United News of Bangladesh

Like every month, in June 2025, the popular global OTT platform Netflix presents a vibrant wave of entertaining content. The month welcomes a powerful lineup of fresh films, series, animations, literary adaptations, and long-awaited new seasons. From crime and thrillers to fantasy, drama, action, and comedy, every genre gets its spotlight. Let’s explore the best Netflix Originals coming this June. 10 Most-hyped Originals Arriving on Netflix this June . Barracuda Queens: Season 2 | Crime Drama | June 5, 2025 Written by Camilla Ahlgren, Sofie Forsman, Tove Forsman, and Veronica Zacco, this psychological thriller flourishes with Amanda Adolfsson as its creator and director. The series started with a story of a defiant group of young women pulling off burglaries as a radical escape from the roles society has forced upon them. Season 2 jumps five years ahead, from 1995 to the early 2000s. Lollo returns from Paris to a quieter life in Stockholm, reconnecting with old friends. But their past stirs again. To fund new ambitions, they dive into the high-stakes world of priceless art. Read more: Godzilla x Kong: Supernova Teased for 2027 with Another Epic Monster Clash Alva Bratt, Tindra Monsen, Sandra Zubovic, Sarah Gustafsson, Tea Stjarne, and Izabella Scorupco reprise their respective roles from the previous seasons. Frida Asp and Fatima Varhos oversee the production. Ginny & Georgia: Season 3 | Comedy Drama | June 5, 2025 Backed by Queen Fish Productions, Critical Content, Dynamic Television, and Madica, this comedy series boasts Sarah Lampert as its creator. Though Debra J. Fisher was the showrunner at first, Sarah Glinski had replaced her for the upcoming season. Last season closed with Georgia Miller being led into a police car. Now, the fierce young matriarch faces her toughest escape yet. Read more: Top Amazon Prime Originals to Binge-Watch in June 2025 Antonia Gentry returns as Ginny, alongside Brianne Howey, who once again embodies the complex, magnetic Georgia. Diesel La Torraca, Scott Porter, Felix Mallard, Sara Waisglass, Jennifer Robertson, Raymond Ablack, Katie Douglas, Chelsea Clark, and Nathan Mitchell are also back. New additions to the cast include Noah Lamanna and Ty Doran. Straw | Drama | June 6, 2025 A single mother finds herself swept into a web of misfortune, gradually becoming the focus of suspicion in a world that refuses to care. What begins as survival spirals into something she never imagined. With this plot, ‘Straw’ thrives with Tyler Perry as its director, writer, and producer. Read more: Suriya’s ‘Retro’ Roars: A Bold Comeback With Myth, Action, And Box Office Glory Led by Taraji P. Henson, the movie cast features Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor, Glynn Turman, Sinbad, and Rockmond Dunbar. Mercy For None | Crime Action | June 6, 2025 Produced by Studio N and Yong Film, this Korean drama is inspired by Oh Se-Hyeong’s web-comic ‘Gwangjang,’ illustrated by Kim Kyun-Tae. Choi Sung-Eun’s direction and Yoo Ki-Sung’s writing bring the film to vibrant life. Gong Myung, So Ji Sub, Huh Joon Ho, Ahn Kil Kang, and Lee Bum Soo round out the ensemble cast. The plot traces Nam Gi-Jun's life quietly, far from his violent past, until his brother’s mysterious death shatters that peace. To uncover the truth, he must return to the world he fled 11 years ago, confronting betrayal, buried pain, and the pull of vengeance. Read more: Carrie: A 49-Year-Old Stephen King Classic Set to Reboot Animal Farm | Fantasy Animation | June 9, 2025 Based on George Orwell’s beloved novella, this British animated fantasy film showcases the direction of Andy Serkis. He also lends his voice to an important character while also producing the movie with Adam Nagle, Dave Rosenbaum, and Jonathan Cavendish. Rupert Wyatt jointly crafted the story along with Serkis, and Nicholas Stoller steers the screenplay. The original tale centres on a group of animals who rise against their owners, seizing control of the farm in a bold act of rebellion. This marks the third film adaptation of the novel, following the 1954 animation and the 1999 live-action version. Read more: Now You See Me 3 Trailer: Did Viewers Get Actual Money? Other key voice-over artists are Seth Rogen, Steve Buscemi, Gaten Matarazzo, Woody Harrelson, Kieran Culkin, and Glenn Close. 

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday urged everyone to work together to achieve top-tier telecommunications and information technology services in every sector. He said the interim government is sincere in developing the country's telecommunication and information technology (IT) sectors and it has ensured transparency and accountability in all the activities of these sectors. The chief adviser made the statements on the eve of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, which is to be celebrated in the country on Saturday with the theme 'Gender Equality in Digital Transformation' "I am delighted to learn that World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is going to be celebrated on May 17 in Bangladesh like elsewhere in the world," he added. Prof Yunus seeks coordinated, effective steps to get rid of Ctg waterlogging The chief adviser said equal participation of men and women in all the sectors of digital transformation and utilization of telecommunication service and IT, is a prerequisite for building a discrimination-free and modern society. He added that the interim government is committed to ensure equal opportunities and rights for men and women in all the segments of digital transformation by upholding the spirit of July mass uprising, adding, "that is why I think the theme 'Gender Equality in Digital Transformation' was significant". Different information technology services are being launched through union information and service centers across the country, he said, adding  Initiatives have already been taken for 'She-STEM' training for female students and special freelancing training for women entrepreneurs. Prof Yunus sees ‘window of opportunity’ for changes in health sector Bangladesh is going to get connected to satellite-based high-speed internet networks, which is an important milestone in terms of ensuring continuous internet service across the country including the remote and inaccessible areas," he added. Prof Yunus  also expressed his firm belief that through united efforts, Bangladesh can become an inclusive, progressive, and equality-based nation, with digital equality at the forefront of development.  

Hasnat Abdullah, chief organizer of the southern region of the National Citizens Party (NCP), has said that if the advisers of the interim government believe there are any other reforms as important as the trial of the Awami League and the murderers (during July Uprising), they are mistaken. The trial of murderers is the main and first reform of this interim government, the NCP leader made the remarks during the July rally held in honor of the injured, martyred, and brave sons of Cumilla at the July uprising organized at the Cumilla District Shilpakala Academy on Friday evening. He expressed his desire to see this reform implemented first. Face The People Editor Saifur Rahman Sagar, Cumilla South District BNP convener Ashikur Rahman Mahmud Wasim, Joint Member Secretary Rifat Rashid, Joint Coordinator Tariqul Islam, Abu Baker Majumdar, and others spoke at the rally.

Chinese authorities have unveiled revised regulations to promote the healthy development of the country's catering sector, a key pillar of China's consumption-driven economy, as part of broader efforts to expand domestic demand and stimulate consumption. Jointly issued by the Ministry of Commerce and the National Development and Reform Commission, the updated rules include revisions that support industry development, prevent food waste, and enhance workplace safety. The regulations also encourage catering enterprises to strengthen international exchanges, accelerate digital transformation, and promote the preservation and innovation of local specialty cuisines. The revised rules are set to take effect on June 15. With more than 10 million catering businesses across the country, the sector has emerged as a key driver for domestic consumption. In 2024, China's catering businesses generated 5.57 trillion yuan (about 774.28 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue, accounting for over 11 percent of total retail sales of consumer goods, official data showed.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said on Friday that national unity is essential to address the country's ongoing challenges and pave the way for its reconstruction. During a seminar titled "Youth's Thoughts on Education, Health and Fundamental Rights" at Khulna Press Club, Salahuddin criticized the Awami League, asserting that it has devastated the country across all sectors over the past 16 years. They destroyed all sectors including social, political, economic, religious, sports, education, health. Election must not be delayed for any party’s convenience: BNP’s Nazrul He said that the Awami League formed governments in 2014, 2018 and 2024 by holding fraudulent elections and establishing fascism. "AL killed democracy and people had no fundamental rights. They did whatever they wanted by bypassing the constitution. Corruption was their main motto," he added. He mentioned that with the funds laundered through corruption—estimated to be sufficient to double the current education budget and triple the health sector budget—the country’s development could have been significantly better. Election likely between December and June: Press Secretary The BNP leader also said that countless members of opposition leaders and activists, including BNP members, have faced enforced disappearances, murders, and torture over the last 16 years. He further described the history of the Awami League as one of killing democracy, corruption, and money laundering.

National leaders have demanded that the Interim Government raise Bangladesh's water problem at the UN.  They raised the demand at a mass rally organized on Farakka Long March Day at National Shaheed Minar in the city  on Friday afternoon.  The mass rally was organized by IFC Bangladesh in collaboration with the New York-based International Farakka Committee (IFC).  iFC Bangladesh chapter President journalist Mostafa Kamal Majumdar presided over the rally. On 16 May 1996, Moulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, leader of the toiling masses led the long march and raised a strong voice against unilateral diversion of water of the Ganges. 'Raise voices against India's water aggression':  International Farakka Committee Addressing the mass rally as the chief guest Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, member BNP Standing Committee, called for demanding decommissioning of the Farakka Barrage over the Ganges, because it cannot be demolished as is commonly demanded for its adverse impacts on the environment and biodiversity in Bangladesh. He said the water diversion structures on 54 common rivers created severe problems of desertification, salinity and siltation affecting life and livelihood in Bangladesh.  The speakers in the rally said flows of none of the 54 shared rivers passing through Bangladesh, a land of rivers, is guaranteed even after 54 years of independence.  They mentioned that Bangladesh has suffered a serious environmental disaster due to the construction of dams or reservoirs upstream of all rivers and diversion of water elsewhere. They also said that the 30-year Ganga bondage Agreement signed by the autocratic government without guarantee and arbitration clauses will expire in December next year. Before that, it is important to renew this agreement with a guarantee of receiving the agreed amount of water and an arbitration clause. Farakka Long March Day to be observed May 16 Another important river, the Teesta, has been on hold for 14 years despite a promise to sign an agreement in 2011. During the dry season, the entire flow of the river is diverted from the Ghazal Doba Barrage in West Bengal, drying up the northern part of Bangladesh.  On the other hand, during the rainy season, all the water from the hilly slopes of the river is released, causing several devastating artificial floods in Bangladesh. This washes away crops, homes and homesteads and causes death to humans, draft animals and poultry. Due to the diversion of water through dams upstream of each of the remaining 52 shared rivers, one-third of the country's normal annual flooding is stopped during the rainy season, destroying aquatic biodiversity. Water lilies, snails, algae and native fish species that grow in floodplains have almost disappeared.  Due to the lack of normal flooding, the crop production capacity of floodplain lands has come down by half. This situation is gradually deteriorating. Among others,  IFC New York Chairman Syed Tipu Sultan, Jatiya Party Chairman Mustafa Jamal Haider, former Vice-Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Professor Jasim Uddin Ahmad, National Ganofront Coordinator Comrade Tipu Biswas, BNP Chairperson's Advisor Abdus Salam, Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BSD) leader Khalequzzaman, Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque, Gono Sanghati Andolan Chief Coordinator Jonayed Saki, Bhasani Anusari Parishad convener, Rafiqul Islam Bablu, Bangladesh Labour Party chairman, Mustafizur Rahman Iran, BFUJ Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury and DUJ President Shahidul Islam,  were also spoke in the rally. International Farakka Committee Bangladesh forms new executive committee They said, hundreds of rivers and tributaries have died due to the lack of normal flow during the dry season. As a result, due to the lack of fresh water flow on the southwestern coast of Bangladesh, salinity has penetrated more than 200 kilometers inland, causing serious damage to agriculture, industry, fish, trees and livestock. Due to the increase in salinity in the coastal water, the valuable Sundari trees of the Sundarbans are disappearing. Bangladesh, the largest delta in the world, formed by rivers for thousands of years, is about to be destroyed due to the lack of normal water flow of rivers. This is a serious existential crisis for Bangladesh. Seeing this situation, foreign environmentalists said that they do not understand why Bangladesh does not cry out. For the past 16 years, the autocratic government has been protecting the interests of neighboring India by sacrificing Bangladesh's just demands for water in exchange for the assurance of staying in power. This situation cannot be resolved through bilateral diplomacy. Therefore, the speakers said that if Bangladesh's water problem is to be solved, it must be raised at the United Nations. 

