Economy
Ambassador Yao Emphasizes Bangladeshi Youth’s Role in Development
Ambassador Yao Wen of China to Bangladesh emphasized the recent strides in economic and social development made by Bangladesh, attributing much of this progress to the active involvement of its 45 million youth population. He hailed them as the driving force behind initiatives like “Smart Bangladesh” and “Sonar Bangla.” Speaking at the “Ramadan Gathering with China” event at the Embassy, Ambassador Yao expressed China’s keen interest in bolstering youth exchanges between the two nations to fuel future growth and cooperation.
Over 150 youth representatives from various sectors participated in the event, including government, political parties, military, universities, enterprises, media, and foreign missions. Ambassador Yao underscored China’s commitment to global economic resilience and highlighted its efforts toward building a shared future for mankind through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.
He expressed hope that the event would deepen understanding of Chinese insights and contributions among Bangladeshi youth, fostering stronger ties between the two countries. The Ambassador extended his best wishes for the sacred month of Ramadan.
During the event, four young diplomats from the Embassy delivered presentations, discussing topics ranging from the Belt and Road Initiative to China’s economic development and cultural exchanges. They also addressed misconceptions about Xinjiang, inviting Bangladeshi youth to visit and experience its development firsthand.
The program included a quiz session, where participants engaged with questions related to Belt and Road cooperation, China’s policies towards Xinjiang, and its modernization efforts. Gifts were awarded to those who answered correctly, fostering interactive dialogue and learning.
The event concluded with a group photo, with participants extending Ramadan greetings. The “Ramadan Gathering with China” program aims to strengthen friendly exchanges and cooperation between the youth of Bangladesh and China, reflecting the enduring partnership between the two nations.
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.
