Asia Headlines: Quick Recap
Turkiye’s quest to future-proof its air force
Turkiye’s quest to future-proof its air force has been hindered by its expulsion from the F-35 program. As a result, Turkiye has been forced to seek alternatives, such as upgrading its F-16 fighter jets and negotiating with a consortium of countries to buy Eurofighter Typhoon jets. However, these efforts have been complicated by Turkiye’s strained relations with Germany and the US.
A demand for sand: how does this impact nature and biodiversity?
Sand is a vital resource used in construction, glassmaking, and other industries. However, the demand for sand is increasing, and this is having a negative impact on the environment. Sand mining is destroying riverbeds and harming biodiversity. New technologies are being used to monitor sand mining and track its impact on the environment. This research is helping to inform better regulation of the sand extraction industry.
Philippines, Australia begin joint sea, air patrols in South China Sea
The Philippines and Australia have begun their first joint sea and air patrols in the South China Sea, marking a deepening of their strategic and defence partnership. The three-day exercises follow discussions by the two countries earlier this year on joint patrols and are aimed at enhancing bilateral interoperability in maritime security and domain awareness.
Chinese military holds training drills near Myanmar border after convoy fire
The Chinese military will conduct combat training drills near the Myanmar border from November 26 to 28, aiming to test rapid manoeuvrability, border sealing, and fire strike capabilities. The training follows a recent convoy fire incident and aims to maintain stability and peace near the border.
China Warns South Korea Not to Politicise Economic Issues
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned his South Korean counterpart not to politicize economic and tech issues, urging both countries to resist the tendency to instrumentalize science and tech issues and securitize trade. China is willing to promote trilateral cooperation with South Korea and Japan to mend frayed ties and strengthen regional partnerships.
Malaysia to allow visa-free entry to Chinese, Indian citizens
Starting December 1, Malaysia will no longer require visas for Chinese and Indian citizens visiting the country. The visa-free entry period is for up to 30 days. This move is part of Malaysia’s efforts to boost tourism and attract investment from India and China.
In Asia, organ donors are ‘overwhelmingly’ women and transplants go mainly to men: study
The gender disparity in organ donation is a global problem, but it is particularly acute in Asia. A new study from India found that 80% of living donors are women, while 80% of recipients are men. This disparity is due to a complex set of social and cultural factors, including the patriarchal social structures that deny women economic freedom and autonomy. Doctors say that the situation can be remedied through counselling and education, but that more studies are needed to truly understand the factors behind the phenomenon.
Af-Pak De/Cypher
27 Nov, 2023
Monday
TTP commander among seven arrested from Punjab
Pakistani security forces arrested seven terrorists, including a senior commander of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), during intelligence-based operations across Punjab province. The arrests were part of a wider crackdown on militants in the country. Read more: ARY News TV
JUI-F to actively participate in general elections 2024
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has decided to actively participate in Pakistan’s upcoming general elections in 2024. The party’s Central General Council met in Peshawar and directed district organizations to finalize candidate recommendations for National and Provincial Assembly constituencies by the 27th of November. Read more: Global News Pakistan
SCCI, CG agree to further strengthen Pak-Iran trade ties
The Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and the Iranian Consulate General in Peshawar have agreed to collaborate to strengthen trade ties between Pakistan and Iran. They will initiate online meetings to connect businesses and explore ways to reduce tariffs and improve trade relations. The SCCI also expressed interest in collaborating on energy projects and urged Iran to facilitate the TAPI gas pipeline project. Read more: Pakistan Today
‘Teachers shortage forces 3,500 Balochistan schools to shut down’
A severe teacher shortage in Balochistan has forced the closure of 3,500 schools, leaving around 0.8 million children of school-going age without education. The provincial Education Department is facing recruitment constraints due to political and departmental issues. Over 300 teachers retire every month, exacerbating the shortage. The provincial government is working to address the crisis by upgrading schools and establishing a model school. Read more: The News International
Pakistan’s current account deficit clocks in at $74m in October
Pakistan’s current account deficit narrowed significantly in October 2023, clocking in at $74 million compared to $849 million in the same month last year. This improvement is attributed to a 18% increase in exports and a 3% decline in imports. Overall, the current account deficit for the first four months of FY24 has shrunk by over $2 billion compared to the same period in FY23. Read more: The Business Recorder
Tuesday
Senate seeks to promote literacy among children
The Senate of Pakistan has passed a resolution calling for urgent government action to promote literacy among children, particularly girls. The resolution highlights the fundamental right of every child to education and calls for gender-neutral, geographically inclusive, and socioeconomically equitable educational opportunities. Read more: The Express Tribune
UK climate study will accelerate green finance in Pakistan
A new UK-supported study identifies critical initiatives to mobilize private sector climate financing in Pakistan. The study provides roadmaps to support Pakistan’s climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience goals. The UK also announced new initiatives to quantify the cost of inaction, streamline climate finance governance, and develop a national green taxonomy. These initiatives will help Pakistan harness private sector investment to address climate change.
