Category: DIPLOMACY

Bangladesh has formally demanded India stop pushing people across their shared border after reports emerged that around 300 individuals, including Rohingyas, were forced into Bangladesh between May 7-9. In a diplomatic letter sent May 8, Bangladesh warned these actions violate bilateral agreements and threaten security. Border Guard Bangladesh has increased patrols as officials claim India is targeting remote areas difficult to monitor. Bangladesh insists it will only accept confirmed citizens through proper channels.READ FULL

Three Russian Navy warships arrived at Chattogram Port for a four-day goodwill visit. The ships – “Rezkiy,” “Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov,” and “Pechenga” – were welcomed by Bangladesh Navy officials. During their stay, Russian naval personnel will meet with Bangladeshi counterparts, visit local sites, and participate in exchange activities before departing on April 16.READ FULL

The US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller has stated that there is no excuse for violence in Bangladesh, emphasizing that those responsible should be held accountable. This comes in response to questions about the interim government’s decision not to file cases against participants in the July-August mass uprising. Miller also affirmed the US commitment to religious freedom in Bangladesh. Human rights activist ZI Khan Panna criticized the government’s decision, stating that criminal offenses cannot be granted impunity.READ FULL

A Chinese naval fleet, including ships Qi Jiguang and Jing Gangshan, arrived at Chattogram Port for a four-day goodwill visit. This marks the first Chinese naval visit to Bangladesh in four years and the first foreign naval fleet to visit since the interim government’s establishment. The visit will include bilateral meetings, ship open days, and a deck reception to enhance cooperation between the Chinese and Bangladeshi navies. Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen welcomed the fleet and met with Bangladeshi naval commanders and port authorities.READ FULL

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed willingness to invest in solar panel plants in Bangladesh during a meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the UN General Assembly. China aims to deepen trade and economic ties with Bangladesh, encouraging cooperation between companies of both nations. Yi also mentioned China’s zero tariff access for LDCs’ goods and increased medical support. Yunus welcomed the investment proposal and called for Chinese manufacturers to relocate to Bangladesh, emphasizing the potential for closer relations and technological collaboration between the two countries.READ FULL

Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain met with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New York during the 79th UN General Assembly. This marks the first high-level contact between the two countries since the recent change in Bangladesh’s government. The diplomats discussed bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest, focusing on strengthening long-standing ties between the neighboring nations. Both countries’ foreign affairs offices announced the meeting on social media, emphasizing the ongoing partnership and the importance of the discussion.READ FULL

Bangladesh has requested the Maldives to recruit Bangladeshi nurses during a meeting between Maldives High Commissioner Shiuneen Rasheed and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. They discussed strengthening cooperation in health, fisheries, and tourism sectors, as well as exploring trade potential. The Maldives acknowledged Bangladesh as an important regional partner and the contributions of Bangladeshi migrant workers. The Maldives also plans to start regularizing undocumented Bangladeshi expatriates living there soon.READ FULL

Russia has agreed to provide 30,000 tonnes of potassium fertilizer to Bangladesh free of cost, as announced by Russian Ambassador Alexander Mantytskiy during a meeting with Home and Agriculture Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowhdury. Bangladesh thanked Russia and requested an additional free shipment of wheat to address food security concerns amid flooding. The adviser also asked for continued uninterrupted supply of wheat and fertilizer, citing previous payments and current economic challenges. The Russian ambassador requested a formal written statement of Bangladesh’s needs for consideration. READ FULL

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus sought UK support to recover laundered money and Japan’s financial aid for reconstruction. In separate meetings, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke and Japanese Ambassador Iwama Kiminori pledged to assist Bangladesh. Discussions covered democratic future, youth engagement, and strengthening bilateral relations. Japan expressed readiness to support Bangladesh’s development, address Rohingya issues, and boost economic cooperation.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry has recalled seven ambassadors on contractual postings and five other officials from overseas missions. This move is part of the interim government’s effort to make personnel changes across ministries. The recalled ambassadors were serving in the US, Russia, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Germany, and UAE. Additionally, officials from embassies in Washington, Ottawa, and the consulate in New York have been ordered to return. The ministry issued separate orders for these recalls today. Daily Star

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina is meeting Chinese PM Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The talks focus on Rohingya issues, trade, and investments. About 20 cooperation agreements are expected to be signed. This visit, Hasina’s fourth to China, may elevate bilateral relations to a “comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.” The meetings follow Hasina’s recent trip to India and come ahead of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic ties next year.Source:Daily Star