The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka on Friday organised an event to observe Youm-e-Tashakur, celebrating Pakistan’s resounding victory in Operation Bunyaan-um-Marsoos and Marka-e-Haq. The event paid rich tributes to the Armed Forces of Pakistan and the resilient people of the country for safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity against open aggression. The gathering offered special prayers for the martyrs of armed forces and for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the nation.

Dhaka Mohammedan SC came close to their first- ever title of Bashundhara Group Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Football outplaying relegated side Chittagong Abahani Limited by 4-1 goals at the Shaheed Dhirendranath Datta Stadium in Cumilla Friday afternoon.  With day's feat, the traditional black and white Mohammedan SC comfortably dominated the league securing 38 points from 15 matches and needed just a win in three remaining matches to clinch first ever professional league crown. The port city Chittagong Abahani Ltd already relegated from the premier league with just three points from 15 encounters. Six times champions Dhaka Abahani Ltd followed the leader distantly with 28 points from 14 matches and were almost out of the title race. In Cumilla, Nigerian forward  Emmanuel Sunday struck twice for Mohammedan in the 45th and 60th minutes, long serving Mali striker  Souleymane Diabate and Uzbekistan booter Muzzaffarov scored one each for Mohammedan in the 29th and 46th minutes respectively. Redwan Hussain Sumon netted the consolation goal for the port city team in the 74th minute. In the day's other match,  five times champions Bashundhara Kings suffered another defeat in the league losing to mediocre Bangladesh Police FC at their home ground of Bashundhara Kings Arena Friday afternoon. Local forward Dipok Roy scored the match winner for Police FC in the 60th minute with the frustration of home crowd. The Kings, which were earlier out of the title race, now remained at the 3rd slot with 25 points from 15 matches. In the day's other match, Brothers Union Club beat Youngmen's Club Fakirerpool also by 4-1 goals at the Shaheed Barkat Stadium in Gazipur Friday afternoon. Brothers Union Club and Police FC collected 23 points each from 15 matches to share the 4th and 5th place respectively.

The participation of Haier in the SAFE HVACR & Cold Chain expo is introducing a new dimension to commercial and residential climate control technology. SAFE HVACR & Cold Chain is the one and only dedicated exhibition on heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, air-filtration, purification, refrigeration systems, cold chain management system, solutions and services in Bangladesh.  The 10th Edition which began on May 15 at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) will end tomorrow. At this expo, Haier showcased its cutting-edge products through live demonstrations, featuring the MRV5 series VRF air conditioners, Light Commercial AC units, and Room Air Conditioners. Zamiruddin, frequent visitor shared his experience who is planning to buy latest model. He said he visited different stall to experience. "As part of the visit, I have also entered the Haer stall which have introduced the latest technology and briefed about the difference.This will help me buy the best one," he also said. Sellers informed that single modules from 8 to 42 HP with the ability to connect units up to a maximum of 126 HP (100.2 tons) will be ensured while it utilizes advanced DC inverter scroll compressors and fan motors to ensure energy savings and uninterrupted performance  They also informed that they use Four-Way Heat Exchanger where this new technology increases heat transfer efficiency by up to 30% and providing extended pipe connections which is flexible solutions for large buildings with connection lengths up to 1000 meters. Smart Link Wi-Fi Technology enables wireless communication between units while it maintains performance at heating mode down to -26°C and cooling mode up to 54°C. The company is also exhibiting  Light Commercial AC, Room Air Conditioner (RAC).  Inverter technology units ideal for restaurants, banks, clinics, retail shops, and other medium-sized commercial spaces, offering easy installation and energy efficiency while Haier’s room air conditioner range for personal and residential use features powerful cooling, inverter technology, fast cooling, and smart control systems. "By participating in this exhibition, we aimed not only to share product information but also to provide visitors with direct experience and confidence in the technology. Our objective was to present Haier’s high-quality products directly to customers and business partners," one of the seller at the stalls said.

A roundtable discussion titled "Current State, Protection and Preservation of Sonargaon's Archaeological Heritage" was held at the Sonargaon Press Club on Friday. Organized by the Sonargaon Committee for the Preservation of History, Heritage and Archaeological Resources, the event was presided over by poet Shahed Kayes, convener of the committee, with joint convener Mizanur Rahman moderating the session. The welcome speech was delivered by the committee's member secretary and writer, Robiul Hussain. Among others who spoke at the event were Sonargaon Press Club Vice President Fazle Rabbi Sohel, Sonargaon Sahitya Niketon President Asma Akhtari, Udichi Sonargaon branch President Shankar Prokash, Sonargaon Sahitya Niketon Advisor Motiur Rahman, Organizing Secretary Mofakkhar Sagar, Education and Research Secretary Moazzenul Haque, Press Club’s Publicity Secretary Khairul Alam Khokon, journalists Mokarram Mamun, Ershad Hossain Onno, Kamrul Islam Pappu, Sonargaon Sahitya Niketon Executive Member Rokeya Begum, cultural activists Shamima Nasrin, Khadija Akhter Mousumi, Pallabi Sarker, Md Rashed, and Iskandar Ali Alvi. During the meeting, poet Shahed Kayes presented a written statement outlining the current challenges and needs regarding Sonargaon’s archaeological sites. Speakers highlighted that Sonargaon, once the ancient capital of Bengal, is rich with scattered archaeological relics of historical significance. Many of these relics are already facing destruction due to neglect, they warned. The participants called for urgent steps to preserve and protect these sites. They urged the authorities to take necessary action to safeguard the remaining archaeological assets and to promote Sonargaon as a tourism-friendly heritage destination.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) on Thursday signed an agreement to modernise and digitise legal aid services across Bangladesh, aiming to ensure faster and more inclusive access to justice for vulnerable communities. The agreement was signed at the EU Delegation office in Dhaka by UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller and EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller, said a press release. Under the new initiative, an integrated legal aid system will be introduced featuring mobile applications, online case tracking and virtual mediation. The system is expected to enable citizens in remote and marginalised areas to access legal services without physically visiting courts. "This initiative marks a significant step forward in making justice more accessible for all,” said Stefan Liller. “Aligned closely with the ongoing justice sector reforms that UNDP and the EU are currently supporting, it builds upon our long-standing partnership in strengthening Village Courts, which already play a crucial role in resolving local disputes and serving rural communities." Initially, the project will be piloted in eight districts, targeting over 680,000 disadvantaged individuals. It will also prioritise inclusivity, gender-responsiveness, and accessibility for people with limited digital literacy. UN stands ready to help deliver lasting reform in Bangladesh: Gwyn Lewis  EU Ambassador Michael Miller said, “This agreement reflects the strong partnership between the Government of Bangladesh, the EU, and UNDP in improving access to justice for all. Whether through Village Courts or digital innovations, our joint efforts are creating a more efficient, inclusive, and responsive justice system.” The initiative will be implemented by the National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO) in collaboration with the UNDP and the EU. It aligns with Bangladesh’s 8th Five-Year Plan and contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. By introducing a unified digital platform accessible via phone, SMS, and online portals, the project also aims to reduce the burden on courts, enhance transparency, and build public trust in the justice system.

The government accepted the demands of Jagannath University (JnU) students, University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof SMA Faiz announced Friday evening. He broke the students’ hunger strike by offering them water at their protest site in Kakrail of the capital. “The government has accepted all the demands raised by the students of Jagannath University,” said Prof Faiz around 7pm, after arriving at the demonstration site. He said the authorities had been working throughout the day to resolve the issue. “The UGC is like a family—we will work together to address everything. We are committed to implementing all your demands.” JnU students begin mass hunger strike over housing, budget, campus expansion Prof Rois Uddin, General Secretary of the Jagannath University Teachers’ Association, said one of the key demands was action against those involved in the recent attack on students. “Police have expressed regret over the incident and pledged to take action against those responsible within seven days,” he said. He also noted that the government had agreed to all other demands, including an increase in the university’s operational budget. Besides, temporary dormitories will be constructed soon to address the ongoing accommodation crisis, while the implementation of the second campus will begin on a priority basis. These assurances were conveyed by the UGC following discussions with the Finance Ministry and the Chief Adviser’s Office. Earlier in the day, students launched their hunger strike at 3:45pm at the Kakrail intersection, dividing into groups by academic departments to press home their demands.

A woman was killed and 23 others were injured after a jeep fell into a hill stream in a remote area of Alikadam upazila in Bandarban district on Friday. The deceased was identified as Tanoya Murong, 25, daughter of Kralai Murong, resident of the 26-kilometre area on Thanchi road. The accident occurred around 11:30am in the Jobiram Para area along the Kalarjhiri–Marma Para road, said Mirza Zahid Uddin, officer-in-charge of Alikadam Police Station. A group of people from Thanchi upazila was travelling to attend an event in Kalarjhiri Marma Para when the driver lost control of the vehicle.  3 killed, two injured as freight tractor overturns in Rangamati The jeep veered off the road and fell into a nearby hill stream, leaving Tanoya dead on the spot. All the victims are residents of Thanchi upazila. Upon receiving the information, members of the Fire Service and Civil Defence, with the help of locals, rescued the injured and took them to Alikadam Upazila Health Complex. Of the injured, 11 were later shifted to Cox’s Bazar Medical College Hospital as their condition deteriorated.

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akter on Friday said that the Department of Livestock will deploy mobile veterinary clinics at the district level in cattle markets during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. “Veterinary surgeons will be present there to provide treatment,” said the adviser at a meeting with divisional fisheries and livestock officials at Rajshahi. She also stressed the need for limited medical services for humans in these markets. “We must ensure that those involved in the buying and selling of cattle and goats can travel safely,” she said. Railway urges not to setup cattle markets near tracks without prior approval Addressing concerns over illegal cross-border cattle smuggling, Farida said the ministry has already held a meeting to tighten vigilance. “Some dishonest traders will try to bring in foreign products [cattle]. This must be stopped,” she warned. She added that the home ministry has directed the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and River Police to strictly monitor the borders during the Eid season. Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Mohammad Ejaz, Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) Director General Faruk Wasif, Rajshahi Divisional Livestock Department Director Ananda Kumar Adhikari, Rajshahi Divisional Fisheries Department Director Md. Saifuddin Yahia, and other officials at various levels were present.

