Staff Correspondent

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader questioned why a journalist would need to enter a central bank complex when all necessary information is available on the bank's website.
&ldquo;Which country in the world allows open entry to the central bank? Everything is available on the website. You need information. Why would you enter inside?&rdquo; said Quader, referring to the restriction on journalists&rsquo; entry to the Bangladesh Bank.
He made this comment at a press conference at the Awami League President&rsquo;s Dhanmondi office in Dhaka on Saturday (May 18).
When asked if the government was worried about the depletion of reserves from $48 billion to $13 billion, Quader said, &ldquo;Who told you that the reserves have declined to $13 billion? Did the media report so? We have our information.&rdquo;
When journalists mentioned that the Bangladesh Bank Governor stated that the reserves had declined to $13 billion, Quader replied, &ldquo;Then you should ask the governor how the reserves reached this stage. We have no idea. What we know is that the reserves are hovering between $19 billion and $20 billion.&rdquo;
In reference to the restriction on journalists' entry to the central bank, Quader said, &ldquo;Can anyone enter India&rsquo;s federal bank (Reserve Bank of India)? Why would they enter? Everything is available on the website. You need to know why you would have to enter the complex.&rdquo;
When informed that economists had expressed concern over the depletion of reserves to $13 billion, Quader said, &ldquo;How much were the reserves when we started our journey after independence? Did we have dollars? How much did the BNP leave for us when we took power? Only three billion. Now we have $19-$20 billion; is that a poor amount? Additionally, our export income and remittance are on the rise. The reserves will ultimately increase if earnings from exports and remittances rise.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t consider one thing&mdash;how Bangladesh has made so much development and progress. This became possible due to the continuity and stability in the government, leading to development and achievements that have taken the world by surprise.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The people of this country are very close to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She stood by the side of the frustrated people of this country and united the Awami League,&rdquo; Quader said.

Where on Earth is access to central bank open: Quader

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday said her party &ndash; Bangladesh Awami League (AL) is the strongest, largest and the most credible political party in the country now.
&ldquo;Today Awami League is the strongest and biggest organisation in Bangladesh. It's a reality. The most acceptable party among the people is the Awami League,&rdquo; she said.
The AL president, Sheikh Hasina, made the remarks when her party leaders and activists came to Ganabhaban to greet her on her historic Homecoming Day.
Recalling her election as the President of Bangladesh Awami League in her absence before her return to home on May 17, 1981, the PM said she had no experience to lead a big party like AL at that time. It was definitely a big responsibility for her to lead AL, she added.
She said the party has overcome conspiracies on many occasions. "Conspiracies are hatched every time and we overcome them. We have to keep it up,&rdquo; she added.
Recollecting the day she had returned home ending six years of forced exile, the AL president said she had been welcomed by hundreds of thousands of people defying the storm and rain on that day.
She said when she returned to Bangladesh in 1981, the country was then run by war criminals and the killers of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with most of his family members.
The prime minister said she returned to the country despite knowing she might have been killed as she had trust in the countrymen and leaders and activists of Awami League.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;d returned home with a conviction as the desire with which the Father of the Nation made the country independent was not fulfilled. Rather the condition of the people deteriorated further,&rdquo; she said.
She said now her government has been able to implement at least to some extent the desire and the spirit with which Bangabandhu made the country independent.
&ldquo;All my strength and courage I&rsquo;ve got from my parents,&rdquo; said Hasina.
Talking about AL&rsquo;s role in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic, she said, &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been able to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic as we have a well-organised political party and its associate bodies.&rdquo;
She said no other political party except the Awami League stood beside the people during the period of Covid-19 pandemic and many AL leaders and workers sacrificed their lives in doing so.
"No other organisation except Awami League does make this sacrifice for the people of Bangladesh," said Sheikh Hasina, who has been steering the Awami League since 1981. The PM said her government has been able to change the country. &ldquo;But we&rsquo;ve to progress further in future,&rdquo; she added.
Earlier in the morning, AL leaders and activists led by its General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader greeted their party chief with flowers at Ganabhaban, marking her 44th homecoming Day.
Leaders and activists of the associate and friendly bodies of the Awami League were also present at that time. &nbsp;

Today AL is the strongest party: PM Hasina on homecoming day

The BNP has expelled 55 grassroots leaders for participating in the third phase of the upcoming upazila elections defying the party's directive.
Four leaders were expelled on Thursday (16 May) and 51 leaders on Wednesday (15 May), according to a press release signed by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi issued on Thursday.
It said that these leaders have been dismissed from all party positions, including primary membership, as outlined by party rules.
So far, BNP has expelled 204 grassroots leaders for taking part in the upazila elections.

BNP expels 55 more leaders

Desk Report

The 44th homecoming day of Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is being observed today (17 May). &nbsp; The ruling Awami League (AL) has taken elaborate programmes marking the 44th homecoming day of Prime Minister and AL President Sheikh Hasina. &nbsp; As part of the programmes, the party leaders will greet the premier, the eldest daughter of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, at her Ganabhaban residence at 9 am on Friday. &nbsp; A discussion will be held at Dhaka District AL Bhaban in the city's Tejgaon area at 3:30 pm as AL Presidium Member Engineer Mosharraf Hossain will chair it. National leaders and intellectuals will address the meeting. &nbsp; Special doa and prayers will also be offered at mosques, temples, churches and pagodas to mark the day. Doa will be offered at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque after Jummah prayers. &nbsp; Christian Community will hold special prayer at Mirpur Baptist Church at 9 am on the day while Buddhist Community at International Buddhist Monastery in the city's Merul Badda at 10 am and Hindu Community at Dhakeshwari National Temple at 11.30 am. &nbsp; AL's relief and social welfare subcommittee has also taken elaborate programmes to observe the day. &nbsp; As part of the programmes, food will be distributed among the orphans of Tejgaon's Rahmate Alam Islam Mission orphanage today. &nbsp; Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal will attend the programme. &nbsp; On May 17, food will be distributed among the orphans of Azimpur Salimullah Muslim Atimkhana, Salimullah Road's Atimkhana in Mohammadpur, Sobhanbag Masjid Atimkhana and Badda Beraid Rahim Ullah Atimkhana. &nbsp; Food will also be distributed among the orphans of the atimkhanas (orphanages) adjacent to Hazrat Shahjalal (R) Mazar (shrine) in Sylhet, Hazrat Shah Amanat (R) and Garib Ullah Shah (R) in Chattogram on the same day. &nbsp; The members of the subcommittee will also distribute food among orphans in different districts across the country. &nbsp; On May 18, Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud will distribute food among the inmates of Chattogram's Kadam Mobarak Orphanage.
On May 17 in 1981, Sheikh Hasina returned to the country after a long exile. &nbsp; Boarding on an aircraft of the Indian Airlines, Awami League President Sheikh Hasina reached the then Kurmitola Airport in Dhaka from the Indian capital of New Delhi via Kolkata at 4.30pm on that day. &nbsp; Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was brutally killed along with most of his family members on 15 August in 1975 and his two daughters-- Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana --- luckily escaped the brutal assassination as they stayed abroad. &nbsp; In a national council session of the Awami League on 14, 15 and 16 February in 1981, Sheikh Hasina was elected as party president in her absence and then she returned to the country on 17 May. &nbsp; A large number of people had gathered outside the Kurmitola Airport in Dhaka to receive Sheikh Hasina on that day. They had come from every corner of the country and the whole thoroughfare from the Farmgate point to Kurmitola in the city was full of jubilant crowds. &nbsp; After a long hovering over the airport, an aircraft of Indian Airlines carrying Sheikh Hasina from New Delhi via Kolkata, touched the runway at 4:30 pm. &nbsp; "I have returned to the country not to become a leader of the Awami League, rather to participate in the struggle for freedom by staying beside the people," said the AL president in a heart touching reception awarded by nearly 1.5 million people at the airport at that time. &nbsp; She added: "I want to stay beside you as your sister, as your daughter, and as a worker of Awami League, who believes in the ideals of Bangabandhu." &nbsp;

Sheikh Hasina's homecoming day today

Bangladesh has undergone significant development, achievement, and modernization since Sheikh Hasina's return to the country on May 17, 1981, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said on Thursday.
"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been in power for the last 15 years. There is no similarity between Bangladesh now and 15 years ago. There is a night and day difference between Dhaka today and 15 years ago. The country has transformed in terms of development, achievement, and modernization. And the driving force behind this transformation is Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," said Quader.
He made these remarks at a food distribution programme at Rahmat-E-Alam Islam Mission &amp; Islam Mission Orphanage in Tejgaon, Dhaka. The Awami League&rsquo;s sub-committee on Relief and Social Welfare organised the programme to celebrate Sheikh Hasina's homecoming day.
Quader said, "Everything, including democracy, the ideology of independence, and the historic March 7 speech, was sent into exile following the murder of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15. We regained them through the homecoming of Sheikh Hasina."
"It has been possible to bring the war criminals and the murderers of Bangabandhu to justice due to the return of Sheikh Hasina," Quader added.
He further noted, "We have established an independent Election Commission by enacting a law in parliament and built the metro rail and constructed the Padma Bridge with our own financing."

Sheikh Hasina's homecoming sparked Bangladesh's transformation: Quader

The ruling Awami League (AL) has taken elaborate programmes marking the 44th homecoming day of Prime Minister and AL President Sheikh Hasina that falls on May 17.
As part of the programmes, the party leaders will greet the premier, the eldest daughter of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, at her Gonobhaban residence here at 9 am on Friday.
A discussion will be held at Dhaka District AL Bhaban in city's Tejgaon area at 3:30 pm with AL Presidium Member Engineer Mosharraf Hossain in the chair.
National leaders and intellectuals will address the meeting. Special doa and prayers will also be offered at mosques, temples, churches and pagodas to mark the day. Doa will be offered at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque after Jummah prayers.
Christian Community will hold special prayer at Mirpur Baptist Church at 9 am on the day while Buddhist Community at International Buddhist Monastery in city's Merul Badda at 10 am and Hindu Community at Dhakeshwari National Temple at 11.30 am.
On May 17, 1981, Sheikh Hasina returned home after a long exile. Boarding on an aircraft of the Indian Airlines, Sheikh Hasina reached the then Kurmitola Airport here from the Indian capital of New Delhi via Kolkata at 4.30pm on that day. &nbsp; Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was brutally killed along with most of his family members on August 15, 1975 and his two daughters-- Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana --- luckily escaped the carnage as they were abroad. &nbsp; In a national council session of Awami League on February 14, 15 and 16 in 1981, Sheikh Hasina was elected as party president in her absence and then she returned to the country on May 17.
AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader asked the party leaders and workers and its associate bodies across the country to take programmes in line with the central ones.

AL programmes on Sheikh Hasina's homecoming day

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said their party believes the United States maintains the same position as before regarding the issue of free and fair elections in Bangladesh.
"Basically, what we have seen is that they (US) have consistently spoken in favour of a free, fair, and impartial election and they still continue it," he told reporters in response to a question on US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu&rsquo;s visit to Bangladesh.
The BNP leader also said the US has been maintaining relations with the current Awami League government as per diplomatic norms.
"A country has to maintain ties with the governments of other countries, even with a military regime. In view of the current situation of Bangladesh, they (US) are doing what they think is necessary for their country. But they are not doing it against the people of Bangladesh," he said.
Referring to the Human Rights Report on Bangladesh released by the US in April, Fakhrul said it contained much more criticism than what Bangladeshi media reported. &ldquo;It has proved that they are not a bit pleased with the current situation of Bangladesh."
He alleged that the current government has destroyed all the institutions in the country by establishing one-party rule. &ldquo;The ruling party and government are deceiving the people all the time by lying and providing false information and data.&rdquo;
The BNP leader said the government is trying to obstruct the factual information as it imposed restrictions on journalists from entering the Bangladesh Bank. "
"It's the same everywhere. It means they are clinging to power by completely depending on lies and they want to continue it based on lies. It is not possible to sustain relying on lies,&rdquo; he observed
Fakhrul mentioned they have continued talks with opposition political parties to work out the strategy of their simultaneous movement.
A group of leaders from Gonoforum and the National People&rsquo;s Party had a meeting with the liaison committee of BNP, led by Fakhrul, at the BNP chairperson&rsquo;s Gulshan office.
&nbsp;

Fakhrul sees no noteworthy change in US position

Foreign Minister and Joint General Secretary of Awami League Hasan Mahmud on Tuesday said BNP, after the failure of their plot in the last election, is conspiring against the country by joining the international Israeli lobby.
&ldquo;BNP-Jamaat is doing bad politics on religious "sentiments" without making any protest to stop the killing of Palestinians. Instead of standing beside the Palestinians, they have become friends with Israel. They have become friends with Netanyahu. Joining hands with the agents of Israel, they started a conspiracy against Bangladesh. We have the evidence. They have to be unmasked,&rdquo; he said.
The AL leader made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a human chain-cum rally in front of the Jatiya Press Club.
The event was organised by the Bangladesh Swadhinata Parishad demanding an end to genocide in Palestine and against BNP's anti-state conspiracy.
The foreign minister said the whole world has spoken out against Israel's brutality in Gaza. &ldquo;But we can see that BNP and Jamaat, who try to politicise religion, have not uttered a single word against this crime against humanity because someone might be unhappy."
Hasan also criticised the Islamic parties who remained silent against the Israeli genocide in Palestine.
&ldquo;There are some Islamic parties in our country which stand in front of Baitul Mukarram for no reason. Now why are you not found? Where are you now? Before the election, you came to Baitul Mukarram to topple the government and demonstrate. On behalf of the Palestinian brothers, we did not see you arrange a big march against Israel,&rdquo; he said.
He said they are not really lovers of Islam, rather they are masked religious traders. &ldquo;They need to be unmasked.&rdquo;
Foreign Minister Hasan said, "Many of the leaders of political parties who criticise the government are bigger than their party and their cheeks are bigger than their bodies. I see many people giving long speeches against the government on social media. But I did not hear them speak against Netanyahu. Where are they? Where are they hiding?'
The Foreign Minister expressed steadfast support for the Palestinians and said the government and people of Bangladesh are always in favour of the Palestinians. &ldquo;Our policy is in favour of the freedom-seeking Palestinian people.&rdquo;
Bangladesh Swadhinata Parishad General Secretary Shahadat Hossain presided over the meeting.
Former General Secretary of Dhaka Metropolitan South Awami League Shahe Alam Murad, Awami League central committee member Balaram Podder, Awami League leader MA Karim, Central Jubo League leader Manik Lal Ghosh, Fariduzzaman, Muhammad Rokan Uddin Pathan, among others spoke.

BNP conspiring against country by joining hands with international Israeli lobby: Hasan Mahmud

Road Transport and Bridges Minister and General Secretary of the Awami League, Obaidul Quader, has said that the government is indifferent to US sanctions and visa policies. His comments came during a discussion on Tuesday (14 May) with journalists at the Secretariat addressing contemporary issues.
Quader remarked that US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu has come to Bangladesh with his own agenda, emphasising that the government did not extend an invitation to him. &ldquo;I do not want to discuss this matter. They come and go as part of their routine,&rdquo; Quader mentioned.
Regarding Lu&rsquo;s visit, Quader commented, &ldquo;He is not even a Foreign Minister! Why all this fuss about him! He has come here out of necessity, they have their agenda. When relationships exist, discussions on various issues related to those relationships will happen.&rdquo;
Quader also referenced previous discussions related to visa policies and sanctions before the elections, highlighting that the stance remains unchanged. &ldquo;We do not care about any kind of sanctions or visa policies,&rdquo; Quader declared when asked about the political implications of Lu&rsquo;s visit. &nbsp;

Don’t care about US sanctions, visa policies: Quader

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday alleged that an "invisible force", not Awami League, is running the country.
&ldquo;Are they (Awami League) actually running the country? They aren't the ones steering the country... It's an invisible force that's now running the country," he said.
Speaking at the rally, Fakhrul also said the ruling party has snatched the rights of people at the behest of that invisible force.
He also alleged that the government has ruined the state machinery and all institutions, including the police, administration, and judiciary, through politicisation.
The BNP leader bemoaned that people who do not belong to the ruling party cannot get any job or facility from the government.
He said even ruling party members have to secure their jobs by providing bribes. &ldquo;Even a school peon's job is given by taking at least Tk 15 lakh. They have created such a situation in the country.
&nbsp;Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal arranged the rally in front of BNP&rsquo;s Nayapaltan central office demanding the unconditional release of Khaleda Zia, Jubo Dal president Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, and other state prisoners and the withdrawal of the cases filed against Tarique Rahman.
Fakhrul accused the government of ruining the country&rsquo;s electoral system by holding lopsided elections and adopting new tactics.
&ldquo;This time they have introduced the dummy election&hellip;it's become a mockery and a farce.&rdquo;
He warned the Awami League that no despotic regime, including Hitler, Ershad, and Ayub Khan, could remain in power by suppressing and repressing people.
"The people of this country are fighters and rebels who don't always accept everything. The movement may seem to lose momentum temporarily. A fresh movement will start again,&rdquo; the BNP leader said.
He said the government is least bothered about people&rsquo;s demands as it considers the country its paternal property.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We say there's still time... the backs of the country&rsquo;s people have been pushed against the wall. So, don&rsquo;t force people to take to the streets to ensure your ouster.&rdquo; &nbsp;

"Invisible force" now running Bangladesh: Fakhrul

Foreign Minister and Joint General Secretary of Bangladesh Awami League Dr Hasan Mahmud today said the voices of people abandoned in politics are loud as like as frogs.
&ldquo;Though frogs are very small animals, their voices are very loud. In politics too, there are some abandoned people who go around joining all the parties,&rdquo; he added.
The foreign minister said he read a statement of Mahmudur Rahman Manna Bhai in the newspaper yesterday, he also heard it on television last night.
&ldquo;Manna bhai said the government has no base at all. The AL government has been in power four times in a row because the government has no foundation. They wanted to throw us away. But while pulling, they fell down. Now they are slowly trying to stand up with their broken back. We saw the competition of run in front of Nayapaltan on October 28 last year,&rdquo; he added.
Dr Hasan said these while speaking as chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the newly elected executive committee of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) Chattogram district unit, the reception ceremony of its management committee and the discussion on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.
Chattogram Zilla Parishad Chairman and Red Crescent District Unit President ATM Pearul Islam presided over the function while Chairman of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, Professor Dr. MU Kabir Chowdhury addressed the function as special guest.
District Red Crescent General Secretary Master Aslam Khan delivered the welcome speech at the city&rsquo;s Andorkillah Red Crescent field here.
Dr. Hasan Mahmud said, there are some other groups and individuals including Mahmudur Rahman Manna Bhai, who have no basis for their own party and join groups.
&ldquo;Manna Bhai Masha-Allah has changed only seven political parties so far. By breaking JSD he founded BASAD, again the BASAD broke and now he joined Gonotontro Monch. &nbsp;It cannot be said when he broke it and ran away again. In politics, they are the outcasts. Their words have no value,&rdquo; he added.
Dr Hasan said that their party is small, when they hold a rally, there are 20 to 30 people and journalists are 50.
&ldquo;But, their voice is so loud, one of them stood for election in Dhaka City Corporation, the votes received could not reach 2000. But their voices are too loud. Again, their voices seen on television are also a bit bigger,&rdquo; he added.
The Foreign Minister said the whole world is appreciating that the country is moving forward under the dynamic leadership of Sheikh Hasina.
&ldquo;The Secretary General of the United Nations appreciates, the President of the United States appreciates, the President and Prime Minister of India appreciates, the German Chancellor appreciates, the President of the European Union appreciates, the whole world appreciates, but their allies including the BNP cannot appreciate it. The country could have progressed much more if the culture of denial and confrontation donot exists in our politics,&rdquo; Dr Hasan said.
He said, over 80 heads of states and government congratulated our Prime Minister after the election.
&ldquo;The President of the United States has written a letter saying that he wants to take our relationship to new heights. This has upset the frogs of personal politics. That's why they jump more and more like frogs,&rdquo; he added.
Dr. Hasan Mahmud said Red Crescent Society has played an important role in building the country and rebuilding the war-torn country.
&ldquo;It is hoped that the Red Crescent Society will contribute to the healthcare and human service sector in the future journey of our country to reach its dream destination. During school life, I was a member of the Junior Red Cross and I had the opportunity to work in various places and camps. I think the Red Crescent and Boys Scouting have played a big role in my life, overcoming many challenges and getting to where I am today. The Red Crescent Society is working very well in the whole of Bangladesh to improve the human development index and health index of the country,&rdquo; Dr Hasan said.
The foreign minister said that doctors need to come first in improving healthcare. &ldquo;Because, it can be seen that the government has given a machine in the government hospital, but the box of that machine is not opened. Again the machine is opened, after a few days it breaks down, no further efforts are taken to repair it, so that people are forced to go to private clinics. Those who do these, actually stand against the people, work against the people. These are major hampered in improving our healthcare and making it harder to reach people's doorsteps,&rdquo; the foreign Minister said.
Dr Hasan said, when the people will raise their voices against them, it will no longer be possible for those who are doing these things.
&ldquo;Government is not a machine, government is run by people. So when the people speak against them, it will be easier for the government to take action against them,&rdquo; he added.