Read more: Pakistan Today
Soldier martyred in Waziristan IED attack; 3 terrorists gunned down in KP IBOs
A soldier was martyred in a Waziristan IED attack, while three terrorists were killed in KP IBOs. The military conducted IBOs in Dera Ismail Khan and South Waziristan, killing three terrorists. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the killed terrorists. Read more: The News International
Govt now eyes Rs920b revenue under petroleum levy
Pakistan has increased its petroleum levy collection target to Rs920 billion due to lower-than-expected consumption of petrol and diesel. The government has also reduced its GIDC collection target by Rs10 billion due to various court cases. The FBR’s overall tax collection target remains unchanged at Rs9.415 trillion, but the income tax collection target has been increased by Rs346 billion to compensate for shortfalls against other taxes. Read more: The Express Tribune
IHC declares Imran’s jail trial proceedings in cipher case null and void
The Islamabad High Court has declared null and void Imran Khan’s jail trial proceedings in the cipher case. The court ruled that the proceedings were illegal because they lacked a judicial order. The court also ruled that the government’s decision to conduct the trial in jail was not based on legal grounds. As a result, Imran Khan’s indictments in the case are also null and void. The trial will now be conducted again in open court.
Read more: Dawn
ECP bars political parties, candidates from defaming Army, judiciary in election campaigns
Pakistan’s Election Commission has barred political parties and candidates from defaming the country’s military or judiciary during election campaigns. The ECP has also banned incitement to violence and the use of language that could cause harm. These restrictions come as the former ruling party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, has been critical of the military establishment. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Wednesday
Pharma Bureau urges govt action amid drug shortages
The Pharma Bureau, representing multinational pharmaceutical companies in Pakistan, urges the government to address drug shortages by implementing sustainable policies and adjusting medicine prices to inflation. The pharmaceutical industry has faced substantial losses due to excessive market regulations and delayed price adjustments. The shortage has fuelled the growth of a grey market for smuggled and counterfeit medicines. Read more: The Express Tribune
Pakistan govt disallows sugar export till season-end assessment: Dr Gohar Ejaz
The Pakistani government has decided to halt sugar exports until the end of the current season to ensure a stable and affordable supply for domestic consumers. This decision marks a departure from the previous practice of exporting sugar and then importing it due to local shortages. The government will assess the full production and consumption of sugar before making any further decisions regarding exports. Read more: The Business Recorder
UNHCR raises alarm over Afghans’ exit order
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed concern over Pakistan’s recent directive for undocumented foreigners to leave, including Afghan refugees and those with valid documents. The UNHCR urges Pakistan to implement a screening mechanism to identify individuals in need of international protection and ensure that any return to Afghanistan is voluntary, safe, and dignified. Read more: Dawn
US doesn’t take a position on candidates for political office in Pakistan: Matthew Miller
The United States has announced a $4 million aid package to Pakistan to support counterterrorism efforts. The aid will be used to train police officers, repair and construct police stations, and provide additional equipment. The US also reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals in the US refugee pipeline and urged other countries to uphold their obligations to refugees and asylum seekers. Read more: 92 News HD TV
Recover ‘Missing’ Baloch Students or Appear in Court, IHC Directs Interim P.M. Kakar
The Islamabad High Court has ordered caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar to either appear in court or ensure the recovery of 55 missing Baloch students. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the issue and summoned the ministers for interior, human rights, and defence. Read more: The Pakistan Standard
Pakistani technologies shine at the China International High-Tech Fair
Pakistan showcased its latest technologies and products at the 25th China International High-Tech Fair (CHTF) in Shenzhen. Pakistani exhibitors presented innovative ideas and solutions in VR, software services, and digital media markets. Read more: Pakistan Today
Thursday