Haji Mohammad Salauddin Mia, senior journalist of The Daily Janakantha and Ekushey Television and a valiant freedom fighter, passed away at his residence in Keraniganj on Friday afternoon.  Cartoon Network Legend David Steven Cohen Passed Away He is survived by wife, two sons, one daughter and numerous admirers and well-wishers. He was also a former president of the Keraniganj Press Club. His namaz-e-janaza was held after Maghrib prayers today in his neighbourhood at Char Kutub. JnU students begin mass hunger strike over housing, budget, campus expansion

The Bangladesh Railway authorities urged all concerned to refrain from setting up cattle markets on or near railway tracks, land without prior approval ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. In a letter sent to the deputy commissioners of districts where such temporary markets are likely to be set up, the Railways ministry requested necessary steps to prevent unauthorised use of railway property, according to a press release issued on Friday. The letter said  cattle markets are often set up adjacent to railway tracks or on railway-owned land without adequate safety measures. This poses serious risks to public safety and train operations, potentially disrupting railway schedules during the Eid rush — an outcome the authorities emphasised must be avoided. The districts identified as having a higher likelihood of such temporary cattle markets include Moulvibazar, Bogura, Dinajpur, Gopalganj, Faridpur, Rajbari, Kushtia and Chuadanga. The letter further stated that the government is committed to protecting public property and ensuring safety. DNCC to collaborate with volunteers for conservation, greening of 33 canals in Dhaka It reiterated the government's firm stance against unauthorised cattle markets on or near railway land. It said if local circumstances necessitate setting up such markets near railway lines, several conditions must be strictly adhered to, said the release. Prior approval from the railway authorities is mandatory, lessees managing the markets must erect strong fencing using bamboo or other suitable materials at a safe distance from the railway tracks and this fencing must be installed in a manner that ensures unhindered train movement and public safety. Besides, local police and railway officials must coordinate under the supervision of the district administration to ensure safe train operations and the smooth movement of the public.

Defending champions Bangladesh smartly reached the final of the six-nation South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Men's U-19 Championship with unbeaten run eliminating Nepal by 2-1 goal in the first semifinal at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia, in the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh Friday afternoon Bangladesh will play final on Sunday (May 18)  against the winners of hosts India and the Maldives, who will face each other in the 2nd semifinal Friday (May 16) evening at the same venue. Bangladesh failed to  display their usual shot in the barren first half and  all the three goals were scored in the  in the competitive 2nd half . Nazmul Huda Faysal scored one goal and assisted  in the day's another goal.  Bhutan Women’s League: Paro FC Women’s earn a record breaking 28-0 goals victory against Samtse Women’s FC Ashiqur Rahman scored first for Bangladesh in the 74th minute by a brilliant header from handshake distance, utilizing  a corner kick off captain  Nazmul Huda Faysal  (1-0)   Nazmul Huda Faysal doubled the Bangladesh margin in the 81st minute by a cool shot from danger zone , utilizing a readymade pass from Manik (2-0)  In the last few minutes, Nepal regained their rhythm  and made some good attempts  towards Bangladesh and took its fruit in the 87th minute when their Sujan Dongal found the net by a cool shot from top of the small box (2-1).  SAFF U-19 Champs: Holders Bangladesh to play Nepal in first semifinal on Friday Earlier, Bangladesh emerged Group A champions to reach semifinal as an unbeaten team securing four points from two group matches beating Bhutan by 3-0 goals after making 2-2 draw with the Maldives in the opener.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Friday said the next general election is likely to be held between December and June. “All advisers, including the chief adviser, are working towards that goal,” he said. While speaking to journalists during a visit to the Magura Press Club, the press secretary also said the people of the country have expressed satisfaction in the decision related to Awami League, noting that the public’s expectations regarding the party have been met.  Election must not be delayed for any party’s convenience: BNP’s Nazrul "The country is on the right track. Law and order has improved — it's better than before," Shafiqul added. He said reform efforts are underway in sectors where necessary. “Major reforms have already been introduced in the economy, with more to come,” he noted. Regarding political reforms, Shafiqul Alam said that the Consensus Commission held several meetings, concluding its work on May 15. “Some are becoming impatient, but we believe our work remains focused and is progressing at the right pace in the right direction,” the press secretary added. Regarding media freedom, Shafiqul said that the government is not only advocating for freedom of speech but also working to ensure a dignified life for those working to uphold press freedom. Magura Press Club President Saidur Rahman presided over the views exchange meeting, moderated by General Secretary Shafiqul Islam Shafiq. Around fifty journalists from print and electronic media were present at the event.  Election delay due to fear of BNP coming to power: Mirza Abbas

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday that his country is committed to ending the war with Russia but he urged dozens of European leaders to ramp up sanctions if President Vladimir Putin continues to play for time in talks aimed at securing a truce. Russia and Ukraine were holding their first direct peace talks in three years, in the Turkish port city of Istanbul, but officials and observers expected them to yield little immediate progress on stopping the more than three-year war, AP reports.  Russia-Ukraine war is top of the agenda as European leaders meet in Albania on security concerns “Ukraine is ready to take all realistic steps to end this war,” Zelenskyy told leaders gathered for a summit of the European Political Community. But he warned: “If it turns out that the Russian delegation really is just theatrical and can’t deliver any results today, the world must respond.” That reaction, he said, should include "sanctions against Russia’s energy sector and banks.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed his call, saying in a summit speech that “Russia is dragging its feet and playing games.” “We must be prepared to follow through because if Russia won’t come to the negotiating table, Putin must pay the price,” he said, at the summit in the Albanian capital, Tirana. Zelenskyy's remarks came after Putin declined to attend face-to-face talks. “I think Putin made a mistake by sending a low level delegation,” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said as he arrived for the summit under a steady drizzle. “The ball is clearly in his part of the field now, in his court. He has to play ball. He has to be serious about wanting peace," Rutte added. European Union foreign chief Kaja Kallas said Putin was “playing games, which shows that they are not serious about peace.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said it was clear that “President Zelenskyy was ready to meet but President Putin never showed up, and this shows his true belief. So we will increase the pressure.” Von der Leyen said the EU is preparing a new package of sanctions. She said that the measures will target the shadow fleet of aging cargo vessels that Russia is using to bypass international sanctions and the Nord Stream pipeline consortium. Russia’s financial sector would also be targeted, she said. EU envoys have been working on the new sanctions package for several weeks, and the bloc’s foreign ministers could enact them as soon as Tuesday.  Delegations from Russia and Ukraine are set to hold their first peace talks in 3 years Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni stressed that efforts to reach a deal on Ukraine must continue. “I think ... that we must not throw in the towel. I think we must insist, we must insist for an unconditional ceasefire and a serious peace agreement that includes guarantees of security for Ukraine,” she said.

BNP senior leader Nazrul Islam Khan on Friday said the national election must not be delayed as the people’s fundamental right to vote cannot be compromised for the convenience of any political party or to give it time to reorganise. “Some may need time to organise their party, others may need time to gather allies and friends. That’s why the basic human rights of the people to vote will be delayed. This cannot happen,” he told a discussion. The BNP leader said they believe that their demand—to hold the election by December—is entirely logical and no one has been able to present any reasonable proposal or argument against it. “That is why I reiterate—there is no alternative to political power, and no substitute for an elected government in addressing, confronting, and resolving the various challenges facing this country. The sooner our interim government understands this, the better,” he said. Bangladesh Labour Party arranged the programme titled ‘Maulana Abdul Matin’s Role in Building an Exploitation-Free Society’ at the Jatiya Press Club, marking the 29th death anniversary of Bangladesh Labour Party founder Maulana Abdul Matin.  BNP raises alarm over election delay, demands clear roadmap or threatens protests Nazrul, a BNP Standing Committee Member, questioned the logic behind delaying the national election, asking the interim government to explain the obstacles to holding the election by December. He pointed out that National Consensus Commission vice chair Professor Ali Riaz has recently expressed optimism that after discussions with all political parties, they will be able to reach a point by May where it will be clear which reform proposals all political parties agree upon, and which proposals are subject to differing opinions. “If we can understand this by May, is it not possible by June… We put together the proposals on which we all agree and prepare a charter, and we all sign it and agree that the reforms should be implemented immediately,” the BNP leader said. Nazrul said the reforms which could be implemented through laws or ordinances should be carried out immediately, while those requiring constitutional amendments could be addressed by the next elected parliament. “If all political parties reached a consensus and signed a joint declaration, work would move forward based on that consensus. If such progress could be made by June—or even by July—he questioned what obstacle could possibly remain to prevent the election from being held by December,” he said.  Election delay due to fear of BNP coming to power: Mirza Abbas The BNP leader questioned the logic behind delaying the national election beyond December, saying that neither the Election Commission nor political realities justify such a delay. He also mentioned that the Election Commission itself has said it can complete all preparations by June. Nazrul said BNP and its like-minded parties had long proposed comprehensive reform agendas—from Ziaur Rahman’s 19-point programme to Tarique Rahman’s 27-point, and the 31-point state reform plan announced in 2023. He also said BNP is not against reform but fully in favour of it, adding that reform is a continuous process, not something to be completed all at once.

Vietnam has approved a $1.5 billion proposal by the Trump Organization and its Vietnamese partner to build golf courses, hotels and real estate projects in the Southeast Asian country, state-run media reported Friday. The project spanning 990 hectares (2,446 acres) in northern Vietnam's Khoai Chau district will include a golf course the size 336 American football fields, residential areas, commercial spaces and parks. The decision approving the investment was signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, the VN Express newspaper reported. Vietnam is heading into negotiations with the U.S. in a bid to avoid the 46% tariffs on its exports announced by President Donald Trump's administration. Vietnam also has been facing heat from Washington for not doing enough to prevent the diversion of Chinese goods through its borde The investment project was announced by Vietnamese real estate developer Kinhbac City, which partnered with Trump’s family business in October. Work on the project will start this year and continue till 2029. The Trump Organization did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday.

At least 93 people were killed by Israeli strikes in Gaza on Friday as US President Donald Trump wrapped up his regional trip. Strikes overnight hit across Gaza, including the outskirts of Deir al-Balah and the city of Khan Younis. Gaza's health ministry said hundreds more were injured in addition to those killed, reports AP. The widespread attacks across come as Trump finishes his visit to Gulf states but not Israel. There had been widespread hope that his regional trip could usher in a ceasefire deal or renewal of humanitarian aid to Gaza. An Israeli blockade of the territory is now in its third month.  Israeli strikes kill at least 64 people in Gaza as Trump wraps up his Middle East visit Speaking to reporters at a business forum in Abu Dhabi on the final day of his trip, Trump said he was looking to resolve a range of global crises, including Gaza. “We’re looking at Gaza,” he said. “And we’ve got to get that taken care of. A lot of people are starving. A lot of people are — there’s a lot of bad things going on.” Israel said Friday it was continuing its operations against militants in Gaza and that it struck 150 targets in the past day, including anti-tank missile posts and military structures. In northern Gaza, it eliminated several militants who were operating in an observation compound, it said. The strikes lasted for hours into Friday morning and sent people fleeing from the Jabaliya refugee camp and the town of Beit Lahiya. They followed days of similar attacks that killed more than 130 people, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. After the strikes, dark smoke was seen rising over Jabaliya as people grabbed what they could of their belongings and fled on donkey carts, by car and foot. “The army entered upon us, bombing, killing. ... We got out of the house with difficulty, killing and death, we did not take anything,” said Feisal Al-Attar, who was displaced from Beit Lahiya. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed earlier in the week to push ahead with a promised escalation of force in Israel’s war in the Gaza Strip to pursue his aim of destroying the Hamas militant group, which governs Gaza. In comments released by Netanyahu’s office Tuesday, the he said Israeli forces were days away from entering Gaza “with great strength to complete the mission ... It means destroying Hamas.”  54 killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes on Southern Gaza’s Khan Younis

Jagannath University (JnU) students began a mass hunger strike on Friday at 3:45 pm near Kakrail Mosque intersection, pressing four key demands including housing allowances, full budget approval, campus expansion and justice for police action against teachers. The hunger strike was formally announced by Muhammad Monzur Morshed Bhuiyan, spokesperson of the JnU Teachers’ Association and a professor in the Department of Finance. Both current and former students joined the protests. Earlier, at 3pm, Mahatab Limon, General Secretary of the Jagannath University Journalists’ Association, made the initial announcement on behalf of the platform ‘Jobi Oikkya’ during a rally. JnU students, teachers announce shutdown “Our movement has reached a point of no return. We will begin our hunger strike at 3:30 pm and will not leave until our demands are met," Limon said.