Voices of abandoned politicians are loud like frogs: Hasan Mahmud

A peace and development rally of Awami League (AL) will be held in front of Aarong in city&rsquo;s Mohammadpur area at 3:30pm tomorrow. &nbsp; AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today informed this at a joint meeting at party central office in city&rsquo;s Bangabandhu Avenue. &nbsp; He said AL doesn&rsquo;t hold a counter program. The party will arrange a peace and development rally, he added. &nbsp; He urged all to join the rally.

AL peace and development rally tomorrow

Awami League (AL) will hold a joint meeting with its central leaders, presidents-general secretaries of Dhaka North-South city units and Dhaka District and all associate bodies at 4 pm on Friday.
The meeting will be held at the party's central office on Bangabandhu Avenue here with Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader in chair, said a party press release.

AL joint meeting on Friday

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal said on Tuesday that immediate action will be taken if ministers and lawmakers attempt to sway the outcome of the upazila parishad polls due on May 8.
Speaking to reporters at Nirbachan Bhaban, the CEC said, "We will closely monitor whether any ministers or members of parliament attempt to influence the voting process. Swift action will be taken if any such interference is detected."
While noting that the Election Commission has effectively curbed ministerial influence, he said, "Several lawmakers are still present in their constituencies. However, they have been cautioned against interfering with the electoral process."
Asserting that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a free and fair election, the Chief Election Commissioner revealed that each polling center will be manned by 17 law enforcement personnel, with this number increasing to 19 in particularly sensitive areas."
The upazila parishad election will take place in four phases. In the initial phase, 1,588 candidates will compete across 150 upazilas.
Among them, 554 candidates are contending for chairman positions, 605 for vice chairman positions, and 429 for vice chairman positions reserved for women.
Additionally, 25 candidates, including six for chairman positions, nine for vice chairman positions, and 10 for vice chairman positions reserved for women, have already been elected unopposed in the first phase of the elections.

Immediate action if ministers, MPs try to influence voting: CEC

Awami League (AL) General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today said actions will be taken against those who will breach party discipline.
"The leaders who are assigned by the party (Awami League) will continue to try to discourage the family members of the ministers and MPs who want to be candidates in the upazila elections," he said.
The AL general secretary made the comment at a press conference after a secretariat meeting of the party at AL President Sheikh Hasina's political office in Dhanmondi here.
"They (AL leaders) are actively working the handle the matters related to the upazila election," he added.
About 75th founding anniversary of Awami League, Quader said "We (Awami League) have invited BNP to attend in our all programmes."
He said the Awami League will celebrate its three-day elaborate programme in a befitting manner marking its founding anniversary to be held on June 23.
The AL General Secretary said, "We decided to celebrate founding anniversary programme in a large scale and the programmes will be held at union, upazila and district level."
As part of the elaborate programme, a discussion will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan. On the occasion of the founding anniversary, "Sabuj Dharitree Programme" has been included, Quader said, adding tree plantation programme will be observed up to ward levels of the country.
Associate bodies of Awami League including Chhatra League, Jubo League and Swechasebak League will bring out joyous procession marking the founding anniversary of the party.
Besides, foods will be distributed among the poor and destitute people and distribution spots will be announced later.
Awami League Joint General Secretaries Mahbub Ul Alam Hanif and Dr Dipu Moni, Organizing Secretaries Ahmad Hossain, SM Kamal Hossain and Mirza Azam, Culture Affairs Secretary Asim Kumar Ukil, Liberation War Affairs Secretary Mrinal Kanti Das, Relief and Social Welfare Secretary Aminul Islam Amin, Science and Technology Affairs Secretary Abdus Sabur, Publicity and Publication Secretary Dr Abdus Sobhan Golap, Youth and Sports Secretary Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Deputy Office Secretary Sayem Khan, among others, were present at the press conference.

Quader warns AL men not to breach party discipline

Senior Correspondent

The Election Commission (EC), National Board of Revenue (NBR) and Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) should look into the sources of income along with the wealth and assets accumulated over time by candidates in the Upazila Parishad (UP) elections, said Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB).
&ldquo;I think it is the responsibility of the Election Commission, NBR and ACC to investigate the abnormal increase in the wealth of the candidates participating in the upazila elections,&rdquo; said TIB Executive Director Md Iftekharuzzaman speaking at a press briefing organised to present research data on UP candidates on Monday (6 May).
Iftekharuzzaman also thanked the EC for releasing the information about the candidates.
"Common people were getting information but no action was seen to be taken against the candidates," he added.
His remarks came following a presentation of the TIB report based on an analysis of the affidavits of the candidates of the first phase of the upazila elections.
According to the TIB report, over the last 10 years, the income of UP chairmen has increased by 18,233% while the income of the member of parliament increased by 20, 192% in the last 15 years.&nbsp;
The research also found that 16.64% of candidates are involved in different cases.&nbsp;
According to a land law, none can have more than 100 bigha or 33 acres of the land. But 10 candidates have more than 33 acres of land.&nbsp;
The analysis also said that 69.86% of the candidates were businessmen. The analysis found that a total of 94 candidates have more than Tk1 crore, which is 7% of the total candidates.&nbsp;
TIB said out of 152 upazilas in the first phase, the Election Commission has released the affidavits of candidates from 144 upazilas.
&nbsp;

EC, NBR and ACC should look into UP candidate' assets, income: TIB

A meeting of the Awami League (AL) secretariat will be held at the party's President Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s political office of Dhanmondi at 4pm tomorrow.&nbsp; &nbsp; AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader will preside over the meeting, said a press release signed by AL deputy office secretary Sayem Khan.
Quader has requested all concerned to attend the meeting on time.&nbsp;

AL secretariat meeting tomorrow

The ruling Awami League (AL) is under pressure due to the global economy and hike in commodity prices, said AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader.
&ldquo;There is a pressure from the global economic situation. The economic crisis caused by the war is all over the world. Our imports, exports, energy, inflation and dollar crisis are results of that,&rdquo; he said at a press briefing at the AL president's political office in Dhanmondi on Sunday (5 May) afternoon.
&ldquo;We cannot say that Bangladesh is free from the influence of the world&rsquo;s economic situation. So, there is the pressure. For example, the government is under pressure over rising commodity prices,&rdquo; he added.
Regarding relatives of already elected representatives contesting in the upazila elections, he said, &ldquo;We are a party. If getting a government position here gets concentrated in one family, then other leaders and activists will feel they have no future here.&rdquo;
Speaking about the Indian national election, the minister said, &ldquo;The opposition party did not boycott the elections in India. They joined the election. There is criticism but they are joining elections.&rdquo;

Govt under pressure over economy and commodity price hike: Obaidul Quader

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday (4 May) said BNP considers democratic rules, relegations and elections as pitfall as the party doesn't believe in democracy.
"As BNP considers democratic matters as a trap, it is making ill efforts to present the upcoming upazila parishad elections as a hollow thing," he said in a statement.
Quader said BNP's only target is to seize state power through conspiracy and destroy democratic continuity and political stability. &nbsp; That's why the party is making falsehood and spreading propaganda and rumors constantly to mislead the people, he said.
"The people know BNP very well. They have no interest in BNP's so-called movement and the party leaders' loud call," he said.
About BNP leaders' allegation that efforts are on to erase the name of Ziaur Rahman from history, Quader said BNP is trying to present an ill-famed person, who seized power down the barrel of a gun, as a mass-leader but the people never accept such evil efforts of the party.
So, there is no question of erasing the name of Ziaur Rahman from the history, he said.
In the history, Ziaur Rahman will remain as a killer of democracy and a dictator who seized state power, he said.
"Awami League never believes in distortion of history. Rather Ziaur Rahman made evil attempts to erase the name of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman after seizing state power," he said.
During the BNP tenure, state sponsored distorted and false history was spread, he said.
Even, the record of historic March 7 speech was not allowed to be played, he said.

BNP considers democratic rules, regulations as pitfall: Quader

Describing the upcoming Upazila Parishad (UP) elections as the &ldquo;government's trap&rdquo;, BNP senior leader Mirza Abbas on Saturday said their party did not fall prey to it by boycotting the polls.
"The current government has set another trap entwined with the upcoming upazila Parishad elections. They laid a trap earlier during the national election, but BNP boycotted that poll as well,&rdquo; he said.
Speaking at a human chain programme, the BNP leader also said the country does not need elections where people cannot exercise their right to franchise.
Like the national election on January 7, he said people will refrain from going to the polling station to cast their votes in the upazila elections.
Regarding the reported internal discord within the ruling party over the upazila polls, Abbas said Awami League leaders are restraining their own members from contesting the elections and conducting campaigns amidst the boycott by BNP. &ldquo;What would have happened had the BNP given candidates in the polls? So, our decision (to boycott the election) is justified."
Habibur Rashid Habib Mukti Parishad organised the human chain programme in front of the Jatiya Press Club, demanding the release of BNP&rsquo;s Dhaka South city unit joint convener Habibur Rashid Habib.
Mirza Abbas, a BNP standing committee member, said the country is now under the grip of an autocratic rule and the downfall of this regime is inevitable in the face of public outrage, sooner or later.
&ldquo;This is not an elected government. So, it is not BNP's responsibility to overthrow this regime. When the people decide, they will oust this government and no one will be able to resist it,&rdquo; he observed.
Slamming the government for continuously arresting BNP leaders and activists, Abbas said no autocratic regime in the world could suppress any movement by resorting to arrest.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re waging a movement and the country will be freed (from misrule). I don't know if I'll live to see it. But someone will come forward to free this country from the hands of these hyenas,&rdquo; he said.
Abbas bemoaned that their party Chief Khaleda Zia, who fought for democracy throughout her political career, is now fighting for life as she has been suffering from various critical ailments.
&ldquo;Allah knows when that happens to her. She&rsquo;s not allowed to go abroad. We have been repeatedly saying to send her abroad for treatment. &nbsp;Her condition is not good,&rdquo; he said.
The BNP leader alleged that the government is trying to kill Khaleda by not allowing her to go abroad, showing the excuse of laws.

UP polls a government trap: Mirza Abbas

Those who want to keep the government under pressure are now remaining under pressure as the Arab spring has also gone beyond the Atlantic, said Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader.
Quader, also Road Transport and Bridges Minister, said this while addressing a press briefing at the Awami League President Sheikh Hasina's political office in the capital's Dhanmondi on Friday.
"We feel pressure while governing the country. Even before the election, there was pressure and threats. They have publicly said that they will impose sanctions. Now those who will stress for normal reasons are stressed enough themselves. The Arab Spring has also touched the other side of the Atlantic and we can see it from afar."
Regarding upazila elections candidatures, Awami League general secretary said that the party president has specifically meant wives and children as close relatives of MP ministers. She made it clear in the party's Thursday meetings.
Quader said that many relatives of the MP and minister have started withdrawing their candidature in the upazila elections. Many have already done so. Lastly, Ghulam Dastgir's son withdrew his candidature, he mentioned.
 About the BNP chairperson's treatment abroad, Quader said although &nbsp;Khaleda Zia is now imprisoned in the cases filed by the caretaker government, she is now in her residence due to the generosity of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. "She is also even receiving treatment &nbsp;from foreign physicians"
"BNP leaders could not even do a legal battle to release Begum Khaleda Zia. They failed to make any visible procession on the streets," he added.
BNP had created such an unstable situation across the country in the name of a movement with a target to thwart elections and that's why they have lost people's support, Quader said.
As a result, BNP activists now become tired and frustrated though their leaders show them a dream of power, he added.
Obaidul Quader said we do positive politics. Some practical measures should be taken to relieve the people from the particular crisis and to eliminate it.
"The party leader has given the responsibility to organize the party to continue the development process, eliminate the unemployment problem and implement the election manifesto and that is how we are organizing the party," he said
Among others, the press conference was also attended by Awami League Organising Secretaries BM Mozammel Huq and SM Kamal Hossen.

Those who want to keep govt under pressure are themselves under pressure: Quader

The present situation of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is the result of the party leaders&rsquo; negligence, said Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader.
&ldquo;The case was filed against her by the caretaker government, Awami League did not file the case. She was arrested and imprisoned in that case. &nbsp;BNP leadership&rsquo;s negligence is the reason for Begum Zia's current situation,&rdquo; he said at a press briefing at the Awami League president's political office in Dhanmondi on Friday (3 May).
&ldquo;A trial that could have been over in a year has not been completed in ten years,&rdquo; he added.
He said PM Sheikh Hasina was generous enough to allow Khaleda&rsquo;s punishment to be suspended.
&ldquo;Arrangements have been made for her to stay at home and receive treatment,&rdquo; the AL leader said.
In response to a question about domestic and foreign pressures, Obaidul Quader said, "We feel these pressures while performing the duties of the country."
&ldquo;Before the elections, there were public threats, intimidation, and fear of sanctions. These were given openly. Our statement on this matter is also clear,&rdquo; he further said.

BNP’s negligence responsible for Khaleda Zia’s present situation: Quader

Awami League (AL) General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today said that the main goal of the ruling Awami League (AL) is to work for the welfare of the toiling people of the country. &nbsp; &ldquo;The goal of AL is to change the fate of farmers, workers and the toiling people,&rdquo; he said in a statement sent to the media today, protesting the misleading and provocative statements of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
Recalling BNP-Jamaat&rsquo;s tenure, the AL general secretary said that when the BNP-Jamaat evil forces were in power, the people of the country had to live in misery due to their misrule.
&ldquo;Today, they talked about the rights of working people. But they never increased the wages of the workers while in power,&rdquo; he added.
Highlighting BNP-Jamaat&rsquo;s atrocities, he said this evil force shot dead laborers who were agitating for salary and bonus, killed farmers who were agitating for fertilizer and murdered ordinary people who were agitating for electricity.
Thus, the BNP-Jamaat clique crushed Bangladesh by holding people hostage at gunpoint, he said.
Obaidul Quader said that they made the life of working people miserable by shutting down different factories, including the Adamjee Jute Mills. &nbsp; On the other hand, Awami League has increased the salaries of garment workers as well as tea workers after coming to power, he said, adding that the living standard of all, including working people, has improved.
Quader further said that Awami League always comes to power with people's vote.
Awami League is not like a political party which came into being from the pocket of a military dictator, he said, adding that this party led the struggles for establishment of all rights, including democratic rights, of the people of this country, he said.
In continuation of that, Awami League is working to establish people's voting rights and other rights, he added.
He said that the 12th national election, held on January 7 last, was fairer than all the elections held in the country after 1975.
&ldquo;Awami League has come to power through elections by ensuring people's right to vote and is running the country with people's mandate,&rdquo; he said.
Obaidul Quader said that BNP had always taken away the voting rights of the people to grab the power. &ldquo;For this, they are afraid of elections and they don't want to participate in it,&rdquo; he added.
&ldquo;Once they excluded half a crore voters from the list to make smooth their way to grab power. They also created 1.23 crore fake voters,&rdquo; he said.
He said that issues like democracy and right to vote do not fit in the mouth of those who undertook different tactics to snatch the voting rights of the people.
&ldquo;The main objective of BNP&rsquo;s politics is to seize power by any means,&rdquo; he continued.
They seized state power and used it illegally to make Bangladesh a dysfunctional state through corruption and looting, he said.
Bangladesh had the stigma of being the champion of corruption for five times because of BNP, he said.

AL’s main goal is to work for welfare of toiling people: Quader

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday asked the country&rsquo;s leftist parties who they want to bring to power by ousting her.
&ldquo;The leftists have turned by 90 degrees. Well, they want to oust me. But could they determine who would come next? It is my question. Who would come to power and who would work for the country? But it is not clear who they want to bring,&rdquo; she said.
The premier said this while addressing a press conference arranged at her official residence Ganabhaban on the outcome of her recent six-day visit to Thailand.
Replying to a question, she said since it is not clear whom the leftists want to bring in power next, none of them don&rsquo;t get response from the people.
She said yes, movement is being carried out. Staying in a foreign land as a fugitive, someone is doing movement as well as giving orders online everyday thanks to Digital Bangladesh made by her government, she added.
&ldquo;Let those who are waging a movement do it. We at least are not hindering it,&rdquo; she said.
Criticising the US style to curb ongoing demonstrations carried out against Israeli aggression on Palestine, the PM said there is a possibility now for Bangladesh to stop the movement here following the American style.
&ldquo;I think our police now can follow the American police. We asked them (Bangladesh Police) to show patience,&rdquo; she said, adding that their member was beaten to death in October 2023.
&ldquo;So, our police can take measures to curb movement in American style,&rdquo; she went on.
Replying to another question, the prime minister said her government&rsquo;s goal is to make the ongoing upazila election a meaningful one.
In this context, she said a good number of political parties boycott elections as they have no capacity to run in the polls.
&ldquo;Why do they boycott elections? The reason is that they actually don&rsquo;t have capacity to compete in the elections,&rdquo; said Sheikh Hasina, also the President of ruling Bangladesh Awami League.
The prime minister returned to Bangladesh on April 29 after concluding her visit, which began on April 24 at the invitation of her Thai counterpart Srettha Thavisin.