Exports to China surge by 70%, reach $368 million
Pakistan’s exports to China witnessed a remarkable 70% surge reaching $368 million in October 2023 compared to the same month last year. This significant growth is attributed to increased exports of agricultural products, including sesame, seafood, and rice. Read more: The Express Tribune
Pakistan applies for BRICS membership: Foreign Office
Pakistan has submitted an application for membership in the BRICS group of nations, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The country’s Foreign Office spokesperson expressed hope that BRICS would accept Pakistan’s application and welcomed the group’s call for an immediate and sustained humanitarian truce in Gaza. Read more: Business Recorder
4 terrorists killed in operation in Balochistan’s Kech: CTD
In a clash between terrorists and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel in Balochistan’s Kech district, four terrorists were killed and several others escaped. Security forces recovered a cache of weapons, including pistols, grenades, and an improvised explosive device (IED)-fitted motorbike. Read more: Dawn
PTI given 20 days’ time to hold intra-party elections
Pakistan’s Election Commission has ordered Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to conduct intra-party elections within 20 days. The ECP ruled that PTI failed to hold transparent elections according to the Constitution. If PTI fails to comply, it may lose its election symbol for future polls. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Aviation ministry website faces triple cyber hacking attempts within 24 hours
The aviation ministry’s website in Pakistan has been subjected to three cyberattacks in 24 hours, rendering it inaccessible. The attacks have resulted in the loss of crucial information from the website. Cyber experts have expressed concerns about Pakistan’s cyber security measures, highlighting the availability of hacked government and private website data on the dark web. Read more: Pakistan Today
Friday
Pak Army, FC North continue provision of basic facilities to masses in far flung areas of KP
The Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps North have installed three hydroelectric turbines in the Alum area of Buner district, providing uninterrupted power supply to 1,500 households. This initiative is part of the ongoing effort to bring basic facilities to people living in remote areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Read more: Radio Pakistan
PML-N accused of suppressing PTI: Asad Qaiser
PTI leader Asad Qaiser accused PML-N of oppressing PTI and creating an unfair election environment. He criticized the opposition’s ‘selected’ label, claiming the opposition itself is “selected plus.” He warned against holding elections in the current state, suggesting a notification for Nawaz Sharif to become PM instead. Read more: Pakistan Today
Pakistan ready to airlift, treat injured Palestinians in Gaza: FM Jilani
Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani announced that Pakistan is prepared to airlift and treat injured Palestinians, expressing frustration at Israel’s obstruction of humanitarian aid. Pakistan, alongside Saudi Arabia, played a pivotal role in OIC sessions addressing the Gaza crisis and co-sponsored a resolution at the United Nations. Read more: ARY News
Record-breaking streak continues at PSX
The KSE-100 index maintained its upward journey on Friday to close at yet another record peak. The index gathered pace initially and hit an intraday high of 660 points. However, fear kicked in afterwards as investors preferred to book some of their gains before the end of trading. The index closed at 59,086.35 points after gaining 186.51 points or 0.32 per cent from the preceding session. Read more: Dawn
Saturday
Pakistan defeats India to secure UNESCO vice-chair for 2023-25 term
Pakistan has secured the vice-chair position of UNESCO’s Executive Board for the 2023-2025 term, defeating India in the elections held at the 218th Session of the UNESCO Executive Board in Paris. Pakistan received 38 votes, while India received 18. Pakistan expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and pledged to carry out its responsibilities with commitment and respect. Read more: Radio Pakistan
Pakistan Railways urges China for swift action on ML-1
Pakistan Railways has urged China to expedite the ML-1 (Mainline-1) project, a transformative railway upgrade that will revolutionize Pakistan’s transportation sector and boost freight revenue. The 1733-kilometer project will double the track from Karachi to Peshawar and introduce modern signaling and telecom systems. Read more: ARY News
Arrest warrant issued for PML-N leader Marriyum Aurangzeb in terrorism case
