Economy
Ambassador Mantytsky Highlights Resilience in Bangladesh-Russia Ties
The Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Alexander Mantytsky, expressed the resilience and strength of Bangladesh-Russia relations, both politically and economically, during a DCAB Talk at the Jatiya Press Club. He highlighted the promising outcomes of 2023 and emphasized the potential for further expansion and diversification of mutual interests between the two countries in 2024. The Ambassador noted Bangladesh’s significance as Russia’s second-largest trade partner in South Asia and detailed the economic cooperation, including trade volume and diversification efforts.
Mantytsky mentioned Russia’s contribution to Bangladesh’s food security, particularly in wheat and fertilizers. He expressed Russia’s readiness to expand the list of export items, including edible oils, peas, chickpeas, and lentils. Energy cooperation, especially in enhancing Bangladesh’s energy security, was highlighted, with ongoing projects by Gazprom and proposals for gas evacuation and exploration of new fields.
The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) project was a significant focus, with milestones like the installation of the passive heat removal system at Unit 2. The Ambassador emphasized Russia’s commitment to the safety and efficiency of the NPP project, contributing to Bangladesh’s economic development and energy security. He addressed concerns about certain quarters attempting to undermine the Rooppur NPP project.
The Ambassador touched upon the global context, including the situation in Ukraine, and emphasized Russia’s advocacy for peaceful development based on sovereign equality and indivisible security. The growing global intolerance towards the West’s arrogant manners and Russia’s efforts to maintain respectful dialogue were highlighted. The goodwill visit of the Russian Pacific Fleet to the port of Chittagong and the participation of Russian sailors in Victory Day celebrations in Bangladesh were also mentioned.
Overall, Mantytsky expressed optimism about the ongoing and future collaboration between Russia and Bangladesh across various sectors.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