Who they want to bring to power ousting me: PM Hasina wonders about leftists

The government will take steps to bring the people and groups involved in anti-state activities under surveillance to protect the country but media will be given full freedom, said the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad A Arafat.
&ldquo;Government has no intention to control the media, the government is committed to freedom of the media,&rdquo; he said while participating in a discussion meeting organised by UNESCO, Transparency International Bangladesh and Article 19 on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on Thursday (2 May).
&ldquo;Media in Bangladesh is open because of which anyone can do what they want&rdquo;, he added.
Stating that the media has the freedom to criticise the government, Arafat said, &ldquo;There is no obstacle to healthy journalism in the country.&rdquo;
However, the minister urged people to be aware so that the law is not misused.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If anyone abuses the law under the pretext of media freedom, they should be booked,&rdquo; he added.
The global theme for this year's Press Freedom Day is "A Press For The Planet: Journalism In The Face Of The Environmental Crisis".
Speaking at the event, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said environmental journalists in the country have come under attack many times while in the line of duty.
"Bangladesh has played a commendable role in combating global warming. However, increasing land grabbing, destruction of biodiversity in the name of development and encroachment in the name of urbanisation have now become normal.&nbsp;A section of the ruling class is benefiting from attacks on the environment and those who are supposed to enforce the law are not doing their work,&rdquo; he added.
&ldquo;In the 2022-23 year, a total of 23 incidents of cases and attacks have happened because of publishing reports related to environmental degradation news. In those incidents, at least 43 journalists have been injured,&rdquo; he further said.
The TIB executive director said such incidents are not isolated incidents that have become common.

People involved in anti-state activities will be brought under surveillance: Arafat

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will address a press briefing on the outcome of her recent Thailand visit on Thursday (2 May) morning.
"The press conference will be held at her official Ganabhaban residence here at 10am on Thursday," said an official release of the prime minister's press wing.
The premier returned home from Bangkok on 29 April wrapping up her six-day official visit to Thailand.
During her visit, Sheikh Hasina had a bilateral talk with Thai Prime Minister Thavisin at the Government House (the Thai Premier's Office) as five bilateral documents were signed on visa exemption, cooperation on energy, tourism and customs matters, and negotiation of free trade agreement (FTA) between Bangladesh and Thailand in the presence of the two leaders.
The Bangladeshi premier also paid a courtesy call on King and the Queen of the Kingdom of Thailand Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshan at Amphorn Satharn Throne Hall in Dusit Palace.
Apart from these, she addressed the 80th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in Bangkok.

PM to brief media on Thailand visit tomorrow morning

Bangladesh Awami League will celebrate its 75th founding anniversary in a befitting manner on June 23, said party&rsquo;s General Secretary Obaidul Quader.
He came up with the announcement after a meeting of the Awami League Central Working Committee (ALCWC) at Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s official residence Ganabhaban Tuesday (30 April) night.
Quader told the journalists that the committee decided to celebrate the founding anniversary gorgeously.
Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presided over the meeting.
AL President Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s homecoming day on May 17, Sheikh Kamal&rsquo;s birthday and National Mourning Day on August 15 were also tabled in the meeting, he said.
No discussion on the upazila parishad election was held in the meeting, he responded to a query, adding that the situation is being observed deeply.
Stern actions will be executed in due time if anyone violates organizational directives, he went on saying.

AL to celebrate its 75th founding anniversary gorgeously

Awami League Central Working Committee (ALCWC) will hold a meeting at 7 pm today (30 April).
Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will preside over the meeting to be held at her official Ganabhaban residence in the city.
AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader has urged all the members of the central working committee to attend the meeting in due time.

AL Central Working Committee's meeting today

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today said BNP is becoming weak organizationally day by day for adopting ill-strategy avoiding pro-people politics.
"As a political party, BNP cannot add any new dimension in mass politics. So, BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is making same remarks on media regularly. He is constantly presenting fake and baseless stories of repression and torture," he said in statement.
Quader said BNP has adopted a new ill-strategy for concealing their failure in calling any pro-people political programme. The party leaders are making evil efforts to get sympathy by presenting them as repressed and tortured, he said.
"Because of such evil strategy, BNP is becoming organizationally weak day by day," he said.
The AL general secretary said Awami League remains in power with people's mandate. Different countries and originations and their leaders congratulated successful statesman Sheikh Hasina for her election as the prime minister for the fifth time and recognized her government, he said.
BNP, which itself is facing the crisis of existence and reached near political bankruptcy, is now talking about the government's existence, he said.
Noting that BNP is an artificially created political party, the AL general secretary said BNP always makes evil efforts to create artificial political crisis through presenting fake, fabricated and politically motivated remarks.
Quader said BNP should realise that the government has to work to control anti-state activities, not the opposition party.
So, keeping own party leaders and workers away from anti-state and terrorist activities will be better for BNP, he said.
Quader said the people's democratic rights remain protected at the hands of Awami League. On the other hand, the people don't forget the misrule, corruption and looting of BNP government, he said.
During the BNP tenure, the entire country became a safe haven of terrorism and militancy, said Quader.
The people don't want to return to the dark days, the AL general secretary said.

BNP becoming organisationally weak avoiding pro-people politics: Quader

Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina yesterday (28 April) expressed profound shock and sorrow at the death of her party's advisory committee member and Ekushey Padak winning educationist and former secretary general of the Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha Prof Dr Pranab Kumar Barua.
In a message of condolence, she prayed for salvation of the departed soul and expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved family.

PM mourns Ekushey Padak winning educationist Prof Pranab Kumar Barua's death

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday said Bangladesh is now a one-party state, with the parliament having turned into a place of recreation in the absence of the opposition party.&nbsp;
The BNP leader made this remark while addressing a programme to distribute potable water among common people amidst the heatwave in Pallabi, Dhaka, on Saturday (April 27).
Referring to the prime minister&rsquo;s instruction to Awami League leaders and activists to follow the ideology of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Rizvi said, &ldquo;Sheikh Mujib&rsquo;s ideology was a one-party ruling system, &lsquo;Bakshal,&rsquo; which you have established over the last 16-17 years. The situation has already worsened, and it will take a worse turn with your call to follow Sheikh Mujib."
Rizvi said, &ldquo;53% of places outside Dhaka are without electricity, with people languishing amidst heatwaves.
"The Awami League is turning the country into a death valley. Agricultural yields have dropped in some districts in the Southern region, thanks to the coal-run power plant. People in Pabna are living at risk of any accident that may result in the loss of many lives."
Commenting on the ban on the entry of journalists to the Bangladesh Bank, Rizvi questioned why reporters are being barred from entering the central bank, as "there are hundreds of documents recording graft there."
Rizvi said, &ldquo;BNP leaders and activists have never isolated themselves from social service, even after being subjected to oppression, imprisonment, killings, and forced disappearances. They do not forget people after being freed from jail but rather take to the streets to work for the people.&rdquo;
Acting convenor of Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP Farhad Ali Donar, member secretary Aminul Haque, and other leaders and activists of various organizations were present at the event.

Parliament turns into a place of recreation in absence of opposition party: Rizvi

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said that the BNP should take lessons from the statements made by Pakistan's prime minister regarding Bangladesh's development.
Quader stated that Pakistan appreciates Bangladesh's development, while the BNP indulges in falsehoods and propaganda against the government's development efforts.
"Today, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif feels ashamed when he sees the progress and achievements of Bangladesh," Quader said while talking to reporters at a press conference on Friday.
Quader also commented that Bangladesh is progressing well in terms of democracy and elections without the involvement of the BNP.
He stated that the upcoming upazila (sub-district) elections will be conducted fairly, and Awami League will neither support nor oppose the BNP's participation.
Quader also warned that if the BNP violates party directives during the upazila elections, appropriate organizational measures will be taken in due time.

BNP should learn from Pakistan PM's statement : Quader

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today asked the leaders and activists of Awami League to work for the development of the country and its people as well as spread the ideals of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. &nbsp; "You should work for development of the country and its people alongside spreading the ideals of Bangabandhu," she said. &nbsp; The premier made this call when a delegation of Thailand Awami League unit paid a courtesy call on her at her place of residence, PM's Speechwriter Md. Nazrul Islam briefed reporters after the call on. &nbsp; Mentioning that Bangabandhu is her source of inspiration, Sheikh Hasina told the leaders and activists that the Father of the Nation was killed untimely but "his ideals remained among us and that is why I am working to materialise his ideals" as he (Bangabandhu) had dream to bring smile among the face of poor and destitute people of the country. &nbsp; Referring to the remarkable progress and development the country witnessed in last 15 years, Sheikh Hasina, also the President of Awami League, said that this has been possible to attain the progress as they are in power uninterruptedly for long. &nbsp; The leaders and activists told the Prime Minister that many Bangladeshis have attained the citizenship of Thailand, but they also want to keep dual citizenship. &nbsp; For this dual citizenship, they sought the Prime Minister's intervention. &nbsp; In reply to them, the premier said that she would talk with the Thai government in this regard. &nbsp;

PM asks AL men to work for country, its people

The BNP has expelled 73 grassroots leaders for taking part in the first phase of upcoming upazila elections violating the party's decision.
The punitive action was taken against the party leaders as per its constitution, said a press release, signed by BNP Senior Joint General Secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, on Friday.
It said the 73 leaders of BNP and its associate bodies who are contesting for the post of chairman, vice chairman and female vice chairman in the first phase of upazila polls in violation of the party's decision have been expelled from all party positions, including its primary membership.
Of them, 28 are vying for the post of upazila chairman while 24 for the vice-chairman post and 21 for the position of female vice-chairman.
A total of 152 upazilas across the country will go to polls in the first phase on May 8 as per the schedule announced by the Election Commission.
The elections to a total of 492 upazilas will take place in four phases. The second phase of upazila polls will be held on May 23 while the third phase on May 29 and the fourth phase on June 5.
The BNP high-command earlier decided not to join any elections under the current government and the Election Commission.

BNP expels 73 leaders for contesting first phase of upazila polls

Action would be taken if the relatives of Awami League ministers and lawmakers disregard the party's instruction not to participate in the upazila parishad elections, AL&nbsp;General Secretary Obaidul Quader warned on Wednesday.&nbsp;
"The deadline for the withdrawal of candidature in the first phase of the election has passed. Some individuals said that 'if we had been informed about the matter earlier, it would have been easier for us to make a decision'. Nonetheless, there is still an opportunity to step back from the race," said Quader at a press conference at the AL president's political office in Dhanmondi.
He said disciplinary measures would be enforced if party directives were not adhered to, adding, "Just as action was taken against those who defied the party's decision in the 12th national parliament election, the party will assess its own actions.
Those who persist with their candidacies until the final stage of the election will face timely action from the party, Quader warned.

Action if relatives of ministers, MPs contest upazila polls: Quader

Upazila parishad elections to 55 upazilas will be held in the 4th phase on June 5 as the Election Commission (EC) announced the schedule after a meeting today.
EC secretary Md Jahangir Alam announced the schedule after a meeting at the Agargaon's Nirbachan Bhaban with Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal in the chair.
According to the schedule, the last date for submission of nomination paper is May 9 and nomination papers will be scrutinized on May 12.
Appeals can be made against the decisions of returning officers from May 13 to 15. Appeals will be settled from May 16 to 18.
The last date for withdrawal of candidature is May 19 and symbols will be allotted on May 20. &nbsp; The EC secretary said votes will be held in two upazilas using electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ballots will be used in the remaining 53 upazila.

Fourth phase of upazila parishad polls slated for 5 June

Union Parishad (UP) chairmen can participate in the UP elections without resigning from their positions, the &nbsp;High Court (HC) dictated in an order passed today (23 April).
A High Court Division Bench comprising Justice Sheikh Hasan Arif and Justice Md. Bazlur Rahman passed the order.
The High Court passed the order in view of the writ brought by the Chairmen of the Union Parishad for the two upazila elections of Kushtia and Sylhet.

UP Chairmen can participate in polls without resigning: HC

Vested quarters both inside the country and from abroad are trying to topple the democratically elected government of Bangladesh, said Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader.
&ldquo;We have been noticing the plot of vested quarters inside the country and also from abroad to oust the elected for a long time,&rdquo; he said while speaking as the chief guest at an event organised by AL&rsquo;s publicity and publication sub-committee at the party&rsquo;s central office on Tuesday (23 April).
&ldquo;Even though the election process was transparent and the voter turnout was satisfactory, some local and foreign circles continue to spread propaganda and lies,&rdquo; he added.
Obaidul Quader said, &ldquo;We all have to build a united resistance against the evil forces against democracy, peace and development. We must unite to resist them.&rdquo;
AL believes that people are the source of all power., Quader said, adding, &ldquo;Sheikh Hasina came to power and stopped the politics of killing.&rdquo;

Foreign and domestic vested quarters conspiring to topple democratically elected govt: Quader

BNP has postponed its rally scheduled for April 26 due to the extreme heatwave.
The party announced the postponement of the rally in a statement on Thursday.
The rally was supposed to be held in front of the party&rsquo;s central office in Dhaka's Nayapaltan.
BNP Dhaka Metropolitan South Unit&rsquo;s office secretary, Saidur Rahman, said a new date for the rally will be announced later.

BNP postpones April 26 rally due to heatwave

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today termed BNP as communal force, kingpin of corruption and money laundering and urged all to resist them.
&ldquo;BNP is the main obstacle to the country&rsquo;s overall progress. They should be resisted,&rdquo; he told a discussion marking the 52nd founding anniversary of Krishak League at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in the capital&rsquo;s Khamarbari.
Quader said BNP is now disoriented as its leader is staying in London and workers have become frustrated. BNP workers also don&rsquo;t believe that the party has any future, he said.
Those who failed in waging movement and resisting polls are now criticizing the government, he said.
The AL general secretary those who perpetrated assassination of Bangabandhu and most of his family members and killing of four national leaders are now talking about democracy.
He said BNP itself remains in crisis so that they are saying the country is in crisis. As long as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains in power, the country will never lose its path, he said.
Krishak League President Samir Chanda chaired the discussion while AL Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Organizing Secretary Mirza Azam, Agriculture and Cooperative Affairs Secretary Faridunnahar Laily and Krishak League acting General Secretary Biswanath Sarker Bitu also spoke. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Quader terms BNP as communal force, kingpin of corruption

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today (18 April)&nbsp; said the upazila parishad election will be held in a free, impartial, fair and peaceful environment though BNP leaders are making &nbsp;confusing statements over the polls going beyond political etiquette.
&ldquo;Bangladesh Awami League is determined to develop democratic culture. Elections at different tiers of local government are immensely important for empowerment of people. Upazila Parishad elections will be held in a free, neutral, fair and peaceful environment,&rdquo; he said.
Quader, also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, said this in a statement sent to the media to protest the &lsquo;false and fabricated&rsquo; remarks of BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and its other leaders.
He alleged that BNP leaders are making confusing statements about the upazila elections, going beyond political etiquette.
&ldquo;BNP as always has taken a stance against the elections and the country's democracy. That is why people have turned away from them,&rdquo; said the AL leader.
Noting that Awami League had to take a strategic stance regarding the upazila election in the context of BNP&rsquo;s an anti-election stance, he said Awami League is not allocating it&rsquo;s symbol (Boat) this time.
&ldquo;Awami League expects that persons, who are acceptable to the party (AL) and the people outside the party, would be elected,&rdquo; said Quader.
He said Awami League has given strict organisational instructions so that ministers, MPs and party leaders can&rsquo;t make any sort of interference in the upazila parishad elections.
Extensive electoral campaigns and spontaneous participation of the people are being noticed in the first phase upazila election, said the AL general secretary.
&ldquo;When the people of the country are spontaneously participating in the elections, the BNP leaders are taking steps to question the country's democratic system and elections as always. BNP wants to disrupt the electoral system and destroy the democratic process,&rdquo; he said.
Quader said BNP leaders including BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir have been continuously lying.
&ldquo;In fact, they have no respect towards democracy and the rule of law. On one hand they are nurturing arson terrorists and on the other hand they are raising false allegations of suppressing the opposition when the law enforcement agencies take legal action against the terrorists. BNP has continuously been engaged in conspiracies to destroy the continuation of democracy and stability of Bangladesh,&rdquo; he said.
The AL leader alleged that BNP leaders are trying to protect terrorists by making false allegations of suppression of opposition parties.
&ldquo;We want to say in an unequivocal voice that Awami League does not believe in suppressing the opposition parties. But there is no exemption for terrorists and they must face justice no matter what party they belong to,&rdquo; he said.
The AL general secretary urged everyone to be aware and alert about the anti-democratic activities of BNP.
Besides, he asked his party&rsquo;s leaders and activists to extend full cooperation to the Election Commission for arrangement of free, fair and peaceful elections.

Upazila parishad polls to be held in free, fair environment :Quader

The ruling party, Awami League, has issued a directive barring the children, family members, and close associates of ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) from participating in the upcoming upazila parishad elections.
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader conveyed these directives of the prime minister during a meeting with the party's divisional leaders held today (18 April) at the party's political office in the capital.
"During the meeting, our secretary general informed us about the Prime Minister's directive to ensure that the children, brothers, or relatives of ministers and MPs to not become candidates in the upazila elections," the party&rsquo;s organising secretary SM Kamal Hossain told the Bangladesh First.
Those who defy this order and persist in their candidacy may face disciplinary action, possibly resulting in expulsion from the party, said party sources.
The upazila parishad elections are scheduled to be held in four phases across 485 out of 495 upazilas. The Election Commission will organize voting in the remaining areas afterward.
The first phase, slated for 8 May, will witness voting in 150 upazilas.
Meanwhile, a local media report reveals that in 14 upazilas of the first phase, the children, family members, and close relatives of ministers and Members of Parliament are running for the chairman's position.

AL prohibits ministers' and MPs' relatives from upazila polls

The recent increase in the number of road accidents in the country is due to the negligence and mismanagement of the government, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said.
&ldquo;Currently, road accidents have taken a terrible form. The level of road accidents has increased due to mismanagement and negligence of the government,&rdquo; he said in a statement issued over the death of 13 people, including 4 members of the same family, in a head-on collision between a bus and a pickup van in Dignagar Tentultala area of Faridpur Sadar on the Dhaka-Khulna highway on Tuesday (16 April).
The BNP secretary general also expressed deep grief over the accident.
In the statement, he expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and expressed deep concern over the loss of lives in such accidents across the country.