A non-bailable arrest warrant has been issued for former Pakistani Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb for failing to appear in court for a terrorism case filed against her in 2022. The case alleges that Aurangzeb and others used religion to spread hatred against former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Seven MoUs on investment with Kuwait approved
Pakistan and Kuwait have approved seven MoUs for investment worth $10 billion in various sectors, including water reservoirs, mining, IT, and food security. The caretaker prime minister has directed for smooth and transparent execution of these projects. Read more: Business Recorder
China, Pakistan: Authorities to close Khunjerab border crossing between Gilgit-Baltistan and Xinjiang
The Khunjerab border crossing between Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan and China’s Xinjiang Province will be closed from December 1 to March 31 due to safety concerns related to harsh winter weather conditions. This closure is likely to disrupt cross-border transport and cause shipping delays for businesses. Read more: Crisis 24
Sunday
Army’s two ex-officers convicted of sedition
Pakistani army officers Adil Farooq Raja and Haider Raza Mehdi have been convicted of sedition and espionage and sentenced to 14 and 12 years in prison, respectively. The two officers, who are currently residing outside of Pakistan, were critics of the army’s leadership and are accused of inciting rebellion and attacks on military installations. Read more: Dawn
Pak-EU diplomats agree to strengthen cooperation under Strategic Engagement Plan
Pakistani and European Union diplomats have agreed to strengthen cooperation under the Strategic Engagement Plan. The two sides discussed collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including science, technology, and innovation. They also agreed to enhance cooperation on international developments. Read more: Pakistan Today
Pakistan, Sweden hold bilateral political consultations on trade, investment
Officials from Pakistan and Sweden held bilateral political consultations, discussing trade, investment, education, and cooperation on regional and global issues. Both sides expressed confidence in the trajectory of their relationship and agreed to continue strengthening ties. Read more: Pakistan Today
Pakistan faces ‘large’ voter gender gap, Human Rights Watch says
Pakistan has a significant gender gap in voter registration, with 10 million more men registered than women. This disparity limits women’s political participation and representation in the country. Despite legal protections, women face barriers to obtaining voter ID cards and cultural obstacles to voting. The Pakistani government should take action to ensure women’s equal participation in the electoral process. Read more: Arab News
Pakistan, China committed to cooperation on sustainable development of rivers: Ambassador Hashmi
Pakistan and China have signed a cooperation agreement to focus on the sustainable development and preservation of their rivers, the Indus and Yangtze. The two countries will explore the challenges and opportunities faced by river cultures, ecosystems, and economies. Read more: Pakistan Today
Decypher Opinion
Why Western countries share the blame for the plight of 1.7 million Afghans being deported from Pakistan
This opinion piece is originally from The Conversation
The deportation of Afghan refugees in Pakistan is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While the Pakistani government cites security concerns as the primary reason for the deportations, there is evidence to suggest that populist pressures and economic factors are also playing a role. Additionally, the failure of Western countries to keep their promises to Afghan refugees has left many in limbo, with little hope of resettlement or support. The situation for Afghan women and girls is particularly dire, as they face severe restrictions under Taliban rule. Western countries must take urgent action to support Afghan women’s rights defenders and provide assistance to Afghan refugees. Read more: The Conversation
Infographic
Source: Business Recorder
Pakistan experienced a 7.1% YoY growth in foreign direct investment (FDI), amounting to $524.7 million in the first four months of FY24. However, the FDI climate remains challenging due to political instability and structural issues, hindering significant investment. China continues to be the major contributor to FDI, primarily in the power sector, presenting an opportunity for growth amid global uncertainties, particularly in renewable energy. Despite recent initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council, concerns persist about the military’s involvement impacting investment objectives.
