people-to-people contact.
The envoy reiterated the commitment to working together to realize Bangabandhu's dream of building a prosperous Bangladesh and contributing to peace worldwide.
Bangladesh, Canada ties will expand, strengthen across all domains: Envoy
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Canada Dr Khalilur Rahman has expressed optimism that the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Canada will expand and strengthen in the future across all domains, including trade and investment.
He acknowledged the wholehearted support of the government and people of Canada during Bangladesh's Liberation War.
Speaking at the Independence Day programme, the envoy noted the historically friendly bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Canada since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 14 February 1972, especially in the areas of mutual interests, including human rights, development, counter-extremism, women's empowerment and combating climate change.
Bangladesh marks Independence Day with due respect to martyrs
The Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa observed Independence and National Day with dignity and fervour.
Khalilur Rahman hoisted the national flag with the playing of national anthem at Bangladesh House in Ottawa in presence of all officers and officials of the High Commission.
A special prayer was offered to honour the souls of the Father of the Nation and the architect of independence, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the 3 million martyrs of the Liberation War.
In the second segment of the programme, a special discussion meeting, chaired by the High Commissioner, was convened in the High Commission's auditorium during the afternoon.
Valiant Freedom Fighters and members from the Bangladeshi community in Canada participated in this discussion meeting.
Bhutanese King, Queen join Bangabhaban reception on Independence Day
The program commenced with the placing of floral wreaths at the portrait of the Father of the Nation by the High Commissioner.
Following this, messages from the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on this occasion were read out by the High Commission officers.
This was followed by the screening of a documentary in commemoration of Independence and National Day.
The High Commissioner especially invited the valiant freedom fighters present in the discussion meeting to speak.
They hailed Bangladesh's independence as the nation's greatest achievement.
They pledged to work collectively to instill the spirit of the Liberation War and patriotism among the second and third generations of Bangladeshis residing in Canada.
The High Commissioner also posed for photographs with the valiant freedom fighters.
In his address, Khalilur Rahman highlighted the pivotal role of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in leading the nation towards independence.
He recalled Bangabandhu's call for independence on 7 March 1971, in his famous speech at the then Racecourse, and the subsequent declaration of independence by him in the early hours of 26 March 1971, urging all to join the war.
The High Commissioner paid homage to the sacrifices of the 3 million martyrs and the two hundred thousand mothers and sisters who were violated and endured profound suffering during the liberation war. He emphasized the importance of embodying the non-communal spirit of the Liberation War in both societal and political lives.
He lauded Bangladesh's remarkable economic progress, especially in the last one and a half decades under the leadership of Bangabandhu’s able daughter, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The envoy called upon all Bangladeshis living at home and abroad to contribute to building a developed and prosperous 'Smart Bangladesh' by 2041 under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.