United News of Bangladesh

King Charles III will formally confer the prestigious ‘Harmony Award 2025’ on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday, recognising his lifelong efforts to promote peace, sustainability and harmony between people and the environment. "Tomorrow (June 12) is a very important day," Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters at a briefing on Wednesday, adding that there will be a number of meetings, in addition to the award ceremony.  Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was the recipient of the prestigious award in 2024. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke has already extended her congratulations to Prof Yunus on his forthcoming receipt of the prestigious King Charles Harmony Award. "It is a great honour," the Chief Adviser said, referring to the award when the High Commissioner met him in Dhaka recently. British Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds meets Prof Yunus Regarding his comments on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Press Secretary Alam said, "I said probably" but some people misinterpreted his remarks.  "What we are knowing is that he is probably in Canada..... visiting Canada. A British parliamentarian came today and told us that he (Keir Starmer) is in Canada," Alam told reporters while responding to a question on Tuesday. The Press Secretary said they corrected it later as the British Prime Minister is in London and the whole British Parliament remains very busy as the budget spending is being reviewed.  Alam said the meetings that the Chief Adviser had so far in London were very fruitful.  The Chief Adviser also attended a dinner on Wednesday hosted by King Charles III, marking the Harmony Award which will be conferred on Thursday.  Prof Yunus arrived here on Tuesday, beginning his four-day official visit to renew their bilateral ties with the United Kingdom, with an increased focus on economic cooperation, trade and investment. All eyes now on Prof Yunus-Tarique talks amid strained BNP-govt ties “This is a very important visit,” said acting Foreign Secretary Ruhul Alam Siddique, noting that Professor Yunus will meet His Majesty King Charles III. “The relationship between Bangladesh and the UK is very deep and diverse,” he added, emphasising that the visit will play a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase Bangladesh’s ongoing reform initiatives, its democratic trajectory and the interim government's commitment to good governance. “And above all,” the acting Foreign Secretary noted, “as a Nobel laureate and a globally respected figure, the Chief Adviser has a unique and positive image around the world. A visit to the UK by a personality like him will further enhance and consolidate Bangladesh’s position in the global arena.” Discussions during the visit also cover global and regional issues, with particular focus on climate change, sustainable development, the Rohingya crisis, and migration. The issues related to asset recovery are also being discussed.  No desire to be part of next elected govt: Prof Yunus According to the government, an estimated US$16 billion was illicitly transferred abroad annually under the previous administration. Bangladesh has already sought cooperation from the British government through its High Commissioner in Dhaka to trace and recover funds allegedly laundered to the UK by individuals associated with the former Sheikh Hasina-led regime.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday said there is no way that he would be interested to be part of the next elected government, stressing that their job is to ensure a well-managed transition to hand over power to an elected government through an election. "No way, no way. I think no one of our cabinet members (Council of Advisers) would like to do that," he said when a journalist wanted to know whether Prof Yunus is in a position and has any desire to become part of the next democratically elected government which will take over after the election. Prof Yunus categorically said their job is to make sure that the transition is managed well and people are happy when they hand over power to the elected government. "We want to make sure that the election is right. This is a very critical factor for us," said the Chief Adviser. The question and answer session was followed by his conversation at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in Chatham House, London. In response to a question about the Bangladesh Awami League, Prof Yunus said there is a debate over whether the Awami League can truly be called a political party when it is accused of killing young people, making citizens disappear and stealing public money. UK’s National Security Adviser meets Prof Yunus  "Would you still call it a political party? So, that's a debate, not a judgement," he said. Prof Yunus said they thought that the chapter was closed when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on August 5 but those who fled the country (AL men) – not one of them expressed sorry but are exciting people. He said the nation has decided, for the time being, to ban activities of the Awami League for the safety of the country and safety of the politicians. "Activities of the Awami League will be suspended for the time being....until the trial is done. That's all we have done," Prof Yunus said. Asked about the media freedom, the Chief Adviser said the media had never enjoyed such freedom in the past. Another journalist raised the issue of demolishing the historic Bangabandhu Memorial Museum by "City Corporation bulldozers, administration's silence and the question of unity excluding particular parties or persons." In reply, Prof Yunus said a lot of issues and questions came at the same time and they cannot handle everything right away. "It's kind of a period we have gone through and things have come down and come to an order...bringing order to the nation was a big task for us." Dhaka-Delhi Ties Responding to a question, the Chief Adviser said Bangladesh wants to build the best of relationship with India but "somehow things go wrong every time" because of fake news coming from Indian media and many people say it has connections with policymakers. "So, this is what makes Bangladesh very jittery and very, very angry. We tried to get over this anger," he said during his conversation at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in Chatham House, London. Prof Yunus said the anger comes back as things are happening on cyberspace. Regarding the extradition request for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Prof Yunus said the trial has started and they want to be very legal in dealing with the issue. When he got the chance, Prof Yunus said, he told Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "You want to host her. I can't force you to abandon that policy. But please help us make sure that she (Hasina) does not speak to Bangladeshis people the way she is doing." Aviation giants Airbus, Menzies seek long-time partnership with Bangladesh "I simply said this," Dr Yunus said referring to his past conversation with Modi. "This is still going on," he added. In April, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus, during his talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, enquired about the status of Bangladesh’s request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina which remains pending with the Indian government.