Road accidents have increased due to govt’s negligence: Mirza Fakhrul

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&rsquo;s actions against Palestinians are similar to Adolf Hitler&rsquo;s atrocities during World War II, Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said.
&ldquo;Netanyahu has emerged as more dangerous than Hitler,&rdquo; he said at a press conference held at the political office of the AL president in Dhanmondi on Tuesday (16 April).
&ldquo;Today the whole world has become a battlefield. The arrogance and warlike attitude of Hitler during WWII can be seen again in world politics. The Holocaust that Hitler caused killed 6 million Jews. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu appears more terrifying than Hitler. They are already killing 14,000 children in Gaza,&rdquo; he added.
Awami League General Secretary said, that after Iran attacked Israel, the world's influential countries, including the United States, told Israel to remain calm, but Netanyahu decided to attack Iran again.
&ldquo;It seems that Netanyahu is the most powerful person in the world today. His power seems to surpass that of Hitler,&rdquo; he said.
Regarding the first round of upazila parishad elections, the AL general secretary said that there will be no party in the first round of elections on 8 May.
&ldquo;The prime minister has instructed not to interfere in any way so that the election is conducted peacefully and fairly. The administration will not interfere in any way,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;The Election Commission has arranged for smooth voting. Although BNP openly opposes the upazila elections, we know many of them will participate,&rdquo; he added.

Netanyahu is behaving like Hitler: Quader

Claiming BNP&rsquo;s falsehood over the number of its imprisoned party men, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today sought the list of imprisoned BNP leaders, otherwise BNP have to seek apology to the nation.
&ldquo;The number of BNP&rsquo;s captive leaders was 20,000 and how it becomes 60 lakh&hellip;so, reveal the list of 60lakh jailed activists, otherwise Mirza Fakhrul Islam must have to seek apology to the nation for his falsehood&rdquo;, he said.
Quader also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister made this comment while briefing the journalists at Awami League President&rsquo;s political office at Dhanmondi here this afternoon. Talking about the Mujibnagar Day on April 17, the ruling party leader said &ldquo;it [April 17] is the oath day of the first government of the Independent Bangladesh &hellip;but BNP does not accept it.&rdquo;
Even they refuse June 7, a red-letter day in the history of freedom movements of the people of Bangladesh and the nation has since been observing June 7 as the historic Six-Point Day, he said.
&lsquo;So, I never believe that BNP will do positive politics with the spirit of Bengali culture&rdquo;, Quader added.
Sharply criticizing that the BNP was born to destroy the Spirit of Liberation of Bangladesh, the road transport and bridges minister said they want to strike on the root of the land [Bangladesh]. &ldquo;Suddenly one became an announcer of our independence through blowing a whistle and it was the role of BNP in 1971&rdquo;, he noted.
Replying to a query on Israel and Palestine, the minister said &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t want war&hellip; We want peace&rdquo;.
Asked about the continuation of government&rsquo;s step on checking commodity price like the holy Ramadan, Quader said the programme would be continued till fulfill the peoples&rsquo; requirement.
Awami League Joint general secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Organizing secretaries BM Mozammel Huq, Mirza Azam, Relief and Social Welfare Affairs secretary Aminul Islam Amin, Cultural affairs secretary Ashim Kumar Ukil and deputy office secretary Sayem Khan, among others, attended the function.

Reveal BNP’s jailed leaders list, otherwise seek apology to nation: Quader

BNP is spreading lies and fabricated narratives about forced disappearances and torture of its activists, said Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader.
&ldquo;At a time when the countrymen are celebrating Eid, BNP is spreading lies about forced disappearances and torture to mislead people,&rdquo; he said in a statement on Saturday (13 April).
&ldquo;Information given by Mirza Fakhrul about the disappearances and murders of BNP activists and the number of cases filed against them is completely fabricated. They [BNP] are now making blatant lies with fabricated information,&rdquo; he added.
Quader said BNP leaders are spreading anti-government propaganda to gain favours from foreign powers.
&ldquo;If there is any violation of law and rights, the government will look into the matter seriously. But Mirza Fakhrul is trying to gain political advantage by spreading propaganda, he added.
Obaidul Quader further said, &ldquo;When the BNP was in power, The 21 August 21, 2004 grenade attack was carried out to completely wipe out the Bangladesh Awami League. Between 2001 and 2006, a total of 1,223 Awami League leaders and activists were killed in crossfire and police custody by law enforcement forces.&rdquo;
&ldquo;But Awami League does not believe in revenge. Awami League government is determined to establish democracy and the rule of law in the country at any cost,&rdquo; he said.

BNP spreading lies about forced disappearances and torture: Obaidul Quader

BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday said that the people of country are going to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr tomorrow in a festive mood but there is no joy of Eid in the families of BNP leaders and activists.
He said this in an Eid gift distribution programme organised by BNP Dhaka Metropolitan North&rsquo;s Kafrul Thana unit in the city.
Rizvi said a sad ambience has been prevailing at BNP leaders and activists&rsquo; families as someone has lost a leg, and someone lost an eye in law enforcement agencies&rsquo; brutal torture.
&ldquo;When we visit any BNP leader or activist&rsquo;s house , we see that the party activist missing for a long time or was subject to extra judicial killing earlier&rdquo;.
Families of BNP leaders and activists are celebrating Eid with tears for their son, brother, father, husband and so on, he said.
In the 15 years BNP leaders and activists either went to jail, hospital or got out of jail, he added.
On the one hand, the ruling party is driving steam roller on BNP, on the other hand, Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s close one was placed Forbes Magazine top twenties richest list by looting country&rsquo;s poor people&rsquo;s money, he claimed.
&ldquo;In the name of development like Padma Bridge, metro rail, quick rental, Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s looters made Begum Para in Canada, Gulshan 3 in Dubai, second home in Malaysia by looting poor people&rsquo;s money.&rdquo;
This is not fairy tale, it is real, Rizvi said.
Not only the BNP men but also the mass people are suffering due to AL misrule, said Rizvi further adding that a father sold his son after failing to pay treatment bill in hospital, mother sold her child in market due to extreme poverty.

No Eid joy in BNP leaders, activists’ families: Rizvi

The ruling Awami League has been invited by India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to serve the world's largest democracy's Lok Sabha polls, reports The Indian Express.
India's ruling party however has not yet extended an invitation to BNP.
The leaders of the invited parties from abroad will be in India at the invitation of BJP which seeks a record third term under Inidan Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the seven-phase elections beginning 19 April.
BJP has asked the political parties to send their representatives.
However, none of the political parties from the US has been invited but the Conservative and Labour parties of the United Kingdom and the Christian Democrats and Social Democrats of Germany have been invited.
BJP has also invited all leading political parties of Nepal.
13 parties have so far accepted the invitation.

BJP invites AL to observe Lok Sabha polls

BNP Leaders and activists are trying to sow seeds of despair among the people, said Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader.
&ldquo;Such activities are against the interest of the country and the people,&rdquo; he said in a statement signed by Awami League Office Secretary Biplab Barua on Tuesday (9 April) afternoon.
&ldquo;There is no vision in BNP leadership. They see nothing positive, always trying to mislead the people of the country,&rdquo; he added.
Obaidul Quader said BNP is following the wrong policies.
&ldquo;BNP's politics is in dire straits. Their leaders and activists are depressed due to wrong politics,&rdquo; he added.
Referring to BNP as an enemy of democracy and an internationally identified terrorist group, Obaidul Quader said in his statement, &ldquo;BNP's policies, ideals and practices are contrary to democratic values.&rdquo;
He also said Awami League is working tirelessly to protect the freedom, sovereignty and democracy of the country under the leadership of PM Hasina.
&ldquo;We will take Bangladesh forward against all odds. Future Bangladesh will be a developed, prosperous, safe and smart Bangladesh,&rdquo; he said.

BNP trying to sow seeds of despair among the people: Quader

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today said BNP has no responsibility towards the country's democracy rather the party is the main obstacle to implement the democratic norms here.
"When killers of democracy talk about democracy, then it should be understood that they have different purpose. This is nothing but their crocodile tears for democracy. BNP has no responsibility towards democracy," he said in a statement.
Quader, also road transport and bridges minister, said such outcry of BNP for democracy is to push back the country towards the misrule of Tarique Rahman, who is the mastermind of August 21 grenade attack, kingpin of "Hawa-Khwab Bhaban" and key player of corruption, terrorism and criminalization.
Today the democracy-loving people of this country are united against the evil force, he said.
The AL general secretary said BNP, which was born at the hands of dictator, is carrying out ill-attempts to destroy the spirit and values of Liberation War and democracy as well under an orchestrated plan.
He said BNP leaders should have sought unconditional pardon from the nation for their undemocratic activities. But without doing so, they are making their traditional ill-motivated comments, he added. &nbsp; The minister said BNP founder cruel military dictator Ziaur Rahman had seized the state power down the barrel of a gun.
Ziaur Rahman forced President Abu Sadat Mohammad Sayem to resign at gunpoint and became the President of Bangladesh, he said.
Quader said Zia had ruined the country's democratic values and election system in the name of farcical elections of "Yes-No" vote in 1977.
Following the footprints of Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia held farcical elections on February 15 in 1996, he said.
"She (Khaleda) gifted the nation Mirpur and Magura types rigged by-elections," he said.
BNP formed Aziz-type Election Commission and created voter's list of 1.23 crore fake voters to seize the state power through election manipulation, Quader said. The AL general secretary said BNP had set a worst example of repression and torture on leaders and workers of opposition party in the name of "Operation Clean Heart".
During the tenure of the BNP-Jamaat coalition government in the post 2001 period, as many as 21,000 leaders and workers of Awami League were killed, Quader said.

BNP has no responsibility towards democracy: Quader

&nbsp;Narges Mohammadi, jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner,&nbsp; says she is facing a new trial after she accused the security forces of sexually assaulting women.
In a message from Evin prison where she is being held, Mohammadi said the trial relates to an audio post, in which she condemned a "full-scale war against women" by the Iranian regime, reports BBC.
Mohammadi has already served over 12 years in prison due to multiple convictions.
Her lawyer, Mostafa Nili, said the court would convene on Sunday to address the new charges of "spreading propaganda against the Islamic Republic".
There has been no comment on the case from Iranian officials.
In her message, posted on the Narges Foundation website, Ms Mohammadi said it was the fourth time in as many years she had been "dragged to the unjust and farcical courts&rsquo; table" due to her "protest and disclosure of the religious regime&rsquo;s men&rsquo;s sexual assault against women".
The 52-year old Nobel laureate continued that this time she was being tried for speaking against "the bruising of the body and narrating the assault on [journalist and student] Dina Ghalaibaf", in an audio message.
Ghalibaf was reportedly detained after she accused the security forces of handcuffing and sexually assaulting her during a previous arrest at a metro station.
She was later released.
Mohammadi is calling for a public trial with the presence of independent journalists, human rights activists, women&rsquo;s rights activists, and her lawyers.
She continued: "Witnesses, along with their lawyers, should be able to attend with guarantees of physical, mental, and legal security, and openly recount their assaults.&rdquo;
Mohammadi has tirelessly campaigned for women's rights in Iran. She has been in and out of jail for two decades because of her activism.
Her family has said that, as well as 12 years and three months of imprisonment, her sentences also include 154 lashes, two years of exile and various social and political restrictions.
She has not seen her Paris-based husband and children for several years.
Despite the numerous threats and arrests she has kept up her work to campaign against the mandatory headscarf.
She won the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her work fighting against the oppression of women in Iran.
Her teenage children accepted the prize, at Oslo's city hall in December, and read her speech which had been smuggled out of prison.
"I write this message from behind the high, cold walls of a prison. The Iranian people, with perseverance, will overcome repression and authoritarianism," Ms Mohammadi said.
She added that young Iranians had "transformed the streets and public spaces into a place of widespread civil resistance", alluding to the protests that began in 2022 following the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody for allegedly wearing her hijab "improperly".
The authorities in the Islamic Republic in recent weeks intensified a crackdown to enforce a strict Islamic dress code on women and arrest those who disobeyed, making use of video surveillance.

Iran Nobel laureate says she faces new trial

BSS/AFP

Manchester City go into their last match against West Ham with a two-point lead, knowing that victory would secure the title for an unprecedented fourth successive season.
If Arsenal beat Everton, a defeat or even a draw would not be enough for Pep Guardiola's men, who have an inferior goal difference by one. Arsenal, who also finished second behind City last year, are seeking to become English champions for the first time in 20 years. Guardiola's men have dropped just six points since mid-December, in draws against Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta's men have set a club record by winning 27 Premier League games this season, but that still might not be enough to dethrone City. "We have to give ourselves the opportunity to live a beautiful day on Sunday, where the dream is still alive and is possible," Arteta said. "It's football and once we are there we just have to live the moment."
European places
Liverpool and Aston Villa are secure in third and fourth -- which guarantee entry into the Champions League, leaving the remaining attention on qualification for next season's Europa League and Conference League. Tottenham need only a point away to relegated Sheffield United to guarantee fifth place, sending them directly to the Europa League group stage. Defeat would allow Chelsea, three points behind with a better goal difference, to leapfrog them by beating Bournemouth. Mauricio Pochettino's Blues would be secure in sixth with at least a point but defeat would open the door to Newcastle, who travel to Brentford. Manchester United, who play at Brighton, can realistically only climb to seventh due to their negative goal difference. Erik ten Hag's side need to better Newcastle's result to do so. However, they would also reach the Europa League by winning the FA Cup. Should City win that final next week, the cup winners' Europa League group-stage spot would pass to the sixth-placed finishers, with seventh place bringing Conference League football.
Relegation
Sheffield United and Burnley will be joined in the second-tier Championship next season by Luton, barring a spectacular combination of scorelines on the final day. Luton are three points behind Nottingham Forest and would need a win over Fulham, defeat for Forest against relegated Burnley and a huge swing in goal difference to survive. If Luton's fate is sealed then all three promoted teams will go straight back down for only the second time in the Premier League era.

City eye history as Arsenal dare to dream

Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani students have reportedly come under attack by violent mobs in Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek.
Pakistan's mission in Bishkek said a few hostels of medical universities in Bishkek, where students from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan reside, have been attacked amid the violence, which broke out on Friday night.
The Kyrgyz government said four foreign citizens have been arrested following mob violence in Bishkek on the night of May 17-18 that injured at least 28 people, including several foreigners, and appeared to be directed against foreign students and migrants.
The violence prompted diplomatic reactions from Pakistan and India, who have warned their students in Bishkek to remain indoors.
The violence broke out after a video purportedly showing Kyrgyz students fighting medical students from Egypt on May 13 was widely shared online, according to Radio Free Europe.
Mobs gathered in several spots in Bishkek on Friday night after users on social media claimed those who were beaten were Kyrgyz youths.
On Saturday, a number of Bangladeshi students reached out to UNB seeking help for their safety.
&ldquo;We are here, five Bangladeshi girls. We are inside our apartment right now. Some people are gathering in front of our apartment. Please help us," Samia Kabir, one of the Bangladeshi students at International School of Medicine, Kyrgyzstan, told UNB on Saturday evening.
"We have been asked by the authorities to stay inside. We hear some noises from other apartments nearby&hellip;some Pakistanis are likely to be there," Samia added.
"Our mission in Uzbekistan is looking into the matter. So far, we have not received any reports of injuries of any Bangladeshis. We are in touch with our Mission. We will share a complete report soon," a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka told UNB.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic in a statement said that at present the situation in Bishkek is "absolutely calm and fully under control".
"All necessary measures have been taken to ensure security and maintain peace and stability," it said.
It also asked representatives of the media, the blogging community and foreign colleagues to be guided only by official and verified information from the competent authorities of the Kyrgyz Republic.
One of the students, named Mustafa, who is living a bit far from the main city, told UNB that the number of Bangladeshi students is now over 1000 in Kyrgyzstan. &nbsp; He said they are relatively safer where he is than those who are living in Bishkek.
In some cases, students from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan live in the same hostels, putting them at risk together.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the situation was "calm" in Bishkek and advised students to stay in regular touch with the Indian Embassy.
"The situation is presently calm, but students are advised to stay indoors for the moment," the Indian Consulate tweeted.
Videos of the clashes have flooded social media since Friday night.
Kyrgyzstan has long been a favoured destination for students from South Asian nations for top-notch medical training. As per the Migration Data Portal, Kyrgyzstan hosted the highest number of international students (61,418) in 2021 among the five Central Asian countries.
There are multiple reasons why students flock to Kyrgyzstan, which has the best healthcare, education, and transportation facilities among Central Asian nations.
Cheap cost of living, wide availability of Subcontinental cuisine, a good student-teacher ratio, and no entrance fees are some of the facilities that attract MBBS students.

South Asian students, including Bangladeshis, endure night of horrors in Kyrgyz capital

There is no restriction on journalists entering Bangladesh Bank to get information, its Deputy Government Khurshid Alam said on Saturday.
"If you need information, you can go to the bank a hundred times," he said.
He came up with the remarks on the occasion of "Customer Awareness Week-2024" in Rangpur, held at the conference room of Panchagarh Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday afternoon.
"Each institution has a spokesperson. We have three. Go and talk to them for any kind of information."
"If you're not satisfied with the information, you can talk to the four deputy governors. We will give you the answer," he added.
Regarding free access, Khurshid Alam posed a question: "What is free access?"
Would any private company give anything freely to another company? &nbsp;There is no country in the world that allows so much access to legally recalled products.
"If you want to go alone, you can and the assigned officials will provide you with information, which is allowed under The Secrecy Act. However, it is not permitted if you want to get information about the secrecy of the state."
He urged journalists not to be misguided with any kind of propaganda.
Acknowledging the challenges of the emerging economy, he said we are moving forward with long strides.
Addressing the bankers, the deputy governor said that we have to advance the country with the economy. The finance sector is the lifeblood of the economy. You have to collect taxes from the customers, and at the same time, you have to keep an eye on them so that they are not harassed or dissatisfied.
"Bangladesh has now become a role model for many countries. The country is moving forward. There is no time to look back," he added.
Bangladesh Bank Executive Directors Nurul Amin and Ruhul Amin, Bangladesh Bank Financial Integrity and Customer Services Department Directors Liza Fahmida and Shayema Islam, Bank Asia Managing Director Shafiuzzaman also spoke on the occasion.

