Economy
PM Sheikh Hasina Plans Diplomatic Visits to India, China
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to undertake bilateral visits to New Delhi and Beijing within the next three months, marking her initial such engagements following the January 7 national election. These visits aim to strengthen Bangladesh’s ties with India and China, two of Asia’s prominent economic powers.
After the formation of the new government, Prime Minister Hasina attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany in February, showcasing her active participation on the global platform.
Diplomatic sources suggest that PM Hasina’s visit to India is slated after the conclusion of the neighboring country’s national election, which spans seven phases from April 19 to June 1, with vote counting set for June 4.
Pre-election polls indicate a favorable outcome for the coalition led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is widely anticipated to secure reelection.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud confirmed the planned visit to India, indicating it would occur post-election, although specific dates are yet to be finalized.
In January, Prime Minister Modi extended warm congratulations to PM Hasina on her electoral victory, expressing optimism for the continued strengthening of the historically close ties between India and Bangladesh.
The last bilateral engagement between PM Modi and PM Hasina took place during the G-20 Leaders Summit in September 2023, where Bangladesh was the guest country.
PM Modi is anticipated to extend invitations to leaders from South Asian and BIMSTEC countries for his swearing-in ceremony, fostering regional cooperation.
Moreover, PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to China in July was highlighted during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who reiterated China’s commitment to increasing investment in Bangladesh and enhancing bilateral relations.
Ambassador Yao underscored the significance of the visit in advancing trade, investment, and cultural exchange, aligning with Bangladesh’s aspirations for “Vision 2041” and the realization of a “Smart Bangladesh.”
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.