Fact of the week!!!
Bangladesh De/Cypher
27 Nov, 2023
Monday
Basel Anti-Money Laundering Index: Bangladesh makes slight improvement
Bangladesh has made progress in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, moving up five spots to rank 46th in the Basel AML Index 2023. However, the country remains a high-risk zone, with a score of 5.80. Experts attribute this to rampant money laundering activities, particularly through over-invoicing, under-invoicing, and the growing hundi system. Read more: The Daily Star
About 750,000 law enforcement personnel to be deployed
Bangladesh is preparing for the 12th parliamentary election and plans to deploy nearly 750,000 law enforcement personnel to maintain law and order during the voting process. The exact number of personnel and their deployment duration is yet to be finalised. The Election Commission has also discussed a tentative budget of Tk 10.70 billion for the law enforcement agencies, which may be revised to Tk 6-7 million. Read more: Prothom Alo
Conviction of BNP leaders spikes ahead of election
Bangladesh’s main opposition party, the BNP, is facing an increased number of convictions and jail terms for its leaders and activists ahead of the January 2024 election. Since the announcement of the election schedule on November 15, 184 opposition members have been convicted, including potential candidates. The BNP claims that these cases are politically motivated and part of a larger effort to suppress dissent. Read more: New Age
PM seeks co-op on tourism with Maldives, Nepal
Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized the importance of cooperation among Bangladesh, Maldives, and Nepal in promoting tourism and mutual benefits. She acknowledged Bangladesh’s tourism potential, particularly in Cox’s Bazar, and commended the contributions of Bangladeshi workers in Maldives. Read more: The Daily Sun
2nd-day hartal: Commuters use public transport with fear
The second day of the countrywide hartal, called by opposition parties, is underway with a visible impact on public transport. Commuters are using public transport with fear due to the risk of violence and arson attacks. Law enforcement personnel have been deployed in Dhaka and elsewhere to maintain order. Read more: The Daily Observer BD
Tuesday
BNP’s vice chairman Habibur Rahman arrested
Habibur Rahman, vice chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and advisor to BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, was arrested by RAB from Mirpur DOHS area in the capital on Tuesday for contempt of court. He was summoned by the court but failed to appear, leading to his arrest. Read more: Rising BD
Process on to accept resignations of 3 technocrats in cabinet, 4 PM’s advisers
Bangladesh’s Cabinet Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain announced that the resignation process for three technocrat ministers and four prime ministerial advisers is underway. These officials submitted their resignations upon the prime minister’s request. The resignations will become effective after the completion of the approval process. Read more: The Dhaka Tribune
Will Facebook remain closed on election-day?