Journalists can frequent central bank for info, says deputy governor

Skipper Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli hit key knocks to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru seal the last play-off spot in the Indian Premier League with a 27-run win over defending champions Chennai Super Kings on Saturday.
Bengaluru posted 218-5 after Du Plessis, who hit 54, and Kohli, who smashed 47, laid the foundations for the total in a rain-hit innings at their home M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Chennai were held to 191-7 in reply and with both sides level on 14 points, Bengaluru went through to the play-offs on run-rate after a sixth win in a row.
"What a night! Such a great atmosphere," player of the match Du Plessis, who did a lap of honour with his team for the home fans, said.
"Just a pleasure to finish the season in front of the home crowd with a win."
Bengaluru will now play in the eliminator on Wednesday in Ahmedabad.
Table-toppers Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad had already made the play-offs, which will begin with the first qualifier on Tuesday in Ahmedabad.
The final is on May 26 in Chennai.
Rachin Ravindra hit 61 before Ravindra Jadeja, who made an unbeaten 42, and old warhorse M.S. Dhoni (25) gave Bengaluru a scare in a stand of 61 as Chennai fell short of the qualification mark.
The match could be Dhoni's last IPL outing as a player and also the final face-off between him and Kohli -- two legends of Indian cricket.
Dhoni, 42, was widely expected to retire after he led the team to a record-equalling fifth title last year, but vowed to come back for one more season after a knee operation.
Dhoni handed over the Chennai captaincy ahead of the season to Ruturaj Gaikwad, who won the toss and elected to field first in the virtual knockout for the final play-off place.
"Happy with the seven wins, couldn't get over the line though," said a disappointed Gaikwad.
Du Plessis stunner
Kohli, who leads the batting chart with 708 runs, and Du Plessis started on the offensive before rain halted their charge after the third over and suddenly the ball began to turn once play resumed.
Both openers waded their way through Chennai's spin charge from Maheesh Theekshana and Mitchell Santner as Kohli hit a couple of sixes.
New Zealand's Santner, a left-arm spinner, denied Kohli his fifty and got Du Plessis run out through a deflection from his finger at the non-strikers end.
Rajat Patidar, who hit 41, and Cameron Green, who struck an unbeaten 17-ball 38, then steadied the ship and hit back in a partnership of 71 off 28 balls.
Bengaluru returned strong with the ball and Glenn Maxwell struck on the first ball to send back Gaikwad for a duck.
Fast bowler Yash Dayal had Daryl Mitchell caught by Kohli to dent their chase.
But it was Du Plessis who pulled off a stunning one-handed airborne grab at mid-off to send back Santner.
Jadeja and Dhoni raised hopes of a turnaround as Chennai needed 17 off the last over to qualify but Dayal kept his calm to dismiss Dhoni and then gave away just one run.

RCB win six in row to make IPL play-offs, Chennai out

Heavy clashes and&nbsp;bombardment rocked Rafah on Saturday, as Israel pressed an assault against&nbsp;Hamas militants that has led hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee the southern Gaza city.
The Israeli military said its air forces hit more than 70 targets across&nbsp;the Gaza Strip while ground troops conducted "targeted raids" in eastern Rafah,&nbsp;killing 50 militants and locating dozens of tunnel shafts.
Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said it fired a&nbsp;barrage of rockets towards the Israeli city of Ashkelon and targeted an Israeli&nbsp;command centre at the Jabalia refugee camp in the north of the Gaza Strip.
An AFP reporter said air strikes and artillery shells pounded eastern Rafah&nbsp;as warplanes criss-crossed over the city on Gaza's border with Egypt.
More than 10 days into what the army called a "limited" operation in Rafah&nbsp;that sparked an exodus of Palestinians, fighting between Israeli forces and&nbsp;Palestinian militants has also flared again in northern Gaza.
Israel said in early January it had dismantled Hamas's command structure in&nbsp;the north, but the army said Hamas -- whose October 7 attack sparked the war --&nbsp;had been "in complete control here in Jabalia until we arrived a few days ago".
&nbsp;

Fierce fighting on streets of Gaza's Rafah

Twenty-three people trying to cross the&nbsp;Mediterranean to Europe from Tunisia have been missing for the past two weeks,&nbsp;the country's National Guard said in a statement on Saturday.
The National Guard, which oversees the North African country's coastguard,&nbsp;said searches were still under way after the group departed in early May.
"They set sail overnight between May 3 and 4" from the city of Nabeul, the&nbsp;statement said, adding that relatives of the missing only contacted the authorities 10 days later.
Acting on orders from prosecutors in Nabeul, the National Guard said it had&nbsp;arrested five people allegedly involved in organising the crossing.
It said two of the missing were related to some of the organisers.
Tunisia is a key departure point for irregular migrants who risk perilous&nbsp;sea journeys hoping to reach Europe.
More than 1,300 died or disappeared last year in shipwrecks, according to&nbsp;the Tunisian Forum for Social and Economic Rights (FTDES) non-governmental&nbsp;organisation.
Last week, authorities reported a 22.5 percent increase in the number of&nbsp;migrant interceptions, with more than 21,000 people prevented from leaving&nbsp;Tunisia or rescued during the first four months of 2024.
According to the National Guard, 21,545 people were intercepted between&nbsp;January 1 and April 30, compared with 17,576 over the same period last year.
Since January 1, the bodies of 291 shipwreck victims have been recovered&nbsp;compared with 572 last year in almost triple the number of operations (1,967 this year against 686 in 2023).
Last year, Tunisians accounted for the second largest number of irregular&nbsp;migrant arrivals in Italy, at 17,304 people, second only to Guineans at 18,204,&nbsp;Italian government figures show.
The increase in interceptions come after agreements between Tunisia and the&nbsp;European Union and Italy, who provide financial aid and economic cooperation&nbsp;deals in return for the debt-ridden country's commitment to curb migrant&nbsp;departures.
Tunisia has also been shaken by political tensions after President Kais&nbsp;Saied orchestrated a sweeping power grab in July 2021.

23 missing for two weeks off Tunisia: officials

Bangladeshi students in Kyrgyz Republic have been advised to stay indoors for the moment and get in touch with the Bangladesh embassy in Uzbekistan.
The Bangladesh Uzbekistan embassy, concurrently accredited to the Kyrgyz Republic, suggested the Bangladeshi students to contact at the following 24x7 emergency number +998930009780 for any issue, said a foreign ministry press release Sarturday. &nbsp; "The Embassy of Bangladesh in Uzbekistan is in communication with Bangladeshi students, currently studying in Kyrgyz Republic, regarding the recent incident of mob violence in Bishkek," said the release. &nbsp; The mission said that the situation in Kyrgyzstan is under control of the law enforcing agencies as per information released by the relevant state authorities.
The Embassy is also in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyz Republic on this matter, said the release.

Bangladeshi students in Kyrgyz advised to stay indoor

Bangladesh Bank lost its ability, to make independent decisions for the banking sector, and it&rsquo;s now operating to implement decisions of outsiders, which is unable to resolve the crisis in the banking sector, said&nbsp;eminent economist Fahmida Khatun.
The executive director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) made these remarks on Saturday (18 May) while speaking as the chief guest at the shadow parliament debate competition organised by the Debate for Democracy at the FDC Auditorium, in the capital.
&ldquo;The culture of transparency and accountability is being lost in various regulatory bodies, including the central bank. As a result, the institutions are not able to fulfill the responsibilities, that the state assigned to them," said Dr Fahmida.
Currently, the anarchy in the banking sector has reached such a level that the decision to merge banks has to be taken on the advice of the IMF, she pointed out.
However, due to a lack of prior preparation, integration has been challenged. Forced bank mergers may not be sustainable. The banking sector has lost its ability to support the overall economy due to a lack of good governance, said Dr Fahmida.
She said that people have lost confidence in the banking sector. The central bank even cannot provide any guarantee to keep the deposits in the bank safe
As a result, there has been concern among depositors. Those responsible for the haemorrhaging of the banking sector remain untouchable. People are not able to know the correct information about defaulted loans in the banking sector from the BB, Dr. Fahmida opined.
Referring to the Bangladesh Bank's recent decision to restrict the entry of journalists, Chairman of Debate for Democracy Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiran said the central bank owes them (journalists) an explanation.
&ldquo;Journalists have played a major role in publishing news of major irregularities in the country's financial sector, it is not a crime, but their professional responsibility to highlight any irregularities [of the banking sector] in the media, including the heist in the BB's reserves,&rdquo; the state minister said.

BB lost ability to make independent decisions for country’s economy: Dr Fahmida Khatun

Rail stations will be built in every district of Bangladesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to realise Bangabandhu's dream, Railway Minister Zillul Hakim said on Saturday.
All stations and lines will be renovated to facilitate connectivity in the public interest, he said.
He said this while visiting the site office of the broad gauge railway construction project from Madhukhali via Kamarkhali to Magura this afternoon and inspecting the progress of the project.
Later, the minister visited the under-construction railway bridge on Madhumati River, broad gauge railway and Magura's Ramnagar Thakurbari railway station areas.
Lawmaker Dr Biren Shikder, Secretary of the Ministry of Railways Dr. Md Humayun Kabir, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Abu Naser Baig, Superintendent of Police Mashiudullah Reza, Magura District Council Chairman and District Awami League General Secretary Pankaj Kumar Kundu, were also present.

Every district to get rail station, Minister Zillul Hakim says

Silmoon Pipe and Fittings have entered the market with a commitment to serving customers with high-quality plastic products.
The product was officially launched at an event held at the Gulshan Club in the capital, inaugurated by Silmoon&rsquo;s Chairman, Abdus Samad Labu, who is also the vice chairman of S Alam Group and Ekushey TV.
The event was organised under the slogan &ldquo;Tension-Free Life with the Right Pipe,&rdquo; and Silmoon&rsquo;s Managing Director assured the audience of the product&rsquo;s quality and affordability.&nbsp;
At the event, Abdus Samad Labu emphasised that Silmoon Pipe and Fittings will play a significant role in the plastic industry by maintaining high-quality standards.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The use of plastic products is increasing in the country, especially in the construction sector. With the customer in mind, Silmoon Pipe and Fittings have been introduced to the market,&rdquo; he said.
Additionally, a 26% discount was announced in celebration of the launch.
The launch event was attended by Silmoon&rsquo;s dealers, sales staff, and senior officials.

Silmoon Pipes and Fittings enters market with commitment to quality

The Bangladesh Jewelers Association (BAJUS) has increased the price of 22-carat gold by Tk1,178 per bhori, setting the new price at Tk1,18,460.&nbsp;
This change will be effective from Sunday, BAJUS announced in a press release this evening (18 May).
According to the new rates, 21-carat gold is now Tk1,13,082 per bhori, 18-carat gold is Tk96,916 per bhori, and traditional method gold is Tk80,131 per bhori.
The adjustment is due to an increase in the price of pure gold in the local market, BAJUS said.
Earlier on 11 May, the price of 22-carat gold was Tk1,17,282 per bhori. The prices for 21-carat, 18-carat, and traditional method gold were Tk1,11,951, Tk95,960, and Tk79,339 per bhori, respectively.
This year, gold prices have been adjusted 23 times, with 12 increases and 11 decreases.&nbsp;
In 2023, prices were adjusted 29 times.

Gold prices hike again, 22-carat now Tk1,18,460 per bhori

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun today said by following the 'zero-tolerance' policy of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, militancy and terrorism have been brought under control in the country.
IGP said this while talking to reporters after inaugurating the Liberation War-themed terracotta 'Mrityunjai' at Moulvibazar District Police Lines and 'Bangabandhu Corner' at the District Superintendent of Police today, said a press release here.
He said there was a rise of militancy and terrorism in the country. Today, with the cooperation of all, Bangladesh Police has been able to maintain law and order in the country.
"In response to Bangabandhu's clarion call, on the night of March 25, 1971, the Bengali policemen at the Rajarbagh Police Lines mounted the first armed resistance against the Pakistani invaders forces with the only weapon 'Three Not Three' Rifles, he said.
The police chief said motivated by patriotism, every member of the Bangladesh Police is committed to ensuring safety of the people by keeping the spirit of the great liberation war alive.
DIG of Sylhet Range Sha Migan Shafiur Rahman, Sylhet Metropolitan police Commissioner Md. Zakir Hossain Khan, Superintendent of police of Moulvibazar district Md. Manjur Rahman and other officials were present in the function.

Militancy, terrorism now under control: IGP

Two cousins were killed and four others injured by lightning strike at Noabari village in Birbashinda union under Kalihati upazila of the district today.
The deceased were identified as Afzal Hossain, 52, and his cousin Amir Hossain, 50. They are residents of Chakdafarpur village of Pirganj upazila of Dinajpur district.
According to the locals, six workers, including Afzal and Amir, were harvesting paddy in the field of Hazrat Ali in the area early on Saturday morning. When it started to rain around 9:30am, lightning struck Afzal and Amir as they were running home from the paddy field. They died on the spot and four others were injured, sub-inspector (SI) of Kalihati Police Station Rajib said.
The injured were taken to Kalihati Upazila Health Complex, he added.
Md Sohrab Ali, union parishad Chairman of Birbashinda Union, said Afzal and Amir had rented a room at Awliabad Bazar and had been harvesting paddy in many nearby areas for the past week.

2 cousins killed in Tangail lightning strike

AFP/BSS

Indian eminent film actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, in her second appearance at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, once again opted for a gown by designer duo Falguni Shane Peacock.
Aishwarya wore a shimmery blue and silver gown as she walked the red carpet on Friday for the screening of acclaimed filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos' latest feature "Kinds of Kindness", starring two-time Oscar winner Emma Stone.
The outfit boasted a sweeping trail and bold, dramatic shoulders, featuring metallic fringe.&nbsp;
The actress had a cast on her right hand that she has been wearing for an unspecified injury.

Cannes 2024: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan walks in blue-silver gown in second appearance

Jute and Textile Minister Jahangir Kabir Nanak today said the government is working tirelessly to return previous glory of golden fibre (jute).
Terming Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as labourer friendly and she is working for their welbeing, the minister said while addressing a press breifing after visiting a number of Jute and Textile Mills here.
The minister said that the Prime Minister have already paid all the dues of the labourers amid closed jute mills in the region.
Nanak, who is also a presidium member of Bangladesh Awami League, said that the leasee jute mills would not be able to showcase the expected result. The ministry can take new decision as the leasee of the mills can&rsquo;t fulfill lease conditions, Nanank added.
He, however, said the main condition of lease was to produce adequate jute goods &nbsp;and to create job opportunity of previous skilled labourers.
Besides, the government is considering to build economic zone of the lands of closed jute mills, he added.
Earlier, the Textile and Jute Minister visited Daulatpur Jute Mill, Platinum Jubilee Jute Mill, Crescent Jute Mill, Khalishpur Jute Mill under the BJMC and Khulna Textile Mill under the BTMC of the Ministry.
Mayor of Khulna City Corporation(KCC) Talukder Abdul Khaleque, Parliament member of Khulna-3 constituency S M Kamal Hossain, Chairman of BJMC Faruk Ahmed, Chairman of BTMC Brig Gen Zia, among others, were present.
The Textile and Jute Minister Jahangir Kabir Nanak later exchenged views with the members of Bangladesh Jute Association(BJA) at a hotel here as chief guest.
He urged the BJA members to work unitedly to reduce dependency of jute yield import.
Terming the farmers are growing 1,500 metric tonnes of jute yield across the country in a year and the remained 4,500 metric tonnes jute yeild has been collected from India as 5,000 jute yeild is needed in the country, he said, adding that we should inspire our fermers to produce huge jute yield in the country.
Chaired by the Chairman of BJMC Farhad Ahmed Akand, KCC Mayor Talukder Abdul Khaleque and Parliament Member S M Kamal Hossain addressed the meeting as special guests.

Govt is working to return glorious days of golden fibre: Nanak

Press Release

Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC organised a webinar on &lsquo;Compliance of Shari&lsquo;ah in Banking Operations&rsquo; on 15 May.&nbsp;
Dr Tanveer Ahmad, vice chairman of the bank addressed the webinar as chief guest, reads a press release.&nbsp;
Presided over by Mohammed Monirul Moula, Managing Director of the bank, Mawlana Obaid Ullah Hamzah, Chairman, Shari&lsquo;ah Supervisory Committee of the Bank addressed the webinar as chief discussant.
Dr. Mohammad Abdus Samad, Member Secretary of Shari`ah Supervisory Committee addressed as special guest. Muhammad Qaisar Ali, Additional Managing Director addressed the welcome speech while Md. Shamsuddoha, Executive Vice President presented key note on the topic. J.Q.M. Habibullah, FCS &amp; Md. Altaf Hossain, Additional Managing Directors, Mohammed Shabbir, Kazi Md. Rezaul Karim, Miftah Uddin &amp; Dr. Md. Abdullah Al Mamun, Deputy Managing Directors, Taher Ahmed Chowdhury, CAMLCO and Md. Nazrul Islam, Principal of IBTRA along with executives and officials of head office, IBTRA &amp; eight corporate Branches attended the webinar.

IBBL holds webinar on Shari‘ah  awareness

Embracing the Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) compliance framework is essential for businesses in Bangladesh to align their values and strategies with sustainability objectives, foster economic growth, and remain competitive beyond LDC graduation, said DCCI President Ashraf Ahmed.
He highlighted these points during a roundtable discussion titled &ldquo;Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities of ESG Compliance in Bangladesh,&rdquo; organized by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry (DCCI) on Saturday (May 18).
Ashraf Ahmed emphasised that as Bangladesh becomes more interconnected with the global economy and its international trade continues to grow, ESG compliance is becoming mandatory for businesses. Investors consider ESG factors when assessing a business's potential as they indicate resilience and long-term financial health.
He pointed out the increasing trend of ESG reporting in Bangladesh. Various organizations across different industries have started reporting on their ESG performance, and government bodies have also initiated efforts to promote and encourage ESG reporting. Recognizing the importance of ESG compliance, he recommended developing effective ESG compliance strategies aligned with the global value chain and integrating ESG considerations into decision-making processes and organizational culture.
He underscored the need to educate stakeholders, including employees, management, investors, regulators, and the public, about the importance of ESG compliance and its reporting. Furthermore, ESG compliance should be embedded in other policies such as industrial policy and SME policy, he added.
Md Munim Hassan, Director General, Department of Patent, Design &amp; Trademarks, Ministry of Industries, emphasized that compliance is mandatory in every sector and enhances business credibility. He stressed personal responsibility for environmental and social compliance and noted significant progress in Bangladesh's GI (Geographical Indication) certifications.
Md Anwarul Alam, Director General (Additional Secretary), Bangladesh Accreditation Board (BAB), Ministry of Industries, stated that the BAB is directly linked with ESG, ensuring the quality of goods and services with worldwide acceptance of BAB&rsquo;s certification. He encouraged lab owners to seek accreditation from BAB and highlighted the interconnection between ESG and the vision of Smart Bangladesh.
Keynote speaker Zaku Uz Zaman, Country Representative for UNIDO, Bangladesh, explained that the term "ESG" emerged in the early 2000s, with roots in the 1990s. ESG evaluates a firm's engagement with environmental, social, and governance factors, and investors are increasingly focused on a company's societal impact. He noted the lack of a defined format for ESG reporting, which challenges management in understanding reporting requirements. Compliance with ESG reporting can help Bangladeshi companies remain competitive post-LDC graduation.
Other speakers, including Dr. M Niaz Asadullah, Visiting Professor of Economics at the University of Reading, UK; Mohammad Bin Quasem, Director of Echotex Ltd.; Yeasmin Akther, Business Manager at Knowledge, Health and Nutrition, SGS Bangladesh Limited; M. Abu Horairah, former Vice President of DCCI; Enamul Haque Patwary, former Director of DCCI; and Rashid Shah Shamrat, former Director of DCCI, also contributed to the discussion. They stressed the need for an ESG policy, creating awareness, and having a monitoring and reporting system. They suggested educating people about ESG, emphasizing environmental safety, and advocating for massive afforestation across the country. The speakers called for concerted efforts and the implementation of rules and regulations to enforce ESG in Bangladesh.