Though the BNP has been consistently calling for a national election along with swift reforms, party leaders now fear that their December election deadline may quietly slip away, as the interim government appears to be dragging its feet and showing no sign of preparing for the polls. Talking to UNB, some senior BNP leaders said nine months after the interim government's formation, its lack of focus on elections and controversial moves—such as allowing human corridors to Rakhine and outsourcing port operations—have raised doubts about its true intentions. In such a situation, they said the party rank and file is mounting pressure to take to the streets to force the government to announce a clear election roadmap and hold the election within this year. A BNP leader, wishing to remain anonymous, said the party fears that the ban on activities of the Awami League, growing conflicts  among the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, increasing unnecessary street protests, and a slide in the law and order situation may complicate the political scenario in the country in the days to come. He said they are also concerned about the new political polarisation and its impact on the national election following the ban on the Awami League’s activities until the completion of its trial and that of its leaders. BNP alleges political motive behind Shammo murder The BNP leader said they suspect that the ban on the Awami League’s activities and the suspension of the party’s registration with the Election Commission may be part of a ploy by local and international actors to prolong the power of the interim government. He said their last standing committee meeting discussed the issues of election and reforms, and most members voiced frustration over the lack of visible progress toward holding the election. The BNP leader said they also discussed the growing pressure from grassroots leaders and activists to launch a movement demanding the government hold the election by December this year. Three BNP Standing Committee members have recently expressed both concern and anger over the delay in the election. On 12 May, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas alleged that many dubious foreigners are arriving in Bangladesh, accusing the interim government of serving the interests of others rather than the people of the country. He also accused the government of orchestrating various incidents to divert public attention from its misdeeds. Abbas also alleged that a deliberate effort is underway to eliminate their party, claiming that pro-BNP officials are being replaced by those loyal to the Awami League or Jamaat-e-Islami in the administration and other key government offices. A day earlier, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that their party had on various occasions demanded that the Awami League, as a party, be brought under trial, but the government had not paid any heed. “Had the Chief Adviser taken the matter into consideration at that time, it would not have led to the embarrassing situation of the last two days (demonstration at Shahbagh),” he added. BNP’s Farroque urges govt to recognise public sentiment, hold early election Claiming that people across the country are eager to vote in the next parliamentary elections, the BNP leader said, “For that, we have called upon the Chief Adviser to announce a roadmap for the next election soon. Otherwise, such an embarrassing situation may arise again.” On 13 May, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said their party had already made it clear that they are ready to implement any reform proposals agreed upon through political consensus. “So, why is the delay? Why cannot we know where the consensus stands? We have all submitted our proposals. We are waiting to see where the consensus is. But we still cannot know where it lies. Why the hesitation in stating that?” he said. “You cannot hold the people hostage and then talk about reforms solely to serve the interests of a select few. There is no longer any scope in Bangladesh to impose anything by force while excluding the people. That time is over,” he said. The BNP leader lamented that those who once hid in fear of Sheikh Hasina are now lecturing others on reforms. “Every now and then, new issues are brought forward, reforms are dragged out, and the overall situation is kept in a state of flux. It appears to be part of a larger conspiracy to defer elections indefinitely,” a member of the BNP Standing Committee told UNB on condition of anonymity. He said their party is now holding youth rallies in all divisions to drum up support and encourage the new generation to become involved in BNP politics. “Our youth rally will be held on 28 May with a massive showdown in Dhaka. From that rally, the BNP will send out a strong message to the government not to unnecessarily delay the election,” the BNP leader said. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said they are observing a move to delay the election on various pretexts, including the reform process. “Delaying the elections could create further instability and give the Awami League time to reorganise and create chaos in the country. If elections are delayed, the situation may spiral out of control,” he warned. The BNP leader said although the interim government’s role should be to restore the people’s mandate, it seems to lack genuine interest in doing so. Mirza Abbas alleges systematic purge of pro-BNP officials from administration He urged the government to come up with a clear electoral roadmap as soon as possible. “The people—especially the youth—want to vote. A fair BNP-Election to be held, and the reforms must be completed quickly.”      

New Jersey Transit train engineers went on strike Friday, leaving an estimated 350,000 commuters in New Jersey and New York City to seek other means to reach their destinations or consider staying home. Groups of picketers gathered in front of transit headquarters in Newark and at the Hoboken Terminal, carrying signs that said “Locomotive Engineers on Strike” and “NJ Transit: Millions for Penthouse Views Nothing for Train Crews.” Passing drivers honked their horns. The walkout comes after the latest round of negotiations on Thursday didn’t produce an agreement. It is the state’s first transit strike in more than 40 years and comes a month after union members overwhelmingly rejected a labor agreement with management. Fire at a former UK military base kills 2 firefighters and a civilian “We presented them the last proposal; they rejected it and walked away with two hours left on the clock," said Tom Haas, general chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri described the situation as a “pause in the conversations.” “I certainly expect to pick back up these conversations as soon as possible,” he said late Thursday during a joint news conference with New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy. “If they’re willing to meet tonight, I’ll meet them again tonight. If they want to meet tomorrow morning, I’ll do it again. Because I think this is an imminently workable problem. The question is, do they have the willingness to come to a solution.” NJ governor says deal needs to be fair to employees and affordable Murphy said it was important to “reach a final deal that is both fair to employees and at the same time affordable to New Jersey’s commuters and taxpayers.” "Again, we cannot ignore the agency’s fiscal realities,” Murphy said. The announcement came after 15 hours of nonstop contract talks, according to the union. NJ Transit — the nation’s third-largest transit system — operates buses and rail in the state, providing nearly 1 million weekday trips, including into New York City. The walkout halts all NJ Transit commuter trains, which provide heavily used public transit routes between New York City’s Penn Station on one side of the Hudson River and communities in northern New Jersey on the other, as well as the Newark airport, which has grappled with unrelated delays of its own recently. The agency had announced contingency plans in recent days, saying it planned to increase bus service, but warned riders that the buses would only add “very limited” capacity to existing New York commuter bus routes in close proximity to rail stations and would not start running until Monday. The agency also will contract with private carriers to operate bus service from key regional park-and-ride locations during weekday peak periods. Commuters are urged to work from home, if possible, during strike However, the agency noted that the buses would not be able to handle close to the same number of passengers — only about 20% of current rail customers — so it urged people who could work from home to do so. Opulence, business deals and a $400M plane from Qatar: Takeaways from Trump’s Mideast tour Even the threat of it had already caused travel disruptions. Amid the uncertainty, the transit agency canceled train and bus service for Shakira concerts Thursday and Friday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The parties met Monday with a federal mediation board in Washington to discuss the matter, and a mediator was present during Thursday’s talks. Kolluri said Thursday night that the mediation boardhas suggested a Sunday morning meeting to resume talks. Wages are the key sticking point of negotiations Wages have been the main sticking point of the negotiations between the agency and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen that wants to see its members earn wages comparable to other passenger railroads in the area. The union says its members earn an average salary of $113,000 a year and says an agreement could be reached if agency CEO Kris Kolluri agrees to an average yearly salary of $170,000. NJ Transit leadership, though, disputes the union’s data, saying the engineers have average total earnings of $135,000 annually, with the highest earners exceeding $200,000. Kolluri and Murphy said Thursday night that the problem isn’t so much whether both sides can agree to a wage increase, but whether they can do so under terms that wouldn’t then trigger other unions to demand similar increases and create a financially unfeasible situation for NJ Transit. Congress has the power to intervene and block the strike and force the union to accept a deal, but lawmakers have not shown a willingness to do that this time like they did in 2022 to prevent a national freight railroad strike. The union has seen steady attrition in its ranks at NJ Transit as more of its members leave to take better-paying jobs at other railroads. The number of NJ Transit engineers has shrunk from 500 several months ago to about 450 today.

Key allies of detained former President Rodrigo Duterte and two liberal opposition candidates were among top winners in the May 12 Senate race in the Philippines, according to official results released Friday by the Election Commission. The midterm election outcome provided unexpectedly strong backing for Duterte and boosted his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, ahead of her impeachment trial in the Senate in July. The election also was a blow to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, whose candidates did not do as well as expected in midterm polls when the president’s influence is usually strong, analysts said. Five of the 12 Senate race winners were endorsed by Sara Duterte, including the president’s sister, Imee Marcos, and Camille Villar, another Marcos alliance candidate from a wealthy political family. Five others were aligned with Marcos, while two surprise winners were from the opposition. Two Duterte allies were among the top five. Indian army says 10 militants killed in Manipur gunfight Christopher Go, a former Cabinet member under the elder Duterte, led the Senate winners with more than 27 million votes. Ronald dela Rosa, Duterte’s first national police chief and executor of his deadly anti-drugs campaign, ranked third.      

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined the leaders of dozens of European countries and organizations for a one-day summit in Albania's capital Friday to discuss security and defense challenges across the continent, with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine at the top of the agenda. On the eve of the summit in Tirana, Russian President Vladimir Putin spurned an offer by Zelenskyy to meet face-to-face in Turkey to try to secure a ceasefire with Moscow, sending a low-level delegation instead. European leaders criticize Putin's decision not to met Zelenskyy “I think Putin made a mistake by sending a low level delegation,” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said as he arrived for the summit under a steady drizzle. “The ball is clearly in his part of the field now, in his court. He has to play ball. He has to be serious about wanting peace. So I think all the pressure is now on Putin,” Rutte added. Zelenskyy did not make any comments as he arrived for the summit, walking with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama along the red carpet past the gathered media. European Union foreign chief Kaja Kallas said Putin was “playing games, which shows that they are not serious about peace.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said it was clear that “President Zelenskyy was ready to meet but President Putin never showed up, and this shows his true belief. So we will increase the pressure.” Von der Leyen said the EU is preparing a new package of sanctions. She said that the measures will target the shadow fleet of aging cargo vessels that Russia is using to bypass international sanctions and the Nord Stream pipeline consortium. Russia’s financial sector would also be targeted, she said. EU envoys have been working on the new sanctions package for several weeks, and the bloc’s foreign ministers could enact them as soon as Tuesday. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni stressed that efforts to reach a deal on Ukraine must continue. Delegations from Russia and Ukraine are set to hold their first peace talks in 3 years “I think ... that we must not throw in the towel. I think we must insist, we must insist for an unconditional ceasefire and a serious peace agreement that includes guarantees of security for Ukraine,” she said. The spurning of the offer for direct talks with Zelenskyy “is clear evidence that Putin doesn’t seriously want peace. He’s dragging his heels,” said U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “And that’s why today is a really important opportunity, to work with colleagues to make sure that we are absolutely united.” Summit a chance for bilateral meetings The theme of the European Political Community, or EPC, summit in Tirana is “New Europe in a new world: unity — cooperation — joint action.” The gathering of leaders from about 50 nations and organizations will also address ways to improve the continent’s competitiveness and tackle unauthorized migration. But the EPC will also be a setting for leaders to meet bilaterally, or in small groups, to weigh in on major security issues. The inaugural summit in Prague in 2022 saw the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia holding rare talks in an effort to ease tensions between the longtime adversaries. Last weekend, Zelenskyy hosted French President Emmanuel Macron, Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv, where they made a joint call for a 30-day end to hostilities. “As Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues, its consequences stretch far beyond Ukraine’s borders, straining our security and testing our collective resilience,” Albania's Rama and European Council President António Costa wrote in their EPC summit invitation letter. The last summit, hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, an ardent supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump, was dominated by the concerns and opportunities that might arise in the wake of Trump's reelection. The leaders arrived in Tirana’s central Skanderbeg Square on a rainy morning and were to be greeted by a brief performance by dancers in folk costumes before heading into the temporary conference hall, set up at the foot of a monument to Albania's national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu, or Skanderbeg, who fought against the Ottoman Empire. Albania hosts a major summit days after election Rama's governing Socialist Party won Albania’s May 11 parliamentary election, attracting voters who support the country’s long and somewhat uphill effort to join the European Union. The vote secured a fourth term for Rama. The prime minister said that the summit is a point of pride for Albania, and an “inspiration and motivation to continue further on.” His Socialist Party says it can deliver EU membership in five years. The EPC forum is Macron's brainchild, and was backed by former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, aiming to boost security and prosperity across the continent. But critics claimed it was an attempt by them to put the brakes on EU enlargement. The 2022 inaugural summit involved the EU's 27 member countries, aspiring partners in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, as well as neighbors like the U.K. — the only country to have left the EU — and Turkey. Russia is the one major European power not invited, along with Belarus, its neighbor and supporter in the war with Ukraine. The next EPC meeting will take place in Denmark later this year.  54 people killed in overnight airstrikes on southern Gaza city amid Trump's Mideast trip