The Election Commission of Bangladesh is considering shutting down Facebook on election day to prevent the spread of false propaganda. A final decision will be made after a meeting with Facebook authorities. Read more: Digi Bangla Tech
Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, UK intervene ICJ’s Rohingya case
Six countries have intervened in the case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The countries allege that Myanmar’s security forces have committed genocide against the Rohingya people. They are calling for Myanmar to be held accountable for its actions. Read more: Somoy News
Seventeen China-funded projects move at snail’s pace
Seventeen China-funded infrastructure projects in Bangladesh are progressing at a snail’s pace, with only three completed in the past seven years. The remaining projects are at the initial stage due to geopolitical considerations and a new contractor appointment process. Bangladesh has prioritized 11 projects and dropped five, while the fate of six others remains uncertain. Read more: Prothom Alo
Dhaka terms OHCHR report on human rights ‘false, fabricated’
Bangladesh has strongly criticized the UN Human Rights Office for releasing a press release on the country’s human rights situation. The government says the press release is “false, fabricated” and that the SRs have been “selective” in their reporting. Read more: The Daily Sun
Wednesday
Call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to stop genocidal war
The business community in Bangladesh urged the UN and world leaders to call for an immediate ceasefire and resolution to the conflict in Gaza. They condemned the Israeli attacks on Gaza, which they described as a genocidal war, and expressed support for the Palestinians’ right to self-determination. Read more: The Daily Sun
UN adopts resolution on natural fibre of Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s resolution on natural plant fibres was unanimously adopted by the UN. It urges member states to promote the use of natural fibres as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials. Bangladesh emphasized the resolution’s contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and mitigating climate change. Read more: The Dhaka Tribune
Bangladesh Election Commission invites 38 countries, groups to observe national polls
Bangladesh’s Election Commission has invited election management bodies from 38 countries and organizations to observe the upcoming national elections on January 7, 2024. The deadline for applications from foreign observers has been extended to December 7. Read more: BD News 24
IRI, NDI to send US team to observe polls violence
The International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI) will send a team of five experts to Bangladesh to assess election-related violence. The team will stay in Bangladesh for six to eight weeks and will conduct a thematic analysis of different types of election violence. They will also evaluate the drivers and implications of election violence and provide recommendations to reduce violence in future elections. Read more: The Daily Star
Patients suffer as saline out of market, prices abnormally high
Hospitals in Rajshahi are facing a shortage of injectable saline solutions, which is making it difficult to treat patients with cold-related diseases, especially children. Some pharmacies are selling saline at abnormally high prices. The shortage is due to a fall in supply from pharmaceutical companies. Read more: New Age
Thursday
AL leaders, univ teachers among 371 citizens condemn ‘conspiracy to foil elections’
371 Bangladeshi citizens, including Awami League leaders and university professors, condemned attempts to obstruct the country’s elections. They urged the public to remain vigilant against actions that undermine the constitution, development, and state. Read more: New Age
686 establishments, vehicles vandalised-torched in 25 days: Police
In Bangladesh, 686 establishments and vehicles were vandalized or torched during the BNP’s 25-day hartal and blockade, resulting in six deaths, including that of a policeman. The police attributed the violence to the BNP’s ongoing movement and its subversive tactics. Read more: Prothom Alo
Bangladesh-India FS-level talks in New Delhi on Friday
Bangladesh and India will hold Foreign Secretary-level talks in New Delhi on Friday to discuss strengthening ties and maintaining uninterrupted relations. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen will meet his Indian counterpart, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, to discuss issues of mutual interest, including efforts to ensure a smooth relationship before, during, and after the upcoming Bangladesh election. Read more: The Financial Express
WB to provide $1.1b to Bangladesh; 5 deals inked