ESG compliance reporting standard essential to boost trade: DCCI president

Bangladeshi civil society organizations (CSOs) have raised concerns about the country's increasing debt and its implications for sustainability following Bangladesh's transition to a middle-income country.&nbsp;
They demanded a people-centric budget at an event held today (18 May) led by EquityBD.
&ldquo;The total FY 2024-25 budget will be Tk8.05 trillion including a debt of Tk2.75 trillion. The per capita debt is now US $580. The repayment of this unprecedented amount of debt will cause reductions in the lifeline of people,&rdquo; said Omour Faruk Bhuiya of BDCSO Process.
Ferdous Ara Rumee from the International Rural Women&rsquo;s Day Observation Committee stated, &ldquo;91% of people are involved in the informal sector employment where 95% are women. We must evaluate women's progress through the yearly gender-budget reporting system.&rdquo;
Mustafa Kamal Akanda of COAST Foundation criticized the budget allocation for roads and highways, saying, &ldquo;The total budget for roads and highways is 875 billion Taka while there is no allocation for safety in the road. The number of deaths in road accidents in 2023 is 8,505.&rdquo;
Mir Mohammad Ali of Shere Bangla Agricultural University highlighted the challenges facing fisherfolk, explaining, &ldquo;Fisheries and aquaculture employed nearly 1.4 million people but the budget hardly considers how the poor fisherfolk survive during three to four fishing ban periods across the year.&rdquo;
Pradip K Roy of the Online Knowledge Society stressed the need for investment in skilled human resources, stating, &ldquo;The government must allocate enough budget for skilled human resources if we want to take advantage of the demographic dividend by 2040.&rdquo;
Abul Hasan of EquityBD pointed out, &ldquo;Internal climate-induced migration is one of the biggest challenges for Bangladesh. Even after five years of migration strategy paper is developed, not enough investment is declared on it.&rdquo;
Hasan Mehedi of CLEAN emphasized, &ldquo;The government&rsquo;s 8th FYP planned to achieve at least 10% renewable energy by 2025, now only 3%. The allocation for power in the upcoming budget is 450 billion Taka hardly has the allocation to achieve the target.&rdquo;
Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, the Chief Moderator of EquityBD, concluded, &ldquo;The entire budget process in Bangladesh is undemocratic. Even the participation of the parliament members in the budget process is questionable.&rdquo;
The event, moderated by Mustafa Kamal Akanda of COAST Foundation, featured speakers from various organizations, including Bangladesh Krishok Federation, CLEAN, CSRL, NDF, Online Knowledge Society, Sundarban Bachao Andolon, Young Change Makers, and Water Keepers Bangladesh.

Bangladeshi CSOs demand people-centric budget for 2024-25

Reuters

Some Canadian provinces have logged a jump in unclaimed dead bodies in recent years, with next of kin citing funeral costs as a growing reason for not collecting loved ones' remains.
The phenomenon has prompted at least one province to build a new storage facility. Demand for memorial fundraisers has surged. The overall cost of a funeral in Canada at the top end has increased to about $8,800 from about $6,000 in 1998, according to industry trade group estimates.
In Ontario, Canada's most populous province, the number of unclaimed dead bodies rose to 1,183 in 2023 from 242 in 2013, said Dirk Huyer, the province's chief coroner.
In most of those cases, next of kin were identified but unable to claim the body for a variety of reasons, the most common being money. Finances went from being the reason for 20% of the total unclaimed bodies in 2022 to 24% in 2023.
"It's distressing because it's a person who has passed and there's nobody &ndash; family, friends, or others &ndash; that are in a position to be able to provide instructions or plans for that person after their death," Huyer said.
Officially, in Ontario, a body is deemed unclaimed after 24 hours. But the coroner's office staff may spend weeks trying to locate next of kin, he said. If the relatives confirm they are unable to claim a body, the local municipality works with a funeral home to provide a simple burial.
In the meantime the body is kept in a morgue or temperature-controlled storage facility.
"There's always been families that are in need of additional assistance. (But) I've never seen the number of unclaimed remains that currently exist," said Allan Cole, owner of the Toronto-based funeral home MacKinnon and Bowes.
In Quebec, the number of unclaimed bodies grew to 183 in 2023 from 66 in 2013. In Alberta, the number of bodies for whom no next of kin could be located to claim them rose to 200 in 2023 from 80 in 2016.
Historically, the Health Sciences Centre in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador did not encounter enough unclaimed remains to warrant long-term storage, a spokesperson for Newfoundland Health Services told Reuters.
Now, in the wake of an uproar over unclaimed bodies kept in freezers outside the hospital, the province is constructing a permanent storage unit to hold remains.
"People weren't claiming bodies because they realized they couldn't afford to bury them," said Jim Dinn, leader of the province's opposition New Democratic Party. "It's not about building a bigger storage unit: It's about addressing the underlying cause causing the accumulation of bodies and removing the barriers so people can have a dignified burial."
Location matters: An adult single grave with the Mount Pleasant Group on average costs $2,800, but the price in midtown Toronto was $34,000 as of April 1, according to the website of the cemetery, funeral and cremation provider across the Greater Toronto Area. The price excludes opening and closing of the grave, funeral, tombstone, taxes and other items.
A funeral can cost C$2,000 to C$12,000, said Funeral Services Association of Canada President Jeff Weafer, up from about C$1,800 to C$8,000 in 1998.
The number of memorial fundraisers on crowdfunding site GoFundMe has ballooned to 10,257 in 2023 from 36 in 2013, a spokesperson for the site said.
Government support for funerals has failed to keep pace with rising funeral costs, advocates have said. The federal government announced a C$2,500 top-up to the C$2,500 death benefit in the Canada Pension Plan in the April budget.
"Losing your life partner or spouse is devastating for a senior. It can also be an immense financial burden after a lifetime of hard work," Katherine Cuplinskas, press secretary for Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, wrote in an email.
"That is why we are strengthening the Canada Pension Plan to provide a top-up to the death benefit."
That is not enough, Weafer said.
"This is not a respectful end for Canadians," he said. "The reason deceased individuals are going unclaimed by their families is about affordability."

In Canada, bodies go unclaimed as costs put funerals out of reach

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Saturday stated that the defeated evil forces of foreign masters continue to make relentless efforts to tarnish the country's achievements even after 53 years of independence. He delivered this speech at the eighth council of the Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city.
&ldquo;After winning the bloody nine-month war under the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, we forgot the torture, exploitation, and deprivation of the past. However, the anti-independence forces could not forget the despair of their defeat,&rdquo; he said.
He also mentioned that these evil forces are engaged in various conspiracies against the country and its freedom, collaborating with foreign powers in efforts to destabilize the spirit of the Liberation War.
Referring to the assassination of Bangabandhu along with his family on August 15, 1975, as part of a domestic-foreign conspiracy by the defeated forces of the Liberation War, he said, &ldquo;We could not save the Father of the Nation. It is our unforgivable failure as a nation.&rdquo;
President Shahabuddin said the anti-independence faction embarked on a series of conspiracies to destroy the spirit of the Liberation War and independence, attempting to erase the principles and ideals of Bangabandhu after coming to power. They took shameful steps to distort the history of the Liberation War and independence.
&ldquo;Whenever they get a chance, they want to strike like a poisonous snake. They do not believe in the country&rsquo;s development, democracy, human rights, or tolerance,&rdquo; he said.
He added that these forces want to use the country and its people for their own benefit and that of their local and foreign masters.
The President urged everyone to build an all-out resistance against the defeated forces of 1971 to continue the current development spree and maintain the country's independence and sovereignty.
&ldquo;There is no alternative to strong unity among all pro-liberation forces,&rdquo; he said, adding that everyone must work for the interests of the country and its people, putting aside individual and group interests.
He said those who spread negative propaganda about Bangladesh mainly aim to hinder its development journey.
Stressing the need to strengthen social bonds between religious and ethnic communities, he said any form of discrimination against citizens is against the rule of law.
&ldquo;It must be remembered that awareness, humanity, human rights, and respect for the beliefs and lifestyles of others strengthen social bonds among different groups in society,&rdquo; he added.
He urged the government as well as civil society to play an effective role in ensuring that no one is discriminated against regardless of religion, caste, or community.

Defeated evil force still active to tarnish country’s achievements: President

Bangladesh actively participated in the World Bank Land Conference 2024, held at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, DC from May 13 to 17. This marked Bangladesh&rsquo;s inaugural participation in the conference, during which it showcased the 'Smart Land Service' program.
The theme of the conference was &ldquo;Securing Land Tenure and Access for Climate Action.&rdquo;
About 1,500 representatives from government, non-government, and international organizations, academia, civil society, and various stakeholders discussed land ownership, land-related laws, land administration, and civil land services. They exchanged experiences, information, and knowledge at the conference.
Land Minister Narayon Chandra Chanda nominated Dr. Md. Jahid Hossain, Joint Secretary of the Digitization, Knowledge Management, and Performance (DKMP) Wing of the Ministry of Land, to represent Bangladesh at the Regional Operational Workshop session of the conference.
Under the direction of Land Ministry Secretary Md. Khalilur Rahman, it was decided to highlight the smart land management activities undertaken under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's special initiative 'Digital Bangladesh' at the conference.
The conference provided an opportunity to learn about technical achievements, challenges, and innovations in individual management workshops for different countries and regions of the world. On the final day of the conference, May 17, a day-long workshop titled &ldquo;Breaking Barriers: Access to Land and Poverty Reduction and Climate Resilience&rdquo; was held at the World Bank Headquarters Main Complex C2 Hall. Bangladesh participated in the workshop along with various countries from the East Asia, Pacific, and South Asia regions.
Land Minister Narayon Chandra commented on Bangladesh's successful participation in the World Bank Land Conference 2024, saying, &ldquo;Our presence at this conference reflects our unwavering commitment to land reforms through 'Smart Land Management' and the 'Bangladesh Digital Survey' under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. We will continue to work towards building a smart Bangladesh by providing citizens with land services using smart innovations.&rdquo;
Joint Secretary Jahid Hossain highlighted the 'Smart Land Service' programs of Bangladesh in the workshop. Currently, more than 10 land-related services are provided online to citizens through this program. He explained to the world how the digitization of land services has ensured the security and tenure of land ownership for millions of Bangladeshis.
At the conference, the initiatives of the Ministry of Land to increase citizen services and awareness in the land sector were highlighted. These initiatives include user-centric design, seamless integration with essential services, automation, efficient workflow management, critical analytics and reporting, robust digital security, and a commitment to an open data governance policy.
The Ministry of Land also shared information about plans for the integrated automation of registration, mutation, Khaitan (record of rights), and map updating following the transfer of land. Additionally, the increase in revenue in the land sector due to the digitization of land services was lauded at the conference.
The positive impact of the digitization of land services in Bangladesh on climate resilience, green growth, and urbanization generated significant interest among delegates from different countries. Bangladesh also gained valuable insights from the best practices of land management in other countries.
Notably, the Ministry of Land has already received international recognition by being awarded the United Nations Public Service Award in 2020 for the e-Mutation System and the ITU WSIS Prize in 2022 for the Digital Land Development Tax System.
The World Bank organizes the Land Conference as an international forum to direct and inform investments in the land sector, facilitate and advance multi-stakeholder dialogues and collaboration, advocate for evidence-driven policymaking, and share knowledge on emerging best practices and innovative research. The 2024 conference aimed to highlight effective strategies for securing land tenure and access in support of climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Bangladesh showcases smart land service initiatives at World Bank Land Conference 2024

Hundreds of protesters in Peru's capital marched on Friday to demand the scrapping of a new law that describes transgender people, among others, as having a mental illness so they can access health benefits.
Around 500 demonstrators peacefully walked the streets of downtown Lima, hoisting banners with slogans that read "No more stigmas" and "My identity is not a disease."
The law, which was approved administratively last week by the government of President Dina Boluarte, specifies that those who identify as transgender, along with "cross dressers" and "others with gender identity disorders," are considered to be diagnosed with "illnesses" that are eligible for mental health services via both public and private providers.
The protesters reached the health ministry offices, but no clashes were reported.
"Gender identities are no longer considered pathologies," said activist Gahela Cari Contreras, who accused Boluarte's government of trying to trample on the LGBTQ+ community's rights. "We're not going to let them."
Critics of the law have argued that its update of the country's PEAS health regulations was unnecessary, since existing rules already allowed for universal access to mental health services.
Government officials have sought to chalk up the controversy as a misunderstanding.
In a statement released shortly after the law was promulgated, the health ministry insisted that it rejects the stigmatization of LGBTQ+ people and that the legal language simply seeks to ensure more complete health coverage.
The ministry "categorically reaffirms respect for the dignity of the person and their free actions within the framework of human rights, providing health services for their benefit," according to the statement.
Despite the ministry's argument, the protesters were not persuaded and some medical experts advocated for the law to be corrected via an amendment.
"We don't see any need to incorporate diagnoses or pathologies that no longer exist into health insurance plans," said Pedro Riega Lopez, dean of Peru's CMP medical college and himself a doctor.

Peru protesters slam new insurance law that deems transgender people mentally ill

Taiwanese lawmakers shoved, tackled and hit each other in parliament on Friday in a bitter dispute about reforms to the chamber, just days before President-elect Lai Ching-te takes office without a legislative majority.
Even before votes started to be cast, some lawmakers screamed at and shoved each other outside the legislative chamber, before the action moved onto the floor of parliament itself.
In chaotic scenes, lawmakers surged around the speaker's seat, some leaping over tables and pulling colleagues to the floor. Though calm soon returned, there were more scuffles in the afternoon.
Lai, who is to be inaugurated on Monday, won January's election, but his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lost its majority in parliament.
The main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), has more seats than the DPP but not enough to form a majority on its own, so it has been working with small Taiwan People's Party (TPP) to promote their mutual ideas.
The opposition wants to give parliament greater scrutiny powers over the government, including a controversial proposal to criminalise officials who are deemed to make false statements in parliament.
The DPP says the KMT and TPP are improperly trying to force through the proposals without the customary consultation process in what the DPP calls "an unconstitutional abuse of power".
"Why are we opposed? We want to be able to have discussions, not for there to be only one voice in the country," DPP lawmaker Wang Mei-hui, representing the southern city of Chiayi, told Reuters.
Lawmakers from all three parties were involved in the altercations, and traded accusations about who was to blame.
The KMT's Jessica Chen, from the Taiwan-administered Kinmen islands that sit next to the Chinese coast, said the reforms were to enable better legislative oversight of the executive branch.
"The DPP does not want this to be passed as they have always been used to monopolising power," she told Reuters, wearing a military-style helmet.
Taiwan is a rambunctious democracy and fighting does on occasion take place in parliament. In 2020, KMT lawmakers threw pig guts onto the chamber's floor in a dispute over easing U.S. pork imports.
The clashes raise the prospect of more turmoil - and parliamentary conflict - ahead for Lai's new government after it takes office.
"I am worried," said the DPP's Wang.

Dramatic scenes In Taiwan parliament as MPs exchange blows, kicks

Bangladesh Bank (BB) has issued a clarification over recent reports regarding restrictions on journalists' entry to the central bank.
In a circular issued on Wednesday, the central bank stated that it considers disseminating information to the public a top priority.
In the clarification, it said the central bank appointed an executive director-level official as its spokesperson while two director-level officers were assigned as assistant spokespersons to provide information to the media.
It said any journalist could get information and take BB statements at the main building of the central bank during official hours through communication with the assigned officials.
In case of any special requirement, the journalists could get any information and explanation after collecting entry passes from the official concerned, it said.
At the same time, it said, the central bank kept on disseminating information through holding press conferences, issuing press releases and other ways on a regular basis.
Simultaneously, the BB had been regularly publishing all the economic information and data on its website to ensure free access to information, the BB statement said.

BB clarifies on journalists' access to central bank

Four people, including a woman and her son, were killed in separate incidents of lightning in Narsingdi. 
The incidents occurred in Charanchala Alok Bali Uttarpara and Hajipur, both in Sadar Upazila, around 10 am on Saturday, April 18.
The deceased are Sharifa Begum, 50, wife of Kamal Mia, her son Iqbal Hossain, 12, and Qayyum Mia, 22, son of Karam Ali, all residents of Alok Bali Uttarpara. Kamal Mia was seriously injured in the incident. Additionally, Moslehuddin, 50, died in Chakpara of Hajipur Union in Sadar Upazila.
Narsingdi Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Tanveer Ahmed said all the victims were in agricultural fields harvesting paddy when the lightning strikes occurred.
He said Sharifa Begum and her son Iqbal died on the spot while Qayyum Mia died on the way to Sadar Hospital from his injuries.
Kamal Hossain is currently receiving treatment, he added.

Mother, son among 4 killed in Narsingdi lightning strikes

Health Minister Dr Samanta Lal Sen has sought support from the Oxford Vaccine Group at the University of Oxford to establish a vaccine centre in Bangladesh.
He recently visited the university where the AstraZeneca vaccine was developed during the Covid pandemic.
During the visit, the minister met with the Director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, Professor Sir Andrew Pollard F MedSci, and discussed opportunities for establishing cooperation to create a National Vaccine Project in Bangladesh for producing vaccines in the country, said the Bangladesh High Commission in London on Saturday.
The health minister highlighted the Bangladesh government's vision under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to provide high-quality health services for all.
He also mentioned that her government aims to establish a vaccine centre in Bangladesh to produce vaccines.
Taking note of all the points raised by Minister Sen, Sir Andrew Pollard assured him of all cooperation in developing vaccines in Bangladesh.
The minister visited the drug discovery unit at Oxford University, where he met with senior researchers and high-ranking officials.
They discussed the potential for establishing a laboratory in Bangladesh for large-scale industrial production of vaccines.
They also talked about collaborating to provide training to scientists, doctors, and health professionals.
The minister met with Professor Sir David Warrell, a leading figure in tropical medicine and the founding director of the Centre for Tropical Medicine in Thailand at the invitation of the Thai king.
They discussed the prospect of producing antivenom in Bangladesh under EDCL to address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young researchers from Bangladesh who are studying in Oxford also attended the meeting.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK accompanied the health minister during the visit and the meetings.
Health Minister Dr Sen was in the UK on an official visit to attend the Conference on &ldquo;International Response to Antimicrobial Resistance,&rdquo; organised by the UK Government and the Royal Society.