Goodison Park, the long-time home of Premier League team Everton, has staged more top-tier games than any other stadium in England. It was where Pele was kicked to pieces before losing a World Cup match with Brazil for the only time. It was where eight English league titles were won, and where several nerve-shredding escapes from relegation in the Premier League were completed. Everton will leave Goodison at the end of this season to move to a new 53,000-seat stadium at nearby Bramley-Moore Dock. Sunday's visit of Southampton marks the final game in the team's home of 133 years and the occasion will be marked by what Everton is calling an “End of an Era” ceremony afterward. The stadium will continue to operate instead in the women's game, as the new home of Everton Women. Here is Goodison’s story so far: Goodison wasn't always Everton's home Goodison Park has been the home to eight of Everton's nine title-winning campaigns. The first came somewhere you might not expect. Back on the pitch: PSL resumes after conflict-forced suspension Everton became a professional club and played its first Football League fixture at Anfield — now the storied home of neighbor Liverpool — from 1884-92. The club's first league title was won there in 1891, with Everton matches watched by crowds of up to 20,000. But a dispute with Everton's then-chairman, who owned the land, pushed club officials to buy a field just across Stanley Park and build a new stadium — Goodison Park. It opened in 1892, staged an FA Cup final two years later and, in 1924, hosted an exhibition baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and New York Giants on their world tour.   The architect Goodison Park is a celebrated example by the greatest architect of soccer’s early years, Archibald Leitch. The Scottish architect who designed dozens of soccer and rugby venues in the early 20th century started work at Everton with the Goodison Road stand in 1909. The huge construction was popularly compared to an ocean liner called the Mauretania. The main Bullens Road stand is now 99 years old and still has the signature Leitch feature, crossed trusses on the upper-tier balcony. What Leitch didn't build was another unique feature of Goodison Park — St. Luke’s Church in one corner of the ground next to the Gwladys Street end that's home to Everton’s noisiest fans. Pele's World Cup troubles at Goodison Pelé played in 14 games at four different World Cups from 1958 to 1970 and lost only one: at Goodison. Brazil was based at Goodison for its group-stage games in 1966 and the two-time defending champion’s superstar was targeted for rough treatment. Pelé scored in an opening 2-0 win over Bulgaria but was too injured to then face Hungary, which won 3-1. Pelé came back for a decisive game against Eusebio’s Portugal and again was repeatedly fouled. Portugal won 3-1 and Brazil exited with the sad sight of Pelé limping around the Goodison field. Goodison hosted an epic quarterfinal — North Korea took an early three-goal lead before Eusebio scored four and Portugal won 5-3 — then a semifinal that controversially didn't involve England. FIFA, led by its English president Stanley Rous, switched the England-Portugal game to Wembley and Goodison instead hosted West Germany beating the Soviet Union. Fans in Liverpool were not impressed, calling it an “England fix." Goodison was “the best stadium in my playing life,” Eusebio said in 2009 on a return visit.   Goodison's greatest games For many Everton fans, nothing quite tops the atmosphere that was generated in the stadium — often fondly referred to as the “Grand Old Lady” — when their team beat Bayern Munich and Lothar Matthäus 3-1 in the second leg of the European Cup-Winners' Cup semifinals. The old stadium rocked with relief as much as joy when Everton came from two goals down to beat Wimbledon 3-2 on the final day of the 1993-94 season to stay in the Premier League, and again four years later after a final-round 1-1 draw with Coventry to stay up on goal difference. A 16-year-old Wayne Rooney announced himself to the world when coming off the bench to score with a last-minute, long-range curler in off the bar to end Arsenal’s 30-game unbeaten league run in October 2002. And there was the final men's Merseyside derby at Goodison in February. James Tarkowski smashed a shot into the roof of the net in the eighth minute of stoppage time to secure Everton a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.   What's next? Everton is moving to Bramley-Moore Dock on Liverpool's waterfront to start next season. The new stadium already staged test events, is slated to host a high-profile rugby league match between England and Australia on Nov. 1, and is a host venue for the men’s European Championship in 2028. The plan was for Goodison Park to be demolished but Everton's new owners — the Friedkin family from Texas — announced this week that the women's team, which plays in the top-flight Super League, will play there from next season, moving from its nearby current home in Walton Hall Park. Goodison's current capacity of nearly 40,000 will likely be reduced.   END/UNB/AP/MA

Two firefighters and a civilian were killed in a blaze at a former British military base that is now used to commemorate the history of aviation and motor sports, officials said Friday. The fire broke out Thursday in a large warehouse at the former Royal Air Force base in Bicester, near Oxford. Giant plumes of smoke could be seen for miles and witnesses reported hearing explosions.  Leaders of ICAB, ICAEW meet in UK Two other firefighters were hospitalized with serious injuries, Oxfordshire County Council said. Crews had the fire under control Friday morning but remained at the scene.  UK becomes fastest-growing G7 economy after strong first quarter

President Donald Trump used the first major foreign trip of his second term to outline a vision for restoring global stability that is grounded in pragmatism and self-interest rather than values, holding out U.S. ties to wealthy Gulf countries as a model for America’s longtime foes. His four-day swing through Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, which ends Friday, put a spotlight on Trump’s transactional approach to foreign affairs as he was feted by autocratic rulers with a trio of lavish state visits where there was heavy emphasis on economic and security partnerships. His trip played out against the backdrop of stubborn global conflicts, including Gaza and Ukraine, that showed the limits of his influence. But Trump insisted he was turning the page on American “interventionalism” in the region as he moved to recognize the new government in Syria for the first time and prodded Iran to engage on nuclear talks before it’s too late. Some takeaways from Trump’s travels: Trump marveled at Gulf state opulence but held his tongue on human rights Presidential trips to the Middle East usually feature at least some public calls for authoritarian governments to improve their human rights efforts. Not this one, as Trump celebrated his business deals with Gulf royals and admired their wealth. Trump toured the marble and gilded palaces of Gulf rulers and deemed them “perfecto” and “very hard to buy.” He praised the “gleaming marvels” of the skyline in Saudi Arabia. And he groused about the “much less impressive” Air Force One. In Trump’s remarks at a VIP business conference in Riyadh, he went out of his way to distance himself from the actions of past administrations, the days when he said American officials would fly in “in beautiful planes, giving you lectures on how to live and how to govern your own affairs.” Rights advocates took that as a pledge of nonintervention, swearing off some of the pressure past U.S. presidents have brought to bear on partners to varying degrees to ease up on detentions, suppression of critics and other issues. Israeli strikes kill at least 64 people in Gaza as Trump wraps up his Middle East visit “It’s absolute support for absolute monarchy,” said Saudi exile Abdullah Alaoudh. His father, a Saudi cleric with a wide following there, is imprisoned in the kingdom. Some rights advocates said Trump officials gave them private assurances the administration was working on behalf of detained Americans and rights advocates. Tommy Pigott, a deputy spokesman at the State Department, declined to say whether Trump raised those or other rights issues in discussions with Gulf royals. Thwarted by Putin While Trump was in the Mideast, Vladimir Putin opted to skip direct peace talks with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy despite the U.S. president’s strong calls for them to meet face to face. Trump has been pushing Putin and Zelenskyy to move with greater haste to end Russia’s grinding war in Ukraine. But after it became clear Putin wouldn’t be attending talks in Turkey this week and would instead be sending underlings to Istanbul, an annoyed Trump insisted he knew all along that it was highly likely Putin would be a no-show. “I don’t believe anything’s going to happen whether you like it or not, until he and I get together,” Trump said. “But we’re going to have to get it solved because too many people are dying.” As he wrapped up his visit on Friday, Trump said the face-to-face would happen “as soon as we can set it up.” Trump was scheduled to fly back to Washington on Friday, but tried to keep people guessing until the end. He teased late Thursday that he would be heading to a “destination unknown” — “probably” Washington, he added. His opaque language stoked speculation that he might make a drop-by to Turkey. But on Friday morning, he told reporters he needed to get back to Washington. His daughter Tiffany had her first child while the president has been away. “I would actually leave here and go,” Trump said. “I do want to see my beautiful grandson.”   On Syria sanctions, Trump takes a leap of faith Just two months ago, the Trump administration wasn’t sold on Syria’s interim government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, the onetime al-Qaida-affiliated insurgent. They worried the Syrian president didn’t have the legitimacy to govern the country’s ethnically diverse population. Clashes broke out in early March, killing hundreds and targeting many more members of the Alawite religious minority to which the ousted Syrian leader Basher Assad belongs. The moment gave the Trump White House pause about easing sanctions on Syria. But Trump signaled Monday that he was having a change of heart and was moving toward lifting the Syria sanctions. A day later, he announced the move during an address to Gulf leaders. Trump then took it another step by agreeing to meet al-Sharaa. Trump said he was impressed with al-Sharaa, who not that long ago had a $10 million U.S. bounty on his head. The president called him a “young, attractive guy” with a “very strong past.” Trump said it was recommendations from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that nudged him to take a chance on al-Sharra. “President Erdogan called me and said: ‘Is there any way you could do that? Because if you don’t do that, they don’t have a chance,’” Trump said. “So, I did it.”    

A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight made a safe landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Friday afternoon despite losing one of its wheels shortly after take-off from Cox’s Bazar. ABM Rawshan Kabir, General Manager (Public Relations) of the state-owned airline, told UNB, “We cannot confirm the exact reason or details at this point about the mid-air wheel loss. A full inspection by the engineering department will determine it." Biman reschedules flights on three routes amid India-Pakistan tensions According to the control room at Cox’s Bazar Airport, one of the wheels of flight BG-436 detached suddenly moments after the aircraft took off from the runway. The flight, which was carrying 71 passengers, departed Cox’s Bazar at 1:17pm and successfully landed in Dhaka at 2:17pm without further incident. The flight operations remain as usual at Dhaka airport.

Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Friday killed at least 64 people, according to local hospitals, as U.S. President Donald Trump concluded a Middle East tour that excluded Israel and failed to deliver any hope for a ceasefire in the war-ravaged enclave. Health officials reported that 48 bodies were taken to the Indonesian Hospital and another 16 to Nasser Hospital following overnight strikes that hit areas near Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. The renewed wave of bombardments coincided with Trump’s departure from the Gulf region. Many had hoped his regional visit might lead to a ceasefire or a resumption of humanitarian aid, but those expectations went unmet. Meanwhile, Gaza remains under an Israeli blockade that has now stretched into its third month. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strikes, which continued for hours and triggered panic and displacement in the Jabaliya refugee camp and the town of Beit Lahiya. These latest attacks follow days of intense shelling that, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, have killed over 130 people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier pledged a major escalation in military operations aimed at defeating Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza. In remarks released Tuesday, Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces were preparing to enter Gaza “with great strength” to “complete the mission of destroying Hamas.” It remains unclear whether Friday’s bombardment marks the start of that operation.  54 killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes on Southern Gaza’s Khan Younis An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said cabinet ministers were meeting Friday to evaluate ceasefire talks taking place in Qatar and to determine the next course of action. Meanwhile, families of hostages held by Hamas said they woke Friday with “heavy hearts” amid reports of intensified Israeli strikes. In a statement, they urged Netanyahu to work with President Trump to reach a deal for the hostages’ release. “Missing this historic opportunity to bring the hostages home would be a failure remembered in infamy,” said the statement, issued by a forum supporting hostage families. The war began after Hamas-led militants launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people. In response, Israel began a large-scale offensive in Gaza that has since killed over 53,000 Palestinians, many of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and militant deaths. Around 3,000 people have been killed since Israel resumed operations on March 18 following a brief ceasefire. Hamas still holds 58 of the approximately 250 hostages taken on October 7. Israeli authorities believe 23 of those are still alive, although they have raised concerns about the fate of at least three. Israel’s blockade on Gaza has cut off access to essential supplies like food, fuel, and medicine, deepening the humanitarian crisis. The Israeli government insists that aid will not be allowed in until a mechanism is in place that ensures its control over distribution, aimed at pressuring Hamas to release the hostages. Earlier this week, a new U.S.-backed humanitarian group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, announced it would begin aid delivery operations before the end of May, following agreements with Israeli officials. The group includes U.S. military veterans, former aid coordinators, and security personnel. However, several humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, criticized the initiative, saying it does not meet international humanitarian standards and will not be able to adequately address the needs of Palestinians in Gaza. They have opted not to participate.  Israeli airstrikes in Gaza kill 60, including 22 children

Russia and Ukraine are set to hold their first face-to-face peace talks in three years on Friday, convening in Istanbul under Turkish mediation. However, both officials and analysts anticipate little progress in halting the war, which has now stretched into its fourth year. Ukraine’s delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, is expected to meet a lower-level Russian team headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky.  Russia launches smallest nighttime attack on Ukraine in months in run-up to possible peace talks The renewed attempt to revive peace talks began on a shaky note Thursday, as Russian President Vladimir Putin declined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s offer for direct talks. The two delegations also arrived in different Turkish cities and appeared mismatched in terms of diplomatic representation. While expectations were low for a possible Zelenskyy-Putin meeting, the sluggish momentum of the peace process dashed hopes of a breakthrough in Turkey. The two sides remain deeply divided on terms for ending the conflict. On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump, during a visit to the Middle East, said a meeting between him and Putin was essential to overcome the stalemate. Ukraine has accepted a 30-day comprehensive ceasefire proposal backed by the U.S. and Europe, but Putin has dismissed it, instead laying out broad preconditions. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials and Western military analysts report that Russia is preparing for a renewed military offensive. After Putin declined Zelenskyy’s invitation to meet in Ankara on Thursday, the Ukrainian president accused Moscow of not being genuinely interested in ending the war, criticizing Russia’s delegation as merely symbolic. Nonetheless, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would still send a delegation led by his defense minister to the Istanbul talks, as a signal to Trump that Kyiv remains committed to peace despite Russia’s apparent reluctance. According to the Kremlin, Russia’s delegation will include three additional senior officials, along with four junior “experts” assigned to the discussions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated he would meet Friday in Istanbul with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and the Ukrainian delegation. He also noted that members of the U.S. team would hold talks with the Russian side, expressing hope that all parties might eventually sit down together. “We’re not expecting major results tomorrow. Honestly, it’s clear by now that a real breakthrough would require a direct meeting between President Trump and President Putin,” Rubio told reporters Thursday in Antalya. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy traveled to Albania to participate in a summit of European political leaders scheduled for Friday.  Russian House in Dhaka celebrates the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and locals have reportedly resisted an attempt by Indian Border Security Force (BSF) to push 750 people into Bangladesh through the border in Brahmanbaria district early Friday. A tense situation prevailed along the borders between the frontier guards overnight, said locals. 'Push-ins': BGB patrols strengthen along Feni border Sources said that Indian law enforcers have recently detained over 600 people in the states of Tripura and 148 in Rajasthan during the countrywide crackdown, with New Delhi claiming that most of them are Bangladeshis and Rohingyas. The BSF reportedly took the detainees to a bordering area to push them into Bangladesh through Singarbil border of Bijoynagar upazila of the district around 2am. Being informed, the BGB took position while locals also gathered along the border to resist the push-in. Local union parishad member Mamun Chowdhury said the BSF was forced to go back when the BGB and locals took position along the border. Push-ins by India continues; BGB strengthens border patrols Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sadhana Tripura said, “Situation is now normal along the border. The push-in attempt by the BSF has been resisted by the BGB and locals. All have been still at alert.” Lt. Col Jabbar Ahammed, commandant of the BGB-25 Battalion, said they took a cautious position after being informed about the possible push-in, and curious locals also gathered at the border.

An environment conference opened in Nepal on Friday to discuss global climate change, including the impact on the highest Himalayan peaks where snow and ice are melting. The three-day conference in Kathmandu titled, “Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity,” is expected to include discussions of critical climate issues. “From the lap of Sagarmatha (Everest), the world’s highest peak, we send this message loud and clear that to protect the mountains is to protect the planet. To protect the mountains is to protect our seas. To protect the mountains is to protect humanity itself,” Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli told participants at the opening meeting. Nepal is home to eight of the tallest mountains in the world including Mount Everest. A high level of glaciers melting in the Himalayan mountains because of global warming has raised signficant concerns. Melting snow and ice have exposed the mountains and increased the risk of rock slides, landslides and avalanches. In one Indian city, reflective paint and bus stop sprinklers offer relief from killer heat Scientists have warned the Himalayan mountains could lose up to 80% of their glaciers if the Earth warms in coming decades or centuries. They say flash floods and avalanches also could become more likely in coming years, in part because of climate change. “The tragedy is that the Himalayas are facing an unprecedented stress test in real time today, exposing not only the fragile nature of our mountain ecosystems but also a glaring evidence of the lack of meaningful global climate action,” Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba said. “As a mountainous country with high disaster risk vulnerability, Nepal faces a stark predicament.” Nepal has experienced a series of severe weather events in the recent past with devastating impacts on people and their livelihoods, Deuba said. "Floods and glacial lake outbursts have caused large-scale destruction and damage, and droughts, water scarcity and forest fires have brought untold suffering to the people across the country," she said. Study finds cleaner brick kilns practices cut emissions by 20%, energy use by 23% Ministers from neighboring India, Bhutan and Maldives are attending the conference. Organizers have said they intend to publish a Kathmandu declaration after the discussions end Sunday.

A group of students under the banner of ‘General Students of Bangladesh’ on Friday besieged Shahbagh police station demanding justice for Dhaka University student Shammo who was murdered at Suhrawardy Udyan last week. The protesters marched and surrounded the police station at around 11:30am. Earlier, they gathered in front of the university’s Institute of Education and Research, marched to the Raju sculpture, and then proceeded toward Shahbagh police station. Participating in the march, the students chanted slogans demanding justice for Shahriar Alam Shammo, and ensuring  safety of the campus. They said that those involved in the murder must be arrested quickly and a safe campus must be ensured. During the siege, a delegation from the protesters entered the police station for discussion. DU students hold torch procession to protest Shammo's death The delegation included Institute of Education and Research teachers Dr. Muhammad Abdus Salam, Dr. Asim Das, Dr. Sirajul Islam, and four students.  Ibrahim Munshi, one of the protesters, said, “This is a non-partisan movement. Different political parties are trying to use Shammo’s death for their own interests. But our only demand is to ensure justice for Shammo.” He further said, “Even after 72 hours, the main accused has not been arrested. We have come peacefully with a just demand. If the culprits are not arrested within 48 hours, another siege programme will be called.” Shammo, a student of the 2018–19 session at the Institute of Education and Research and literary and publication secretary of JCD’s AF Rahman Hall unit, was stabbed inside Suhrawardy Udyan on Tuesday night. He was declared dead after being taken to hospital. Early Wednesday, police detained three youths from the Green Road and Rajabazar areas in connection with the murder. They have been in jail since the detention.    

A man was arrested with 2,820 pieces of Yaba tablets hidden in his stomach at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport,  said Airport Armed Police Battalion on Friday. A case was filed under Narcotics Control Act with Airport police station on Friday morning. Based on secret information, the arrestee, Hossain Ahmed, 60, was detained near the northern side of the airport’s Balaka building after arriving in Dhaka from Cox’s Bazar on Biman Bangladesh domestic flight BS-152, on Wednesday. Upon questioning, Hossain admitted to carrying Yaba pills inside his stomach. He was taken to the airport medical unit, where an X-ray revealed 30 capsule-shaped objects in his abdomen. He was later transferred to Kurmitola General Hospital, where, under medical supervision, he expelled 30 tape-wrapped packets through natural means.  Inside the packets, a total of 2,820 Yaba tablets were found. Police said Hossain had long been involved in drug trafficking. Unidentified woman killed in road accident in city's Banani Airport Armed Police said more than 16,000 Yaba pills were recovered in separate recent drives, which led to the arrest of five other drug traffickers. “Recently, drug smuggling through the airport has noticeably increased. We remain alert to prevent any criminal activities in and around the airport,” said Additional Superintendent of Police Anita Rani Sutradhar of the Airport Armed Police Battalion.    

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast rain or thunder showers with lightning flashes in all divisions, including Dhaka of the country in 24 hours commencing 9am on Friday. “Light to moderate rain or thunder showers with lightning flashes and temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at a few places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions and at one or two places over Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal and Chattogram divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions,” said a met office update. Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country, according to the BMD.   Rains, thunder showers with lightning likely in Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions: BMD Meanwhile, a m mild heat wave is sweeping over Khulna division and the districts of Noakhali, Feni, Patuakhali, Cox's Bazar,Lakshmipur and Bandarban and it may abate from some places. The country’s highest temperature 37.6 degree Celsius was recorded in Satkhira and Jashore over the past 24 hours till 6pm on Thursday while the lowest temperature 22 degree Celsius was recorded in Dimla of Nilphamari till 6am on Friday. A trough of westerly low lies over West Bengal to North Bay across Southwestern part of Bangladesh.  

Chief of Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan on Friday returned home after an official visit to Italy. During the visit the air chief attended AeroSpace Power Conference (ASPC) 2025 from May 8-9 at the invitation of Lieutenant General Luca GORETTI, chief of staff of the Italian Air Force, says an ISPR media release on Friday. He also attended AeroSpace Power Conference (ASPC) 2025 .Air chiefs, military and civil high officials of different countries attended the event. Besides, the chief of Air Staff of visited Leonardo Facilities at the invitation of the Italian military equipment manufacturer Leonardo S.p.a. Air Chief returns home from USA It is expected that the visit of the air chief will play a vital role for strengthening the bilateral relationship and enhance the scope of mutual cooperation in the professional sectors between Bangladesh and Italy. The chief of Air Staff left Dhaka for Italy on May 7.

UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis has said they stand ready to help deliver lasting reform, climate resilience, economic transformation, and gender equality, leaving no one behind as Bangladesh prepares for LDC graduation.  She said the past year was a challenging one but it also revealed the determination and dignity of the Bangladeshi people.  "I am proud of the partnership between Bangladesh and the UN: it remains grounded in shared values and aspirations,” Gwyn Lewis said. The government of Bangladesh and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) convened on Thursday for the biannual meeting of the Joint Steering Committee (JSC) to assess the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), launch the 2024 UN Country Results Report, and endorse strategic priorities for the year ahead. Reflecting on a year marked by political transition, major climate disasters and reform momentum, the JSC highlighted the UN’s adaptability in navigating through the transition, as well as its support in advancing key areas of governance reform, human rights, and institutional strengthening.  The UN delivered $215 million in development programming in 2024.  Will try to meet and collect opinions of all political parties of Bangladesh: Gwyn Lewis Among the many highlights of its work, the UN supported the development of the Smooth Transition Strategy for LDC graduation, created over 4,000 jobs in partnership with the private sector, helped 116 businesses to improve turnover, and facilitated digital skills training for over 11,000 young people.  UN-supported efforts enabled access to social protection services for 40 million people, with 580,000 children benefitting from protection programmes.  Across Bangladesh, 5.6 million adolescent girls were vaccinated against the Human Papilloma Virus to protect against cervical cancer, covering 93% of girls aged 10-14 in the divisions targeted.  In a year marked by climate disasters, the UN coordinated $44 million of assistance for flood and cyclone response and provided humanitarian aid to 1.72 million disaster-affected people, as well as facilitating climate risk awareness for 2 million Bangladeshis.  Through its governance and gender work, the UN enabled Village Courts to serve 66% of rural unions reaching 61 million people, supported the Sexual Harassment Prevention and Protection Bill and advocated for the amendment of the Domestic Violence Act. The meeting, co-chaired by Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD), and Gwyn Lewis, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, brought together senior representatives from line ministries and UN agencies.  With the government’s decision to extend the Eighth Five-Year Plan by one year, the JSC formally endorsed a corresponding one-year extension of the UNSDCF (2022–2026) to maintain alignment with national development planning. A special session was dedicated to the Declaration on Future Generations and the UN’s work on youth engagement.  UNRC Gwyn Lewis calls for an end to violence, says it’s non-negotiable Participants discussed efforts to amplify the voices of young people and integrate intergenerational equity into national policy priorities as a follow-up to the 2024 Summit of the Future. Siddiky reaffirmed the government’s appreciation for the UN’s continued partnership and expressed optimism that the extended Cooperation Framework would provide a strong platform for deepening collaboration during the transition period and beyond.  “We welcome progress on climate financing platforms like the Bangladesh Climate Development Partnership, and continued UN and development partner support is needed,” said the Secretary of the Economic Relations Division.  “Youth employment, social enterprises, and impact funding must be prioritized to realize the Honourable Chief Adviser’s ‘three zeros’ vision. Urgent attention is also needed for water resource management, local governance, and responsive UN support ahead of upcoming reforms and elections,” said Siddiky. The JSC concluded with agreement on key next steps, including the launch of the final-year evaluation of the UNSDCF in late 2025 and a commitment to accelerate progress on SDG implementation and LDC graduation goals. UN to support Yunus-led interim government until national elections held: Gwyn Lewis The Cooperation Framework outlines UN support to Bangladesh in advancing the SDGs across five strategic priorities: Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Development, Equitable Human Development and Well Being, Sustainable, Healthy and Resilient Environment, Transformative, Participatory and Inclusive Governance and Gender Equality and Eliminating Gender-Based Violence. The next meeting of the JSC is scheduled for November/December 2025, said the UN office in Dhaka. 

Police recovered the body of an unidentified man from the Pagla River in Shibganj upazila of Chapainawabganj district on Friday morning. According to the police, locals spotted the body floating in the river in Guchchagram under Durlavpur union in the morning and informed the police. Constable’s body recovered from building in Dhaka Being informed, the body was retrieved and sent it to Chapainawabganj General Hospital morgue for an autopsy, said Golam Kibria, officer-in-charge of Shibganj Police Station. Legal action will be taken upon autopsy report, the police official said.

An unidentified woman, around 32 years old  and homeless, was killed after being hit by an unknown vehicle in the capital’s Banani area early Friday, police said. Sub-Inspector Md Sohel of Banani Police Station, said the incident occurred around 2:30am in front of the Naval Headquarters in Banani. The woman sustained critical injuries and was found lying on the road. Bieng informed, police rescued her and took her to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) at around 4:00am, where doctors declared her dead. The body has been kept at the hospital morgue for autopsy. Police said efforts are underway to identify the deceased. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has been informed, and fingerprint analysis is being conducted to help confirm her identity. Sylhet records 30 deaths in 29 road accidents in April: Report Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from the area to trace the vehicle responsible for the accident, said SI Sohel. DMCH police camp in-charge Inspector Md Faruk confirmed that the body is being preserved at the hospital morgue for post-mortem examination.      

Foodies can enjoy ‘Buy One Get Three’ offer with bKash payment on traditional Bangladeshi cuisine buffet at 'Flavourful Bangladesh' festival at the InterContinental Dhaka. The offer includes Kacchi Biryani (Dhaka), Mezbaani Beef (Chattogram), Chui Jhaal Beef (Khulna), Murgir Jhol with Kacha Aam (Rajshahi), Ilish Macher Paturi (Barishal), Boal Macher Doi Jhal (Mymensingh), Bhuna Khichuri (Rangpur), Shatkora Murgi (Sylhet), to desserts and many other local delicacies. With this offering, the bKash users can have enjoyable moments with dear ones at a five-star hotel and taste the country’s traditional delicacies, all without requiring any special cards. Walton wins 'Excellence in Investment Award 2025' The festival began on May 15 and would continue till May 24 at the hotel to showcase the rich heritage of Bangladeshi cuisine, art and culture. Customers can enjoy this offer at Tk 9,200 through bKash payment once during the festival. Moreover, the foodies can grab the chance by making payments through the bKash app using QR scan, payment gateways or direct payment through Visa cards linked to the app, or by dialling *247#.

During the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, one word seems to echo everywhere: sauna. While the northern Swiss city isn't typically associated with steamy, wood-paneled retreats, the Finnish village of Vörå certainly is. This year, three performers from there have brought sauna culture center stage at Eurovision. The group KAJ — pronounced “kai” and named after the initials of its members — is currently the top contender to win the continent-wide competition with their song “Bara Bada Bastu,” a playful homage to heat and steam that roughly translates to “just take a sauna.” Though KAJ is representing Sweden, its members hail from neighboring Finland, a nation of 5.5 million people and home to an astonishing 3.3 million saunas. The trio belongs to Finland’s Swedish-speaking minority. Their Eurovision act features a woodland cabin-style set, with dancers clad in either lumberjack outfits or oversized white towels. The performance is packed with a catchy chorus, energetic choreography, and a single, repeated word — “sauna!” — that fans now shout at the group wherever they appear. “The Eurovision bubble is a great bubble to be in,” Jakob Norrgård told The Associated Press on Thursday. He’s the J in KAJ, alongside fellow band members Kevin Holmström and Axel Åhman. Norrgård said that he expected Eurovision to be a welcoming environment, “but not this friendly. This is a bit over the top.” McDonald's to hire 375,000 workers in the US this summer The band members’ only regret is that they haven’t had a sauna since arriving in Basel for Eurovision, which ends Saturday with a grand final that will see acts from 26 countries compete at Basel’s St. Jakobshalle arena for the continent’s pop crown. Holmström said that the band is delighted to be an ambassador for sauna culture. “It’s a thing I really endorse,” he said. “It’s good for people. It is good for me, for both my mental and physical health, and (it’s) also a very social event.” KAJ was formed in 2009 and built a strong local following with humorous songs in Vora’s local dialect. Not long ago they were performing at birthday parties and in town halls of their home region. They entered Sweden’s national Eurovision selection contest, Melodifestivalen, thinking it might get them some gigs in Sweden. They unexpectedly won that contest, and their performance in Saturday’s Eurovision final is likely to be watched by more than 150 million people. The Eurovision winner will be decided by a mix of public voting and points from national juries. Victory for KAJ would give Sweden a record eight victories since the contest was founded in 1956, adding KAJ to a list of Swedish winners that includes ABBA. It would also mean a huge amount to Swedish-speaking Finns, who make up about 5% of Finland’s population — and to sauna enthusiasts. Sauna-lovers from Vora — along with the Finnish city of Tampere, which bills itself as the sauna capital of the world — drove a mobile sauna 1,500 miles (2,500 kilometers) to Basel, parked it near the Rhine and opened it to the public for free during the weeklong Eurovision festivities. A dip in the chilly river after working up a sweat was optional. It sparked the kind of cultural cross-fertilization that fans say is the essence of Eurovision. At the pop-up sauna, local Swiss people steamed and chatted with Finns, a Canadian and others. When KAJ dropped by for a visit, they were mobbed by selfie-seeking fans. “I love Finnish sauna culture, because it celebrates the freedom of choice,” said Dorothee Schulte-Basta, a Vora resident who traveled to Basel with the mobile sauna. “There are no rules in the sauna. Come as you are — everyone’s equal in the sauna.” Finnish politicians have long used saunas, relaxed but exposing, as an ideal setting for hard talks, a practice known as “sauna diplomacy.” KAJ wear drab suits onstage in tribute to Urho Kekkonen, a long-serving Finnish president who famously deployed the technique in talks with Finland’s overbearing neighbor the Soviet Union. KAJ never thought a lo-fi song about rural saunas would take them so far at a competition known for electro-pop, outrageous outfits and over-the-top staging. “When you sit there on the stage and the song is about to start and you see all the LED screens, the millions of lights, and we’re just three dudes sitting and grilling a sausage, the contrast is so funny,” Norrgård said. “And that’s exactly our type of humor — you shouldn’t be doing this, this is so stupid. It’s funny. It’s really cool as well.”      

More than 100 shops were gutted in a devastating fire at Sreenagar Bazar of Munshiganj district early Friday. The fire-affected shops were in Lungi Patti, Baina Patti, Mithai (sweetmeats) Patti, Dudh (milk) Patti, Seka Ruti Patti, and Murgi (chicken) Patti. Deputy Assistant Director of Munshiganj Fire Service and Civil Defence Shafiqul Islam said the fire started from a yogurt shop adjacent to the Mithai Patti around 2am and spread soon. initially the night guards accompanied by others tried to douse the flame, they failed and sought help from the Fire Service, he said.Five firefighting units rushed to the spot and doused the flame after around six hours of efforts at 8am, the fire service official said. The cause of the fire could not be known yet, he said. Bailey Road fire doused after a two hour-long battle

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked eight on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 129 at 10:50am this morning (May 16, 2025). Today’s air was classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups,’ referring to a health threat, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. India’s Delhi, China’s Shanghai and Chile’s Santiago cities respectively occupied the first, second and third spots on the list, with AQI scores of 204, 170 and 161 respectively. Dhaka’s air quality turns ‘moderate’ this morning The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

The protesting students and teachers of Jagannath University (JnU) have announced fresh programmes, including mass hunger strike, to press home their four-point demands. As part of the protest, a rally is scheduled to be held in front of Kakrail Mosque at 10am followed by hunger strike after Jummah prayer. Prof Rais Uddin, general secretary of the JnU Teachers’ Association, announced the programmes at midnight Thursday. He said, “We have come to assert our rights. Police have indiscriminately attacked us. This is injustice. We will not go home without fulfilling our demands.” The teachers’ leader warned that the movement will continue until a clear declaration regarding the demands is made. JnU students, teachers announce shutdown Protesting the attack on the students and teachers, May 14 was declared as ‘Black Day’ for the university. Their demands are: a housing allowance scholarship for 70% of students starting in the 2025–26 fiscal year, full approval of the university’s proposed budget without cuts, final approval and implementation of the second campus at the Ecnec meeting and a fair investigation into May 14 police action and exemplary punishment of those responsible. The protests led by students and teachers turned violent on Wednesday when they were trying to march towards the chief adviser’s residence, Jamuna. Police fired tear gas, sound grenades, and used hot water to disperse them when they reached Kakrail Mosque area. Police also charged batons on the protestors, leaving over a hundred injured, including students, teachers and journalists. Students continued their sit-in at Kakrail for the second consecutive day on Thursday and even some spent the night sleeping on the street to press home their demands. JnU students continue sit-in for second day, block Kakrail intersection The tensions worsened further on Wednesday night when Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam attempted to address students in Kakrail. He was hit on the head by a plastic water bottle thrown from the crowd while he was addressing the protesters.