Executive Vice President of Airbus Wouter van Wersch and Executive Vice President of Menzies Aviation Charles Wyley met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus separately on Tuesday and discussed issues of mutual interests. The meetings were held at his (Prof Yunus) place of residence (hotel) in London, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. All Party Parliamentary Group and Commonwealth Secretary General are also scheduled to meet Prof Yunus separately later in the day. Prof Yunus congratulates new South Korean President The Chief Adviser arrived here on Tuesday, beginning his four-day official visit to renew their bilateral ties with the United Kingdom, with an increased focus on economic cooperation, trade and investment. A flight of Emirates Airlines carrying the Chief Adviser and his small entourage arrived at Heathrow Airport, London at 7:05am (London time), Azad told UNB. High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the United Kingdom Abida Islam received the Chief Adviser. “This is a very important visit,” said acting Foreign Secretary Ruhul Alam Siddique, noting that Prof Yunus will meet His Majesty King Charles III and hold bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, alongside other high-level engagements. “The relationship between Bangladesh and the UK is very deep and diverse,” he added, emphasising that the visit will play a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations. Prof Yunus seeks global backing to tackle Rohingya aid crisis During the visit, King Charles III will formally confer the prestigious ‘Harmony Award 2025’ on Professor Yunus, recognising his lifelong efforts to promote peace, sustainability and harmony between people and the environment. The award ceremony will take place at St James’s Palace in London on June 12. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was the recipient in 2024.    

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have exchanged Eid-ul-Azha greetings in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity. "I am confident that the spirit of mutual respect and understanding will continue to guide our nations to work together for the wellbeing of our peoples," Prof Yunus wrote to PM Modi on June 6. The interim government on Sunday shared both the letters through its verified social media handle. He said Eid-ul-Azha is a time of reflection, which brings communities together in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity and inspires them all to work together for the greater benefits of the peoples across the world. India for 'inclusive, fair, free' polls in Bangladesh at an early date Prof Yunus said he deeply appreciates PM Modi's thoughtful message, kind greetings and warm wishes on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, which reflects the shared values between the two countries. "I also would like to convey my warmest greetings to you, and through you, to the people of India on this auspicious occasion," the message from Prof Yunus reads. On this blessed occasion, Prof Yunus wished PM Modi good health and happiness and the people of India peace, progress, and prosperity. Indian president hopes for ‘democratic, inclusive’ Bangladesh as Dhaka’s envoy presents credentials Earlier, on behalf of the people and the Government of India, PM Modi on June 4 conveyed warm greetings to Prof Yunus and the people of Bangladesh on the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha. This holy festival is an integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and is celebrated with immense joy and fervour by millions of people of Islamic faith across the country, Modi said. "It reminds us of the timeless values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world," PM Modi mentioned. "I take this opportunity to extend my best wishes for your good health and well-being," the message from Modi reads.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Friday expressed the hope that the government will be able to prepare a comprehensive ‘July Charter’, based on the consensus of all political parties, and present it to the nation next month. “The students who led and participated in the July Uprising have announced plans to issue a July Declaration. They invited me to be part of it. I suggested that it would be more meaningful if the declaration is issued jointly—by all political leaders, representatives of civil society and others," he said in a televised address to the nation in the evening. He emphasised that the July Charter would serve as a unified national commitment, reflecting the shared vision of political forces and the proposals recommended by the Reform Commission. “This Charter is a promise,” he said, adding, “It will include a list of reform proposals, agreed upon by all parties, aimed at building a welfare-oriented state. By signing it, the parties will pledge to implement these reforms.” Prof Yunus reiterated the government's commitment to initiating and carrying forward the necessary reforms outlined in the charter. National election in April next: Prof Yunus “We are committed to implementing the urgent reforms as per the July Charter,” he stated. “We also intend to begin work on other key initiatives, which we hope the elected government will carry