Bangladesh seeks support of Oxford Vaccine Group to establish vaccine centre

At least 50 people are dead following a fresh bout of heavy rain and flooding in central Afghanistan, an official said on Saturday.
Mawlawi Abdul Hai Zaeem, the head of the information department for the central Ghor province, told Reuters that there was no information about how many people were injured in the rain spell that began on Friday, which had also cut off many key roads to the area.
Zaeem added that 2,000 houses were completely destroyed, 4,000 partially damaged, and more than 2,000 shops were under water in the province's capital, Feroz-Koh.
Last week, flash floods caused by heavy rains devastated villages in northern Afghanistan, killing 315 people and injuring more than 1,600, authorities said on Sunday.
On Wednesday, a helicopter used by the Afghan air force crashed due to "technical issues" during attempts to recover the bodies of people who had fallen into a river in Ghor province, killing one and injuring 12 people, the country's defence ministry said.
Afghanistan is prone to natural disasters and the United Nations considers it one of countries most vulnerable to climate change.
It has battled a shortfall in aid after the Taliban took over as foreign forces withdrew from the country in 2021, since development aid that formed the backbone of government finances was slashed.
The shortfall has worsened in subsequent years as foreign governments grapple with competing global crises and growing condemnation of the Taliban's curbs on Afghan women.

Fifty dead in heavy rain, floods in central Afghanistan, official says

Tourists normally have to pay big money and&nbsp;brave cold climates for a chance to see an aurora, but last weekend many&nbsp;people around the world simply had to look up to see these colourful displays&nbsp;dance across the sky.
Usually banished to the poles of Earth, the auroras strayed as far as Mexico,&nbsp;southern Europe and South Africa on the evening of May 10, delighting skygazers and filling social media with images of exuberant pinks, greens and purples.
But for those charged with protecting Earth from powerful solar storms such&nbsp;as the one that caused the auroras, a threat lurks beneath the stunning&nbsp;colours.
"We need to understand that behind this beauty, there is danger," Quentin&nbsp;Verspieren, the European Space Agency's space safety programme coordinator,&nbsp;told AFP.
Mike Bettwy of the US Space Weather Prediction Center said that "we're&nbsp;focused on the more sinister potential impacts" of solar storms, such as taking out power grids and satellites, or exposing astronauts to dangerous&nbsp;levels of radiation.
The latest auroras were caused by the most powerful geomagnetic storm since&nbsp;the "Halloween Storms" of October 2003, which sparked blackouts in Sweden and&nbsp;damaged power infrastructure in South Africa.
There appears to have been less damage from the latest solar storms, though&nbsp;it often takes weeks for satellite companies to reveal problems, Bettwy said.
There were reports that some self-driving farm tractors in the United States&nbsp;stopped in their tracks when their GPS guidance systems went out due to the&nbsp;storm, he told AFP.
- 'Definitely not over' -
These strange effects are caused by massive explosions on the surface of the&nbsp;Sun that shoot out plasma, radiation and even magnetic fields at incredibly&nbsp;fast speeds born on the solar wind.
The recent activity has come from a sunspot cluster 17 times the size of&nbsp;Earth which has continued raging over the week. On Tuesday it blasted out the&nbsp;strongest solar flare seen in years.
The sunspot has been turning towards the edge of the Sun's disc, so activity&nbsp;is expected to die down in the short term as its outbursts aim away from our&nbsp;planet.
But in roughly two weeks the sunspot will swing back around, again turning&nbsp;its gaze towards Earth.
In the meantime, another sunspot is "coming into view right now" which could&nbsp;trigger "major activity in the coming days", ESA space weather service&nbsp;coordinator Alexi Glover told AFP.
So the solar activity is "definitely not over", she added.
It is difficult to predict how violent these sunspots could be -- or whether&nbsp;they could spark further auroras.
But solar activity is only just approaching the peak of its roughly 11-year&nbsp;cycle, so the odds of another major storm are highest "between now and the&nbsp;end of next year", Bettwy said.
- What threat do solar storms pose? -
Geomagnetic storms such as the recent one create a magnetic charge of voltage&nbsp;and current, "essentially overloading" things like satellites and power&nbsp;grids, according to Bettwy.
The most famous example came in 1859 during the worst solar storm in recorded&nbsp;history, called the Carrington Event.
As well as stunning auroras, the storm caused sparks to fly off of telegraph&nbsp;stations. The charge that originated from the Sun was so strong that some&nbsp;telegraphs worked without being plugged into a power source.
So what would happen if such a powerful geomagnetic storm struck Earth again?
Bettwy said most countries have improved their power grids, which should&nbsp;prevent prolonged outages like those that hit Sweden in 2003 or Canada in&nbsp;1989.
Still, he suggested people have an emergency kit in case electricity is&nbsp;knocked out for a day or two. Fresh water might also help in case filtration plants go offline.
Astronauts are particularly at risk from radiation during extreme solar&nbsp;activity. Those on the International Space Station usually take the best&nbsp;shelter they can when a bad storm is expected.
Bettwy said a massive solar storm could expose astronauts to an "unhealthy&nbsp;dose" of radiation, but he did not think it would be lethal.
Emphasising that he did not want to "instil fear", Bettwy added that&nbsp;radiation can also potentially "get through the fuselage" of planes flying near the north pole.
Airlines sometimes change routes during extreme solar storms to avoid this&nbsp;happening, he added.
Several upcoming missions are expected to improve forecasting of the Sun's&nbsp;intense and unpredictable weather, aiming to give Earth more time to prepare.
If the ESA's Vigil mission, planned to launch in 2031, was in place today, it&nbsp;would give us far more information about the currently rotating sunspot, Glover said.

'Danger behind the beauty': More solar storms could be heading our way

Dhaka's green areas have decreased to 9% over the last 28 years, while wetlands have diminished to 2.9%, according to a study by the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP). 
This information was disclosed at a day-long conference marking the 52nd founding anniversary of the Center for Urban Studies, Dhaka, held at the Jatiya Chitrashala Auditorium on Saturday (May 18).
The BIP report indicates that as Dhaka's green areas and wetlands have decreased, the city's gray areas and concrete structures have increased. This shift has exacerbated the urban heat island effect, raising temperatures in urban areas. The study suggests that the reduction in greenery is a primary factor contributing to the ongoing heat wave in the country.
Urban planning standards recommend that an ideal city should have 25% green areas and 10-15% water bodies. However, due to global warming, temperatures in various parts of Dhaka city have increased by 5 to 6 degrees Celsius in the past year, whereas the expected rise was only 1 to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
BIP research shows that Dhaka's concrete-covered area was 64.99% in 1999, increased to 77.18% in 2009, and reached 81.82% in 2019. This increase has disrupted the overall environmental balance of the city.
Professor Md. Iqbal Sarwar from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Chittagong University highlighted the economic losses caused by heat waves, including decreased worker productivity, reduced agricultural output, disrupted industrial processes, and damage to infrastructure.
He noted that heat waves are considered extreme weather conditions with detrimental effects on human health. In 2024 alone, around 11 people have died across Bangladesh due to the severe heat wave.
The conference was presided over by Urban Research Center President Emeritus Prof. Nazrul Islam, with the chief guest being Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Tajul Islam. Speakers included Jahangirnagar University Professor Dr. Abul Kalam, BUET Professor Israt Islam, BIP President Adil Muhammad Khan, and Architect Iqbal Habib.

Dhaka's greenery shrinks to 9% in 28 years

A light rain drenched the capital on Saturday morning, offering city dwellers some relief from scorching heat.
The sky had been gloomy since early morning and the much-awaited downpour started around 8:30am.
Light rain was reported in different areas of the capital including Shyamoli, Jatrabari, Agargaon, Farmgate, Kawran Bazar, Asadgate, Mohammadpur, Dhanmondi, Jigatala, New Market, Kalyanpur and Banglamotor areas.
Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted rains or thundershowers in different parts of the country including Dhaka in 24 hours commencing at 9am on Saturday.
&ldquo;Rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind is likely at a few places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and at one or two places over Rajshahi, Rangpur and Barishal divisions with hails at isolated places,&rdquo; it said.

Light morning rain in parts of Dhaka brings some relief

The fire that broke out at the Dholaikhal branch of Mutual Trust Bank in Dhaka has been brought under control.&nbsp;
Five firefighting units from Sutrapur and Siddik Bazar fire stations doused the fire around 11:57am, Sutrapur fire station's Senior Station Officer Hasan Ali told the Bangladesh First.
The fire originated at 10:40am at the bank located on the second floor of a four-storey building in Dholaikhal.&nbsp;
Hasan Ali said it is suspected that a short circuit sparked the fire.

Fire at Mutual Trust Bank's Dholaikhal branch under control

Two workers were killed and 10 others injured when the truck they were riding in after harvesting paddy fell into a ditch in Tala upazila of Satkhira early on Saturday (May 18).&nbsp;
The incident occurred in the Harish Chandra Kati area on Tala-Paikgacha road.
The deceased are Saidul Islam, 38, son of Taleb Gazi from Baga village in Koira upazila, Khulna, and Monirul Islam, 30, son of Tofazzal Sardar from Madarbaria village in the same upazila.
Injured laborer Zahidul Islam said they had gone to Gopalganj to harvest paddy. After completing their work, they were returning home on a truck carrying the rice they had received as remuneration. Near the Harish Chandra Kati area, the truck overturned, causing two workers to be buried under the paddy sacks and die on the spot.
Zahidul added that at least ten people were injured in the accident.
Locals suggested that the accident might have been caused by holes dug for road expansion on both sides of the road.
Tala police station Officer-in-Charge Mominul Islam said the bodies of the deceased have been recovered and the injured were admitted to Tala Health Complex.

Paddy harvest: 2 workers killed, 10 injured as truck falls into ditch

A Malaysian recruitment company is being taken to the Industrial Court for failing to pay salary arrears amounting to Tk2.3 crore to 733 Bangladeshi workers.&nbsp;
Despite a directive issued by Malaysia's Human Resources Ministry on February 5 to settle the outstanding amount within 45 days, the company has not complied, reports The Star quoting a ministry statement on Friday (May 17).
The ministry said the case is being referred to the court under Section S69(4) of the Employment Act 1955. If found guilty, the employer could face fines of RM50,000 for each offence in addition to paying the arrears.
The claim proceedings revealed that although the workers were legally brought into the country, they were not provided with any jobs. The statement noted that ten investigation papers (IPs) have been opened on the company. Permission for prosecution has been obtained for four IPs, with further instructions pending on the others.
Additionally, the company's recruitment licence has been revoked, preventing it from accepting any new applications. Of the 733 affected workers, 692 have since secured employment through the Special Employers Exchange Process.
"The ministry will not compromise with any parties who flout labour laws and will ensure that the welfare of workers is always guaranteed," the statement concluded.

Malaysian firm faces court for unpaid wages to Bangladeshi workers

Dabney Coleman, a character actor who brought a glorious touch of smarm to the screen in playing comedic villains, mean-spirited bosses and outright jerks in films such as "9 to 5" and "Tootsie," has died at age 92.
Coleman "took his last earthly breath peacefully and exquisitely" in his Santa Monica, California home on Thursday, his daughter Quincy Coleman said in a statement on Friday on behalf of the family.
While best remembered for his arrogant, unctuous and uncaring characters, Coleman said it was all an act.
"It's me kidding around," Coleman once told the New York Times.
"That's just a guy that I'm playing, just to fool around, you know," he said.
Not all of Coleman's characters were cads. He won an Emmy playing a lawyer in the 1987 television movie "Sworn to Silence" and played Jane Fonda's decent dentist boyfriend in the 1981 film "On Golden Pond" and a federal security official in 1983's "War Games."
His final screen credit was playing John Dutton Sr. in the TV series "Yellowstone" in 2019.
Coleman was born on Jan. 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas. He studied law and served in the U.S. Army before trying acting.
His early work in the 1960s and 1970s included one-off roles in a variety of television shows, as well as a semi-regular part as Marlo Thomas' neighbor in "That Girl."
His first movie job was 1965's "The Slender Thread," directed by his acting teacher and friend, Sydney Pollack, who would later hire him for "Tootsie."
Coleman's breakout role - and the one he said was his favorite - came in 1976 on producer Norman Lear's TV series "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." He played Merle Jeeter, the creepy mayor who has an affair with the title character, in that soap-opera spoof and in spinoffs "Fernwood Tonight" and "Forever Fernwood."
His first big movie role - and the one that established his acting persona - was in 1980 as Franklin Hart, the sexist, egotistical business executive who harasses underlings played by Fonda, Dolly Parton and Lily Tomlin until they take him hostage and boost corporate productivity in "9 to 5."
Coleman was no more likeable two years later in "Tootsie" as a soap opera director who runs afoul of Dustin Hoffman's dressed-in-drag title character.
In 1983, he took the comic villain role even further in his first starring television role. In the short-lived sitcom "Buffalo Bill," he played a radio talk show host whose idea of a tender marriage proposal was: "You're better than 90 percent of those bimbos out there."
"It is fun to play those characters because they are so well-defined," Coleman told People magazine in 1983.
In the 1980s and 1990s, he also starred in the sitcoms "The Slap Maxwell Story" as a sportswriter, "Drexell's Class" as a corporate raider turned teacher and "Madman of the People" as a magazine columnist working for his daughter. None of the shows lasted more than two seasons.
More recent roles included HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" in 2010-11 as the man who once controlled Atlantic City, New Jersey. His part had to be rewritten when Coleman was diagnosed with throat cancer, which left him unable to speak at times.
A devoted tennis player, Coleman was twice married and divorced. He had four children with his second wife, actress Jean Hale.
"My father crafted his time here on earth with a curious mind, a generous heart, and a soul on fire with passion, desire and humor that tickled the funny bone of humanity," the statement from his daughter said.

Actor Dabney Coleman, villainous boss in '9 to 5,' dies at 92

Three Spanish tourists were killed and at least one Spaniard was injured in an attack by gunmen in Afghanistan's central Bamyan province, Spain's foreign ministry said on Friday.
Earlier on Friday, Taliban interior ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qaniee had said that three foreign tourists and one Afghan citizen had been killed in the attack.
Four foreign nationals and three Afghans were also injured in the attack when gunmen opened fire, he added. Four people have been arrested, he said.
The Spanish foreign ministry said that the consular emergency unit had been fully mobilised and the victims and their families were being assisted.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez wrote on social messaging platform X that he was "shocked by the news of the murder of Spanish tourists in Afghanistan". There was no immediate indication of why the attack happened.
Mountainous Bamyan is home to a UNESCO world heritage site and the remains of two giant Buddha statues which were blown up by the Taliban during their previous rule in 2001.
Since taking over Afghanistan in 2021 the Taliban have vowed to restore security and encourage a small but growing number of tourists trickling into the country and sell tickets to access the Buddha statues.
Friday's attack was among the most serious targeting foreign citizens since foreign forces left and the Taliban took over in 2021.
The Islamic State claimed an attack that injured Chinese citizens at a hotel popular with Chinese businessmen in Kabul in 2022.

Gunmen kill three Spanish tourists in Afghanistan's central Bamyan province

The White House said Friday that it had not seen any surprising advance in relations between China and Russia despite Vladimir Putin exchanging a hug with Xi Jinping on a visit to Beijing.
"Exchanging hugs? Well, that's nice for them," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told a briefing when asked about the significance of photos showing the two US adversaries locked in an embrace.
"I'm not good at talking about personal human bodily affection one way or the other. I think I'll leave it to these two gents to talk about why they thought it was good to hug one another," said Kirby, a naval admiral known for his dry remarks from the podium.
The United States has repeatedly voiced concerns about Chinese companies supplying Russia with technology for its invasion of Ukraine.
But Kirby said Putin's visit did not seem to have secured any major advances in this regard and Washington had not seen Xi "rush" to assist Moscow's armed forces.
"We didn't see anything coming out of this meeting that we were necessarily surprised by," he said.
But he added that "I wouldn't go so far as to say we weren't concerned about this relationship and where it's going. "We're watching."
Putin arrived Thursday on his first trip abroad since his March re-election, meeting Xi for talks in which the leaders framed their nations' ties as a stabilizing force in a chaotic world.
&nbsp;

'Nice for them': White House jokes about Putin, Xi meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with AFP on Friday warned Russia could intensify its offensive and said Kyiv would only accept a "fair peace" despite the West's calls for a quick solution.
Zelensky also repeated pleas for allies to send more air defence and fighter jets and said the "biggest advantage" for Russia was a ban on Ukraine using Western-donated weapons to strike Russian territory.
With a mobilisation law coming into force on Saturday, he admitted issues with staffing and "morale" in Ukrainian ranks, which have been often outgunned and outmanned as the third year of the war grinds on.
While Russian troops have made gradual advances in recent months, it has seen larger gains along the northeastern border in an offensive that began on May 10 in Kharkiv region.
But Zelensky said on Friday that Ukraine would hold its defensive lines and stop any major Russian breakthrough.
"No one is going to give up," said Zelensky, who has been the face of Ukraine's resistance against Russia since the invasion began in February 2022.
- 'Nonsense situation' -
Zelensky also rejected French President Emmanuel Macron's call for an Olympic truce during the Paris Games, saying it would hand an "advantage" to Moscow by giving it time to move around troops and artillery.
He said Ukraine and its Western allies had the "same values" but often "different views", particularly on what the end of the conflict might look like.
"We are in a nonsense situation where the West is afraid that Russia will lose the war. And it does not want Ukraine to lose it," Zelensky said.
"Everyone wants to find some model for the war to end faster," he said, when asked about the possibility of a scenario for ending hostilities like the one that established a dividing line on the Korean peninsula.
The president urged China and countries from the developing world to attend a peace summit with dozens of leaders being hosted by neutral Switzerland next month to which Russia has not been invited.
He said global players like China "have influence on Russia. And the more such countries we have on our side, on the side of the end of the war, I would say, the more Russia will have to move and reckon with."
The 46-year-old former comedian wore one of his trademark khaki outfits for the interview in Kyiv -- his first with foreign media since the start of Russia's Kharkiv region offensive.
"We want the war to end with a fair peace for us," while "the West wants the war to end. Period. As soon as possible. And for them, this is a fair peace," he said.
- 'First wave' of Russian offensive -
Zelensky said the situation in the Kharkiv region, where thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes, was "controlled" but "not stabilised".
An AFP estimate based on data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) showed Russian forces have advanced more than 278 square kilometres (107 square miles) in their offensive-- their biggest gains in a year and a half.
Zelensky said Russian troops had penetrated between five to 10 kilometres along the northeastern border before being stopped by Ukrainian forces.
Russia's offensive "could consist of several waves. There was the first wave" in Kharkiv region, he said.
Zelensky played down Russia's gains in the offensive so far but added: "We have to be sober and understand that they are going deeper into our territory. Not vice versa. And that's still their advantage."
- 'They are like a beast' - Speaking about the offensive during a visit to China on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said it was a response to Ukraine shelling border regions.
"I said publicly that if this continues, we will be forced to create a security zone," he said. When asked whether Russia planned to capture the city of Kharkiv, which has over a million inhabitants, Putin said: "As for Kharkiv, there are no such plans as of today."
But Zelensky said that Russian forces "want to attack" the city although they realise it would be "very difficult".
"They understand that we have forces that will fight for a long time," he said.
He also said Russia did not have enough forces for "a full-scale offensive on the capital like the one they had at the beginning of the offensive".
But he emphasised that Ukraine and its Western allies should not show weakness and called for the deployment of two Patriot batteries to defend the skies over the Kharkiv region and show Ukraine's resilience.
"They are like a beast... If they feel a weakness somewhere in this direction, they will press on," he said.
- 'Biggest advantage' for Russia -
In the interview, he said Ukraine only had "about 25 percent of what we need" to defend the country in terms of air defence.
He also said "120 to 130" F-16 fighter jets or other advanced aircraft were needed "in order to have parity" with Russia.
He was highly critical of restrictions on striking Russian territory with Western arms, although Britain and the United States have hinted in recent days that these bans could be eased.
"They can fire any weapons from their territory at ours. This is the biggest advantage that Russia has. We can't do anything to their systems, which are located on the territory of Russia, with Western weapons," he said.
When asked about the issue during a visit to Ukraine this week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that "ultimately Ukraine has to make decisions for itself about how it's going to conduct this war."
On a more personal note, Zelensky said his sense of professional pride and duty helped him keep going.
"I'm just a very responsible person. I was just raised to be such a person... I know that what I do, I have to do better than anyone else," he said.
But he said his comedy days were behind him: "I don't make anyone laugh. It seems to me that today it's the opposite."