Bangladesh and the World Bank signed five agreements worth $1.1 billion to support early childhood development, secondary education, riverbank protection, urban health, and gas distribution efficiency. These projects aim to achieve resilient and inclusive growth, aligning with Bangladesh’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2031 and a high-income country by 2041. Read more: The Daily Observer BD
Transport owners count Tk12,374cr loss
Bangladesh’s transport sector has been hit hard by the ongoing nationwide hartal and blockade programs, with losses exceeding Tk 12,374 crore. Transport owners have been forced to operate fewer vehicles due to safety concerns and a decline in passenger numbers. The government has pledged to provide compensation for damaged vehicles, but transport workers remain cautious about operating long-haul buses. Read more: The Business Post BD
Friday
Bangladesh ambassador to Russia holds meeting with Ivanovo Governor Sergeevich
Bangladesh Ambassador to Russia Kamrul Ahsan met with Ivanovo Governor Voskresensky Stanislav Sergeevich to discuss economic, commercial, and educational cooperation between the two countries. The ambassador highlighted Bangladesh’s development under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and sought cooperation in recruiting skilled workers from Bangladesh for the garment industry in Ivanovo. Read more: The Daily Sun
199 BNP people jailed in a day
199 BNP leaders and activists were sentenced to jail for violence during political programs. The convictions were made in four cases filed with Lalbagh, Kotwali, Uttara East, and Bangshal police stations in Dhaka. The BNP called the cases politically motivated. Read more: New Age
Many BNP leaders preparing for polls: AL
The ruling Awami League party in Bangladesh is claiming that many leaders of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party are preparing to participate in the upcoming parliamentary election. Read more: New Age
BNP is trying to put economic pressure: PM
Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of trying to put economic pressure on the country. She said that the BNP is making various conspiracies to destroy the development and progress of the country. She also said that the BNP is supported by foreign powers and that they are trying to overthrow the government. She urged the BNP to participate in the upcoming elections and let the people decide who is running the country. Read more: Naya Diganta
Bangladesh-India Foreign Secretary meeting, discussion on border-water
Bangladesh and India held a meeting to discuss border and security issues, economic relations, communication, electricity, water distribution, development cooperation, and regional and multilateral issues. Read more: Daily Ittefaq
Saturday
12 people died in one day due to dengue
Dengue death toll in Bangladesh continues to rise, with 12 more people succumbing to the mosquito-borne disease in the past 24 hours. This brings the total number of dengue deaths to 1,595 this year, surpassing all records of the past 24 years. Read more: Daily Ittefaq
India wants regional status Bangladesh Teesta Treaty
India and Bangladesh held a Foreign Secretary-level meeting in Delhi to discuss various bilateral issues, including regional stability, water sharing of common rivers, trade, and security. Bangladesh sought India’s cooperation on the Rohingya crisis and visa issuance. India expressed satisfaction with the bilateral relations and reiterated its commitment to strengthen ties. Read more: Naya Diganta
BNP still has a chance to come to the polls
The Awami League is still open to the possibility of the BNP participating in the upcoming elections. General Secretary Obaidul Quader said that the party is prioritising popularity when finalizing its candidate list, and that those who have lost acceptance with the people will not be nominated. Read more: Kaler Kantho
Bangladesh, WB sign 5 financing agreement
Bangladesh and the World Bank signed five financing agreements worth over $1.1 billion to support the country’s development in various sectors, including early childhood development, secondary education, riverbank protection, urban health, and gas distribution efficiency. Read more: Business Post BD
Laundering crores of rupees through app-based online gambling in Khulna
Despite anti-gambling efforts, app-based online gambling is flourishing in Khulna, Bangladesh. Gamblers are using apps like One X Bet, Bet Twenty-Four, and Seven X Bet to launder crores of rupees. Law enforcement has arrested some gamblers but the masterminds remain elusive. Read more: Daily Manab Zamin
Sunday
600 crore loss to fishermen in Ramgati
Due to Cyclone Midhili, 300 fishermen families in Ramgati, Laxmipur, have lost their boats and are living in inhumane conditions. The estimated cost of the damage is around 600 crore rupees. The government has allocated rice to the victims, but it is grossly inadequate. The union parishad chairmen are trying to help the victims in various ways. Read more: Daily Manab Zamin
BGB-BSF to increase vigilance on border ahead of polls