forward.” Highlighting the significance of national unity and reform, he said they must move forward with resolve and unity. There is no alternative. "Through implementation of the Charter, we will present a new, cohesive image of Bangladesh to the world—one that reflects our strength and solidarity as a nation.” He also lauded the establishment of the Consensus Commission, calling it a courageous and unprecedented initiative. “No other country has seen such a model. Through this, we have discovered new political depth as a nation,” he said. Prof Yunus praised the intensive engagement of all political parties with the commission. “Their group-wise preparations, lengthy and intense discussions—aired live on national television—and unwavering efforts to achieve consensus will remain a landmark moment in our political history,” he noted. “On behalf of the nation, I thank all political parties for their patience, cooperation, and courtesy. I hope they will soon finalise their remaining work and present a complete July Charter that sets a lasting direction for the country.”

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday said a ‘horror museum’ should be established to exhibit the findings of torture and persecution uncovered by the Inquiry Commission on Enforced Disappearances. “The second interim report of the Commission primarily highlighted the severe torture endured by victims of enforced disappearance. Upon hearing these details, Professor Yunus said there should be a ‘horror museum’ to document this,” said his Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. Speaking at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy on the Commission’s second interim report submitted to the Chief Adviser, he also said the horrific incidents of enforced disappearance that took place in Bangladesh were deeply disturbing for everyone. Ways needed to overcome hurdles for stronger ties with Pakistan: Chief Adviser Referring to the establishment of the July–August Mass Revolution Memorial Museum at Gono Bhaban, Alam said part of that museum will be dedicated to the findings and evidence of how the horrific torture was inflicted on the victims of enforced disappearance. Earlier, he said the Inquiry Commission, led by its chief Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, submitted its report to Professor Yunus at the State Guest House in Jamuna. Three other members of the commission--Noor Khan, Sajjad Hossain, and Nabila Idris--were also present. Narrating the findings of the report, Alam said the intelligence wing of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) acted as a killing force in cases of enforced disappearance. “They were the main actors behind the enforced disappearances.” He said the report outlined how individuals were forcibly disappeared and how many were subsequently killed during the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina. “The report was compiled based on the testimonies of victims of enforced disappearance, as well as accounts from a few perpetrators,” the CA’s Press Secretary said. The Inquiry Commission on Enforced Disappearances has so far identified approximately 1,850 cases of enforced disappearance and continues to uncover new cases on a daily basis, he said, adding that the Commission has thoroughly scrutinised each of the 1,350 documented cases. The commission members mentioned that the number of complaints could exceed 3,500, said the CA’s press wing. They said more than 300 individuals are still missing among the victims of enforced disappearance. After the report was submitted, the Chief Adviser said, “Arrangements must be made to publish the report on the website and in book form. There is interest in this not only within Bangladesh but globally as well.” BNP delegation to meet Chief Adviser on April 16 At that time, he instructed the commission members to identify the urgent actions outlined in the report and specify which ministries are responsible for each, so that the government can begin work within a short timeframe. One commission member told the Chief Adviser, “The incidents are so horrific that many of the involved officials and others suffer from remorse. They have contacted us as an effort for self-purification. Two officers even wrote letters formally requesting to get rid of it. These letters were found at Ganobhaban. The then Army Chief publicly acknowledged these letters.” The commission chief requested the Chief Adviser to take initiatives so that the families of the missing persons can at least carry out banking transactions. Under the existing law, he said, a person missing for seven years can be declared dead and he recommended amending the law to reduce this period to five years. Prof Yunus advised the Commission to inform the government of the necessary steps so that action can be taken as soon as possible. Thanking the commission members, the Chief Adviser said, “You are working despite fear, intimidation, and various threats. You are an inspiration to the people of this country. In the future, those who work for human rights will look up to you as an inspiration.” Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abdul Kalam Azad Majumder and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad were also present at the press briefing.  