Zelensky warns Russia could step up offensive: AFP interview

OpenAI on Friday confirmed that it has disbanded a team devoted to mitigating the long-term dangers of super-smart artificial intelligence.
OpenAI weeks ago began dissolving the so-called "superalignment" group, integrating members into other projects and research, according to the San Francisco-based firm.
Company co-founder Ilya Sutskever and team co-leader Jan Leike announced their departures from the ChatGPT-maker this week.
The dismantling of an OpenAI team focused on keeping sophisticated artificial intelligence under control comes as such technology faces increased scrutiny from regulators and fears mount regarding its dangers.
"OpenAI must become a safety-first AGI (artificial general intelligence) company," Leike wrote Friday in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
Leike called on all OpenAI employees to "act with the gravitas" warranted by what they are building.
OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman responded to Leike's post with one of his own, thanking him for his work at the company and saying he was sad to see Leike leave.
"He's right we have a lot more to do," Altman said. "We are committed to doing it."
Altman promised more on the topic in the coming days.
Sutskever said on X that he was leaving after almost a decade at OpenAI, whose "trajectory has been nothing short of miraculous."
"I'm confident that OpenAI will build AGI that is both safe and beneficial," he added, referring to computer technology that seeks to perform as well as -- or better than -- human cognition.
Sutskever, OpenAI's chief scientist, sat on the board that voted to remove fellow chief executive Altman in November last year.
The ousting threw the San Francisco-based startup into a tumult, with the OpenAI board hiring Altman back a few days later after staff and investors rebelled.
OpenAI early this week released a higher-performing and even more human-like version of the artificial intelligence technology that underpins ChatGPT, making it free to all users. "It feels like AI from the movies," Altman said in a blog post.
Altman has previously pointed to the Scarlett Johansson character in the movie "Her," where she voices an AI-based virtual assistant dating a man, as an inspiration for where he would like AI interactions to go.
The day will come when "digital brains will become as good and even better than our own," Sutskever said during a talk at a TED AI summit in San Francisco late last year.
"AGI will have a dramatic impact on every area of life."

OpenAI disbands team devoted to artificial intelligence risks

Nicholas Pooran starred in Lucknow Super Giants' 18-run victory over pre-tournament favourites Mumbai Indians in the last game of a disappointing Indian Premier League season for both teams Friday.
The maverick West Indies' wicketkeeper-batsman hit eight sixes in his 29-ball 75 to take Lucknow to 214-6 after Mumbai skipper Hardik Pandya won the toss and chose to field first.
Mumbai crashed to 196-6 despite an impressive start by openers Rohit Sharma and Dewald Brevis in their rain-interrupted chase.
Pandya said that it was "quite difficult" for five-time champions Mumbai, who finished the 10-team league in last spot.
"This season we didn't play good quality cricket and it cost us the whole season," Pandya said.
Lucknow too failed to qualify for the playoffs and ended the tournament in sixth spot.
Captain KL Rahul said that it was "very disappointing".
He blamed mid-season injuries to key players and said that they "didn't play well enough collectively and couldn't come together" as a team.
Earlier, Nuwan Thushara got Mumbai off to a great start and removed opener Devdutt Padikkal for a first ball duck.
Padikkal's partner Rahul stitched together a 48-run partnership with Australia's Marcus Stoinis, who fell to Piyush Chawla's leg-spin for a 22-ball 28 in the sixth over.
Chawla also removed Deepak Hooda (11) to reduce Lucknow to 69-3 by the 10th over.
Thushara finally removed Pooran in the 17th over to end his match-defining, 109-run partnership with Rahul.
He also removed rookie Arshad Khan (0) in the same over and finished with 3-28 in his four-over spell.
Chawla removed Rahul, who took 41 balls for his 55 runs, in the 18th over and finished with 3-29.
Key unbeaten cameos by Ayush Badoni (22) and Krunal Pandya (12) took Lucknow to 214-6.
Mumbai's openers took their team to 88 before Brevis fell for 23 in the ninth over.
India skipper Sharma top-scored with a 38-ball 68 with 10 fours and three sixes before he fell in the 11th over.
In between, Mumbai also lost their best T20 batsman, Suryakumar Yadav, for 0 and were reduced to 97-3 while out-of-form skipper Pandya fell for 16.
Indian rookie Naman Dhir hit five sixes and four fours in his unbeaten 28-ball 62.
Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who removed Sharma, and Afghanistan's Naveen-ul-Haq, who removed Brevis, took four key Mumbai wickets between them.

Pooran powers Lucknow to dead-rubber IPL win over hapless Mumbai

Speedster Shaheen Afridi believes Pakistan will come good in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 after missing out on success in the recent editions and has a good opportunity to win their second title.
Speaking to the PCB Podcast, the left-arm speedster opined that Pakistan were close to success after recent near misses in the 2021 and 2022 edition, reports ICC.
"It's not possible that you put in the hard yards, and you don't get the results. Like Lahore Qalandars put in the hard work for six years [in PSL]," Shaheen said. "They did the player development program as well and despite finishing at the bottom in the early years, they won back-to-back tournaments recently.
"And the Pakistan team is in a similar process, we're very close to achieving [T20] World Cup glory."
Shaheen recalled the previous two events, where Pakistan did well before faltering at the closing stages.
Shaheen was a central character in both the contests. In the 2021 Men's T20 World Cup semi-final, he was taken to the cleaners by Matthew Wade in the 19th over as Australia emerged as the eventual winners.
In the final of 2022, he injured his knee while fielding and couldn't complete his spell against England. His absence was felt as Pakistan were a bowler short and England managed to overcome a middle-over stutter to win their second title.
"You're disheartened if you get so close and still lose the World Cup. Both events were painful. We were hurt after the first loss [2021] and in the second event, I couldn't help the side because I was injured. I tried my best to come back [on the field] but I wasn't allowed to do so."
However, Shaheen added that this time, Pakistan are ready to overcome the disappointments of the previous events.
"Our efforts during the World Cup is to play in a united fashion. This isn't a time for disagreements. Everyone should follow the same process in a united way to achieve a singular goal."
Recalling newly appointed white-ball coach Gary Kirsten's words, Shaheen said the focus was on playing as a team over individual performances.
"Gary [Kirsten] told us, don't play for the name on the back of your jersey but for the badge in front of your shirt. And that stayed with me."
When asked about Pakistan's historic maiden T20 World Cup win against India in 2021, during which Shaheen played a crucial role with the wickets of India's top-order batters, the left-arm pacer recalled that he had contacted Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi before the game for advice.
"I called up Lala (Shahid Afridi) as his performance has always been the best against India. He advised me not to take any pressure, and to give my best. To ensure that my presence is felt on the field, to give my best in all departments: bowling, batting or fielding.
"So we tried our best, and achieved success."
Recalling his three crucial scalps, namely of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, Shaheen said the breakthroughs turned the game in favour of Pakistan.
"If you pick the first three wickets against any side, you essentially break their back because the top three are very important to set the tone.
"It's always my effort to attack more [with the new ball], and that's what I tried because if you get the early wickets you make it easier for your bowlers because the openers cannot get set and make the most of later overs."
After losing to Pakistan in 2021, India won their rematch in 2022 on the back of a brilliant 82* from Kohli. The two sides will meet again in the 2024 event on June 9 in New York.

We’re very close to achieving World Cup glory: Shaheen Afridi

Thirteen Western countries, including many traditionally supportive of Israel, appealed to it Friday not to launch a large-scale offensive on Rafah.
"We reiterate our opposition to a full-scale military operation in Rafah that would have catastrophic consequences on the civilian population," read the appeal, sent by the countries' foreign ministers to their Israeli counterpart Israel Katz and made public.
The signatories were Australia, Britain, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and EU member states Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden.
The ministers welcomed recent measures adopted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet to improve the flow of international aid into Gaza, but called for "further steps".
"We urge the Government of Israel to let the humanitarian aid enter into the Gaza strip through all relevant crossing points, including the one in Rafah," they said.
They called on Israel to take "concrete action for the protection of civilians, international and local humanitarian aid workers and journalists".
The appeal also called for "a sustainable ceasefire".
The ministers urged Israel to "open all possible overland supply routes into Gaza" for aid, to "resume electricity, water and telecommunication services", and boost significantly "the supply of critically needed goods... particularly medical supplies".
Finally, they called on Israel to "facilitate further evacuations by issuing exit permits for all our citizens, eligible persons, and Palestinians admitted to relocate for humanitarian or medical reasons abroad".
Eight months after the start of the war, Israel is vowing to intensify its ground offensive in Rafah despite international concerns for the hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in the southern city.
The Israeli siege of Gaza has brought dire shortages of food as well as safe water, medicines and fuel for its 2.4 million people.
The arrival of occasional aid convoys has slowed to a trickle since Israeli forces took control last week of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing.
The war broke out after the October 7 attack on southern Israel which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.
Out of 252 people taken hostage that day, 128 are still being held inside Gaza, including 38 who the army says are dead.
Israel vowed in response to crush Hamas and launched a military offensive on Gaza, where at least 35,303 people have been killed since the war erupted, according to data provided by the health ministry of Hamas-run territory.

13 Western countries urge restraint from Israel over Rafah

A 40-year-old school teacher was beaten to death allegedly by his cousins over a land dispute in Mymensingh's Phulpur upazila on Friday.
The victim was identified as Sajjat Hossain Kamal, &nbsp;headmaster of Gowatla Raghurampur Government Primary School.
The incident took place at Puran Nagar village of Baola Union of the upazila around 11am on Friday.
Locals said Kamal had a long-standing dispute with his uncle Abul Khair and his cousin Zakaria Gong over a piece of land.
On Friday morning, when &nbsp;Kamal went to irrigate the disputed land, his cousins beat him mercilessly, leaving him seriously injured.
He was rushed to Phulpur Upazila Health Complex where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Phulpur Police Station Mahbubur Rahman said police visited the spot after receiving the information.
The body was recovered and sent to Mymensingh Medical College morgue for an autopsy.
Police have detained three people including the cousin and aunt of Kamal for questioning, added the officer.

Headmaster beaten to death

Two cousins drowned in a pond at Mominpara area of Gomstapur upazila in Chapainawabganj district on Friday afternoon.
The deceased were identified as Farhana, 4, daughter of Mofizul Islam, and Fahim Ali, 3, son of Dawud Ali of the upazila.
Moin Uddin, sub-inspector (SI) of Gomstapur police station said that two children fell into the water body in the absence of family members when they were playing on the bank of the pond near their house at around 12:30pm.
At one stage of a frantic search that followed the discovery that they were missing, the bodies of the children were found floating in the pond.
"As there was no complaint from the families of the victims, the bodies were handed over in the afternoon," said the SI.

Two minor cousins drown in C'nawabganj village pond

Former Manchester United and Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez on Friday quit as coach of Argentinian club Independiente.
According to local media, the former Argentina international will lead the club for the last time on Sunday against Platense for the second match of the championship.
Tevez's departure comes after the club failed to qualify for the final phase of the Argentine League Cup and lost their first league match of the season 3-1 at home to Talleres de Cordoba.
The 40-year-old arrived at Independiente, a club from the province of Buenos Aires, last August and saved them from relegation.
His record was 14 wins, 11 draws and six defeats in 31 matches.
Despite a rich history seven-time Copa Libertadores winners Independiente are also struggling off the pitch with a financial crisis.
Before Independiente, Tevez made his coaching debut in 2022 with Rosario Central, resigning after five months due to differences with club management.
Tevez's playing career included successful stints in the Premier League with both Manchester clubs, as well as a spell with Juventus in Italy before his third and final playing contract with Boca Juniors.
At Manchester United he won two Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League.
He helped Manchester City win the 2011-12 Premier League, their first English league title since 1968.
At international level he won 76 caps for Argentina, and was a member of the 2004 Olympic gold medal-winning team.

Tevez quits as Independiente coach

China announced "historic" steps on Friday to stabilise its crisis-hit property sector, with the central bank facilitating 1 trillion yuan ($138 billion) in extra funding and easing mortgage rules, and local governments set to buy "some" apartments.
Investors hoped the measures marked the beginning of more decisive government intervention to compensate for waning demand for new and old apartments, to slow down falling prices and to reduce a growing stock of unsold homes.
Analysts have long called for the government to step in with its own purchases to prop up a sector which at its peak accounted for a fifth of GDP and remains a major drag on the world's second-biggest economy.
Since the property market began its steep downturn in 2021, a string of developers have defaulted, leaving scores of idle construction sites behind, and sapping confidence in what had for decades been the preferred savings instrument for the Chinese population.
China Real Estate Newspaper, a publication managed by the housing ministry, said the "heavyweight policies" marked "a significant historic moment" for the sector.
China's CSI 300 Real Estate index of shares jumped 9.1% on the announcements.
"It's a bold step," said Raymond Yeung, chief Greater China economist at ANZ, of the measures.
"The biggest problem is whether the government purchase programme will induce private sector demand. Clearing inventory will increase cash flow to developers and help their financial stability, but it does not address private sector confidence."
After waves of support measures over the past two years failed to put a floor under the property sector, China's housing ministry said local governments can instruct state-owned firms to buy "some" homes at "reasonable" prices.
Municipal financing vehicles, blamed for what Beijing calls "hidden debt," won't be allowed to buy.
The homes would be used to provide affordable housing, Vice Premier He Lifeng said, without giving a timeline or a target for the purchases.
He also said local governments, already some $9 trillion in debt, can repurchase land sold to developers, and promised that authorities will "fight hard" to complete stalled projects.
LARGE INVENTORY
China's central bank said it would set up a relending facility for affordable housing that it says would result in 500 billion yuan worth of bank financing. It would also further lower mortgage interest rates and downpayment requirements.
Additionally, it would make another 500 billion yuan available in its pledged supplementary lending facility to support policies including the redevelopment of some urban areas with older dwellings.
Officials did not provide an estimate of the total cost of state-directed housing purchases.
Goldman Sachs estimates saleable housing inventory at 13.5 trillion yuan at the end of 2023.
There were 391 million square metres (4.2 billion square feet) of new housing for sale in January-April, up 24% year-on-year, the latest official data show.
Analysts at Tianfeng Securities estimate it will cost around $1 trillion to buy the entire stock.
"The policies on clearing inventory are considered quite powerful compared to all previous ones," said a senior executive at a defaulted Shanghai-based developer, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the topic.
"Psychologically, it'd let investors think the government is 'paying the bill', and it is shifting the risks from property to banks and local governments."
Since the property market soured in 2021, China has lowered interest rates and down payments, while most cities have eased or removed prior purchase restrictions.
A whitelist developer funding programme for project completion is also struggling to get traction.
And a campaign flagged by Chinese authorities at a key political meeting last month to encourage people to replace their old apartments with new ones is off to a poor start.
Longer-term questions about housing demand persist in a country facing a severe demographic downturn and where 96% of households already own at least one home.
POOR DATA
The stock market's upbeat market reaction to the new measures contrasted with the harsh reality on the ground, highlighted by poor housing data earlier on Friday and a Hong Kong court hearing of a petition seeking the liquidation of embattled developer Country Garden.
The hearing was adjourned for Jun 11. Another major developer, China Evergrande, was ordered to be liquidated in January.
New home prices fell for a 10th consecutive month in April, by 0.6% month-on-month, the fastest decline since November 2014. Separate data showed property investment in the first four months of 2024 falling 9.8% from a year earlier.
Property sales by floor area in January-April logged a 20.2% slide year-on-year, while new construction starts fell 24.6%. Funds raised by developers were also down 24.9% year-on-year.
"Record high housing inventory and liquidity pressure on developers threaten financial stability ... and the still frail economic recovery," said Rocky Fan, economist at Guolian Securities.
"The policies seem to be designed to prevent further fallout of the property crisis, but it will take time to reverse the downward trend."

China unveils 'historic' steps to stabilise crisis-hit property sector

The napkin on which Barcelona promised to sign Lionel Messi when he was a 13-year-old has been sold for 762,400 pounds ($969,000, auction house Bonhams said on Friday.
The napkin was signed in December, 2000 by Barca's former sporting director Carles Rexach and transfer advisor Josep Minguella along with Argentine agent Horacio Gaggioli over lunch at a tennis club.
Messi became one of Barcelona's greatest players, winning over 30 trophies and leaving the Catalan club as their all-time leading scorer with 672 goals.
He also won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards for the world's best player and led Argentina to the World Cup crown in 2022. Messi now plays for U.S. club Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
"Yes, it's a paper napkin, but it's the famous napkin that was at the inception of Lionel Messi's career," Ian Ehling, the head of fine books and manuscripts at Bonhams New York, said in a statement.
"It changed the life of Messi, the future of FC Barcelona, and was instrumental in giving some of the most glorious moments of football to billions of fans around the globe."

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