Bangladesh and India have agreed to strengthen security along their shared border to prevent sabotage during the upcoming Bangladeshi national elections. The two countries’ border forces, BGB and BSF, will conduct strict surveillance. Foreign Secretary Masood Bin Momen recently mentioned the seizure of several consignments of bomb-making materials from the border. Read more: Naya Diganta
Foreign secretary talks to Indian media about Bangladesh’s take on US ‘interference’ in domestic affairs
Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen responded to concerns about US interference in Bangladesh’s domestic affairs, stating that Bangladesh will remain engaged with the US and explain its intentions. He emphasised that elections are Bangladesh’s internal affair and will be held freely and fairly as per the Election Commission’s schedule. Read more: The Business Standard
Ruling Awami League has announced nominations for 298 Seats
The Awami League has announced nominations for 298 out of 300 seats in the upcoming national assembly elections. More than 60 MPs of the party dropped out this time, while around 100 new faces have been nominated. Candidates for Narayanganj-5 and Kushtia-2 constituencies have not been announced yet. Read more: Daily Ittefaq
Tobacco industry interfere in Bangladesh’s policies most: report
Bangladesh has the highest tobacco industry interference score in South Asia, according to a new report. The government is yet to pass the draft amendment to the tobacco control law, despite facing opposition from tobacco companies. Experts say that the government must divest its share in tobacco companies and ban CSR programs to protect public health. Read more: New Age
Decypher Opinion
Is Climate Change Exacerbating Gender Inequality in Bangladesh?
Climate change is exacerbating gender inequality in Bangladesh, particularly in terms of access to resources and decision-making power.
With over one-third of Bangladesh’s land area at less than 5 meters above sea level and subject to torrential monsoons and cyclones, the country is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. The report “State of Gender Equality and Climate Change in Bangladesh” throws light on the negative implications, and more importantly, establishes how women experience these impacts differently from men. Societal norms and gender roles expose Bangladeshi women to greater climate-related risks. In 1991, for example, 90% of deaths caused by a cyclone in the country were women and children, primarily because most did not or were unable to move to cyclone shelters due to their domestic responsibilities.
Climate change aggravates women’s existing societal disadvantages, further deepening gender inequality. For instance, declining agricultural productivity due to climate stressors can multiply burdens on rural women, who are traditionally responsible for household food provision and water collection. Alarmingly, women in some villages of southwestern coastal Bangladesh have to walk 6–12 km daily to obtain the water required for their households due to climate change-induced changes to water availability, thereby causing them much physical strain and taking up significant chunks of their productive time. The report reveals the systemic neglect of women’s roles and their specific vulnerabilities in the face of climate change. The fact that 59.7% of employed women are engaged in agriculture, yet only 18.6% are formally recognised as agricultural labour, underlines the gender inequality prevalent in significant sectors. With climate change intensifying the pressures on agriculture due to fluctuating weather patterns and increased risk of floods and droughts, women in agriculture are poised to bear disproportionate burdens. The report clearly illustrates the substantial and often overlooked gender implications of climate change.
This problem is exacerbated by entrenched systemic gender inequalities that restrict women’s economic, educational, and social opportunities. Moreover, women’s participation in decision-making processes related to climate change management remains limited due to traditional norms and socio-economic constraints. The intensifying climate change challenges in Bangladesh therefore not only pose a threat to its development trajectories but also risk widening socio-economic gender disparities. Now more than ever, there is a need to recognise the intricacies of the climate-gender dynamics to ensure that climate policy response is informed, inclusive, and equitable.
Infographic
The United States Embassy reports a record-breaking influx of Bangladeshi students during the 2022-2023 academic year, with 13,563 students choosing U.S. institutions—an impressive 28% increase from the previous year. Among them, undergraduate enrolment surged by over 50%, totalling 2,500 students, while nearly 10,000 graduate students ranked Bangladesh seventh globally for such enrolment. Over the past decade, Bangladeshi students in the U.S. have grown over 300%, from 3,314 in 2011-2012 to the current figure.
Fact of the Week!!!
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