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will hold the next phase of talks with political parties on Monday afternoon. The talks are scheduled to be held at the Foreign Service Academy at 4:30pm, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told a media briefing on Sunday. Azad said all political parties engaged in the ongoing reform discussions have been invited to attend it. He said the Chief Adviser will inaugurate the talks on Monday, and the discussions will continue thereafter. More talks are likely to be held both before and after Eid-ul-Azha, Azad added. Prof Yunus returns home ending Japan tour The National Consensus Commission has initiated its second round of discussions with political parties. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Ahmmad Foyez were also present.  

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday called upon the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to bolster its support for the Moheshkhali-Matarbari Integrated Development Initiative (MIDI), aiming to transform the region into a vital engine for Bangladesh's future economic growth. The request was made during a meeting with JICA President Dr Tanaka Akihiko on the sidelines of the 30th Nikkei Forum: Future of Asia, held at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo. "The MIDI region represents the future of Bangladesh," Prof Yunus said. "With access to the Bay of Bengal, we are developing deep-sea ports, highways, and railway links to connect the MIDI region with Nepal, Bhutan, and other parts of South Asia." JICA initially proposed the development of a deep-sea port at Matarbari. The interim government, under Prof Yunus' leadership, is now formulating a comprehensive master plan to transform the entire MIDI region into a hub for ports, logistics, fishing, energy and power. Japan to become important manpower market for Bangladesh: Shafiqul Alam  "Our vision includes building a megacity in the region," Prof Yunus added, noting that airports are also being upgraded to accommodate increased travel demands. Dr Tanaka reaffirmed JICA's commitment to the MIDI development but emphasised the need for accelerated decision-making to expedite project implementation. In response, Prof Yunus announced plans to appoint a senior official to oversee MIDI projects and coordinate efforts with JICA and other potential foreign investors. The Chief Adviser also revealed plans to establish free trade zones within the MIDI area, inviting foreign investors to set up manufacturing plants aimed at export markets. Besides, the government intends to create an exclusive fisheries zone in the region, enabling large fishing vessels to operate. "We need to engage in deep-sea fishing," Prof Yunus explained. "Currently, fishing vessels from neighbouring countries exploit these waters, while our trawlers are too small for deep-sea operations. By developing our capabilities, we can process the catch in the fisheries zone for both export and domestic consumption." Dr Tanaka said this was possibly the first time he had heard a Bangladeshi leader discuss deep-sea fishing initiatives. The two leaders also discussed Bangladesh's reform agenda following the July uprisings, the country's democratic transition, and the Interim Government's anti-corruption efforts. Prof Yunus confirmed that general elections are scheduled to be held between December and June, after which he plans to return to his previous work once an elected government assumes office. Japan to recruit one lakh Bangladeshi workers in five years The Rohingya crisis was also discussed, with the Chief Adviser seeking increased JICA’s support for humanitarian responses. Dr Tanaka expressed JICA's willingness to participate in international efforts addressing the Rohingya crisis.      

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday urged former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to assist Bangladesh in its bid to become a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “As Bangladesh is actively seeking ASEAN membership, Professor Yunus sincerely requested Mahathir Mohamad to look into the matter, leveraging his stature and reputation,” CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters on the outcome of the meeting between Prof Yunus and Mahathir Mohamad held on the sidelines of the Nikkei Forum: 30th Future of Asia. They discussed issues of mutual interest during the 40-minute meeting, including Bangladesh’s desire to become an ASEAN member and Rohingya repatriation. The Press Secretary said Mahathir assured he would always remain a friend of Bangladesh and pledged his support in Bangladesh's efforts to secure ASEAN membership. Bangladesh applied to become a sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN several years ago with the aim of becoming a full member. Malaysia is the current chair of the South East Asian grouping. “We need Malaysia’s support to become an ASEAN member,” the Chief Adviser told Mahathir, who played a key role in establishing ASEAN as a powerful regional body during his time as the Malaysian Prime Minister. After delivering his speech at the Nikkei Forum, the Press Secretary said Prof Yunus met with Dr Mahathir and revisited the memories they shared during their decades-long friendship. Since Mahathir will turn 100 years old on July 10, he said the Chief Adviser wished him an advance 'Happy Birthday' and conveyed his birthday wishes. “I wish you a very happy 100th birthday in advance,” the Chief Adviser told Mahathir, who served as Malaysian Prime Minister for 24 years from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020. The Press Secretary said the two leaders also discussed the historic mass uprising that Bangladesh witnessed last year. He said they talked about the professionalism and sincerity with which Bangladeshis are working around the world, which has earned the country a solid reputation globally. CA Prof Yunus looks forward to meeting with Japanese PM The Chief Adviser said Bangladesh is also thankful to Malaysia, as the country employed hundreds of thousands of Bangladeshi people in the country in various sectors. “In every village of Bangladesh, people know about Malaysia because people travel to the country for employment,” he said. Mahathir said many Bangladeshis also established businesses in Malaysia and were doing well as entrepreneurs. Mahathir recalled how Malaysia thrived due to his Look East policy and asked Bangladesh to undertake similar policies. The Chief Adviser said that Bangladesh was also trying to increase its trade and bilateral relations with Malaysia’s neighbouring country, Indonesia, which, unlike Malaysia, is not a household name in Bangladesh. Professor Yunus also requested Mahathir to use his influence to resolve the Rohingya crisis. The Press Secretary said Prof Yunus invited Dr Mahathir to visit Bangladesh at a time convenient for him. The 99-year-old Mahathir said he would accept the invitation only if he was allowed by his physicians, who had restricted his travel due to his health condition. Bangladeshi peacekeepers continue to uphold Bangladesh’s global image: Prof Yunus Earlier, in his keynote address at the inaugural session of the Nikkei Forum: 30th Future of Asia, the Chief Adviser called on Asian nations to chart a new course of cooperation, inclusion, and sustainability. He also outlined a seven-point agenda aimed at transforming Asia into a hub of shared prosperity by unlocking new opportunities. Prof Yunus arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday afternoon to attend the 30th Nikkei Forum: Future of Asia and hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.     

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday said they are committed to safeguarding the religious freedom of every citizen of the country. He said this when Stephen Schneck, Chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), met him at the State Guest House Jamuna on Monday. Their discussions encompassed the state of religious freedom in Bangladesh, the July 2024 uprising, the interim government's reform agenda, proposed constitutional amendments and the ongoing Rohingya crisis. Will feel guilty if we can't arrange fair polls: Prof Yunus  Prof Yunus underscored the significant role of religion in Bangladesh and reaffirmed the government's dedication to ensuring religious harmony in the country of 171 million people. Regarding allegations of violence against minorities, Dr Yunus emphasised the interim government's commitment to transparency by inviting journalists worldwide to visit Bangladesh and assess the situation firsthand. "Any journalists can visit Bangladesh anytime. Many have visited the country since the uprising," he said. Prof Yunus expressed concern over orchestrated disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting the July uprising and undermining minority rights in the subsequent months. He highlighted massive efforts from external sources, including media from the South Asia region, to portray the uprising as an Islamist extremist movement. "We are striving hard to build religious harmony in the country," he noted, adding that violence targeting the minorities in the South Asia region and the genocide in Palestine exacerbated tensions domestically. Oli, Manna, other political leaders hold talks with Prof Yunus Schneck enquired about the activities of the reform commissions and the proposed constitutional changes following the uprising. Prof Yunus stated that any constitutional amendments would uphold religious freedom and minority rights in Bangladesh. "The consensus-building commission is holding dialogue with political parties over the proposed amendments. Minorities will continue to enjoy the same rights as the majority Muslim population," he assured. The Chief Adviser sought support from the USCIRF to highlight the plight of the Rohingya people and their prolonged persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine State. He mentioned that the United Nations is scheduled to hold a special session on the Rohingya issue in September, following his request. "We need to resolve the crisis -- the sooner, the better. An angry young generation is growing up in the Rohingya camps. We need to provide them a hope," Yunus said.