With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, traders at Chakbaidyanath Mukam, the country’s second-largest rawhide market, have completed their preparations.  But, a sudden rise in salt prices and the spread of a bovine virus among cattle have left them deeply concerned. Due to the virus, salted rawhides are now being sold by weight, with traders suspecting the issue stems from the side effects of overfeeding in cattle farms. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Commerce has announced that salt imports will not be necessary this year due to sufficient domestic production. Taking advantage of the situation, traders have increased the price of unrefined salt by Tk 5 per kilogram, directly affecting the leather industry. Earlier, salt was priced at Tk 10 per kilogram, but it has now risen to Tk 15, a significant hike that has alarmed rawhide traders. Rokib Uddin Kamal, a trader, said last week the price of a 70kg bag of salt was Tk 700.  Now, it stands at Tk 1,050 – indicating a Tk 5 increase per kilogram. He said this rise in salt prices will raise the cost of rawhide processing, while the price of unsalted rawhide at the retail level may fall due to reduced profit margins. Adding to the pressure, the bovine virus is damaging the quality of hides, even after salting.  These infected hides are being sold for only Tk 10 to Tk 15 per kilogram and finding buyers has become difficult. Nurul Islam, a leather trader at the Natore market, said  that excessive feeding in farms has caused cattle to develop skin infections and symptoms of lumpy skin disease. “These rawhides lose their quality after salting,” he said. Nurul expressed concern that seasonal traders, many of whom are inexperienced in identifying quality hides, may suffer major losses during Eid-ul-Adha. He shared an example from his experience said, “A seasonal trader might buy a virus-infected rawhide for Tk 700, but the wholesale dealer will offer no more than Tk 50 to Tk 100 extra. The blame will then fall on both the trader and the dealer.” Seven years on, Sunamganj’s 'Friendship Bridge' remains incomplete Following the political transition in the country on 5 August last year, this major rawhide market has largely freed itself from political interference. But, Abdul Halim, President of the Leather Traders’ Group of Natore-2, warned that if salt prices are not brought under control, traders may become discouraged, paving the way for leather smuggling. Dhaka growing too fast leaving children behind 

Amber Ruffin stood before a crowd of hundreds—writers, publishers, and editors—gathered for PEN America’s annual gala, where she recounted her own brush with censorship. “I’m technically a banned book now,” she quipped, alluding to her being dropped as a speaker for April’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner. “They invited me, then uninvited me.” The event, held Thursday night at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, served both as a protest against the silencing of voices and a celebration of the freedom to speak freely. Ruffin hosted the evening’s fundraiser, which honored several figures including actor, publisher, and book lover Sarah Jessica Parker; Egyptian poet and activist Galal El-Behairy, currently imprisoned; Wesleyan University President Michael Roth; and Macmillan CEO Jon Yaged. One of the biggest ovations was for a non-speaker, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, who during a White House meeting in February challenged President Donald Trump over her support for transgender athletes, When Trump suspended funds for a Maine child nutrition program, Mills sued in federal court and prevailed. PEN America, the century-old free speech organization, brought in Ruffin to host soon after the WHCA withdrew its invitation, contending it wanted to focus on the achievements of journalism. Ruffin is a blunt and sometimes profane critic of Trump and duly went after him Thursday, calling him “gross,” “incompetent,” “racist” and “sexually deviant.” She also praised PEN for the chance to speak out. “Thank you to PEN America for asking me to host and more importantly, thank you, PEN America, for Googling me at least once before asking me to host,” she said. “I’m looking at you, White House Correspondents Association.” Parker was presented the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award, given in previous years to Patti Smith, Robert Caro and Stephen Sondheim among others. French actor banned from Cannes red carpet amid rape allegations Parker has been a longtime champion of books and literacy and runs the publishing imprint SJP Lit, where authors include Lucy Caldwell, Linda Grant and Elysha Chang. At the Sundance Film Festival in January, she premiered a documentary film for which she served as executive producer, “The Librarians,” about the fight against book bans. “To censor a book is to limit imagination, curiosity, connection, empathy and inspiration,” Parker said during her acceptance speech. “Libraries aren’t just buildings with shelves. They are a beacon. They are warm in the winter and cool in summer, and they are sanctuaries of possibility. They are a heartbeat of the neighborhood.” El-Behairy, who has been imprisoned off and on since 2018 on charges of terrorism and “spreading false news,” won the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award, given to dissidents who have been jailed. The prize was accepted by his sister, Naiera, and father, Abdelfattah, who noted his son “paid the price for his opposition with the best years of his life wasted in prison.” Taye Diggs presented the Business Visionary award to Yaged and joked that he liked the Macmillan executive because he didn’t publish his children’s books just because Diggs was an extremely handsome and successful Black actor. Wesleyan President Michael S. Roth, a leading critic of Trump’s threats to cancel research funding at Columbia University and other schools, won the PEN/Benenson Courage Award. During a speech that was loudly cheered, he remembered a happy, outspoken and admittedly privileged childhood during which threats to democracy were rarely considered. “We are going to have to draw on love and support if we are to resist the slide towards authoritarianism that has gathered momentum across the land,” Roth said.      

Multiple airstrikes hit Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis overnight into Thursday, killing more than 50 people in a second consecutive night of heavy bombing, while another airstrike in the north of the Palestinian territory left more than a dozen people dead, authorities said. The strikes come as U.S. President Donald Trump visits the Middle East, visiting Gulf states but not Israel. There had been widespread hope that Trump’s regional visit could usher in a ceasefire deal or renewal of humanitarian aid to Gaza. An Israeli blockade of the territory is now in its third month. An Associated Press cameraman in Khan Younis counted 10 airstrikes on the city overnight into Thursday, and saw numerous bodies taken to the morgue in the city’s Nasser Hospital. It took time to identify some of the bodies due to the extent of their injuries. The hospital’s morgue confirmed 54 people had been killed. The dead included a journalist working for Qatari television network Al Araby TV, the network announced on social media, saying Hasan Samour had been killed along with 11 members of his family in one of the strikes in Khan Younis. The Israeli military had no immediate comment on the strikes. It was the second night of heavy bombing, after airstrikes Wednesday on northern and southern Gaza killed at least 70 people, including almost two dozen children. Another strike in Jabaliya in northern Gaza hit a complex including a mosque and a small medical clinic, killing 13 people, said the Civil Defense, a first responder agency operating under Gaza's Hamas-run government. Mourning for the dead in Khan Younis In Nasser Hospital, Safaa Al-Najjar, her face stained with blood, wept as the shroud-wrapped bodies of two of her children were brought to her: 1 1/2-year-old Motaz Al-Bayyok and 1 1/2 month-old Moaz Al-Bayyok. The family was caught in the overnight airstrikes. All five of Al-Najjar's other children, ranging in ages from 3 to 12, were injured, while her husband was in intensive care. One of her sons, 11-year-old Yusuf, his head heavily bandaged, screamed in grief as the shroud of his younger sibling was parted to show his face. Severe shortages leave Gaza City residents without water, bread, or basic necessities “I gave them dinner and put them to sleep as usual, it was a normal day. Suddenly I don’t know what happened, the world went upside down," she said as others tried to comfort her. "I don’t know, I don’t know … what is their fault? What is their fault?” Outside the hospital, mourners gathered to pray as the dead, laid out in rows in white body bags, were loaded onto a truck to be taken for burial. Israel has vowed to escalate the war Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed earlier in the week to push ahead with a promised escalation of force in Israel’s war in the Gaza Strip to pursue his aim of destroying the Hamas militant group, which governs Gaza. In comments released by Netanyahu’s office Tuesday, the prime minister said Israeli forces were days away from entering Gaza “with great strength to complete the mission ... It means destroying Hamas.” International rights group Human Rights Watch said Thursday that Israel’s stated plan of seizing Gaza and displacing hundreds of thousands of people “inches closer to extermination,” and called on the international community to speak out against it. The war began when Hamas-led militants killed 1,200 people in an Oct. 7, 2023 intrusion into southern Israel. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed more than 53,000 Palestinians, many of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. Almost 3,000 have been killed since Israel broke a ceasefire on March 18, the ministry said. The Health Ministry said Thursday morning that the bodies of 82 people killed in Israeli strikes, including the 54 in Khan Younis, had been brought to hospitals in the past 24 hours. The overall Palestinian death toll rose to 53,010, with another 119,998 people wounded. Hamas still holds 58 of the roughly 250 hostages it took during its Oct. 7 attack on Israel, with 23 believed to still be alive, although Israeli authorities have expressed concern for the status of three of those. Gaza’s only hospital providing cancer treatments out of service due to Israeli strikes Gaza's Health Ministry said Thursday that Israeli strikes have rendered the European Hospital Khan Younis — the only remaining facility providing cancer treatments in Gaza — out of service due to severe damage to its infrastructure and access roads. The shutdown halts all specialized treatments, including cardiac surgeries and cancer care, the ministry added. An Israeli woman on her way to give birth was killed in a West Bank attack The Israeli military conducted two airstrikes against the European Hospital on Tuesday, saying it was targeting a Hamas command center beneath the facility. Six people were killed in the strike. European Hospital director Imad al-Hout told AP there had been 200 patients in the hospital at the time of Tuesday’s strikes. They were all gradually evacuated, with the last 90 transferred to other hospitals, including Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, on Wednesday morning. Efforts were now underway to coordinate repairs to the facility, he added. Israeli blockade of aid into Gaza in its third month Palestinians in northern Gaza lined up Thursday near areas under Israeli bombardment in a desperate attempt to obtain food, as Israel’s aid blockade entered its third month. At the charity kitchen set up atop piles of rubble in Beit Lahia, dozens of Palestinians stood in a crowded line, pressing against one another, holding empty pots and plastic containers high in the air in hopes of receiving vegetable soup. Um Abed, who is displaced with 20 family members, waited in line from 9 a.m. and went home empty-handed for the second day in a row as the number of people far exceeded the available food. “I have a 3-year-old child who’s crying all day because he wants to eat … we want them to stop the war and to allow food in,” Um Abed cried and yelled as she held up her empty pot to the camera. Israel’s offensive has obliterated vast swaths of Gaza’s urban landscape and displaced 90% of the population, often multiple times. It halted the entry of all aid, including food and medication, into the territory on March 2, and international food security experts have warned that Gaza will likely fall into famine if Israel doesn’t lift its blockade and stop its military campaign. Nearly half a million Palestinians are facing possible starvation while 1 million others can barely get enough food, according to findings by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a leading international authority on the severity of hunger crises. Israeli government spokesman David Mencer on Thursday denied there was a food shortage in Gaza and claimed Hamas was “holding onto it ... they need to open up the food to the people.” Human Rights Watch said Israel's plan to seize Gaza and remain there, coupled with the “systematic destruction” of civilian infrastructure and the block on all imports into the territory, were cause for signatories to the Genocide Convention to act to prevent Israel’s moves. The group also called on Hamas to free the hostages it still holds. Israel vehemently denies accusations that it is committing genocide in Gaza.

The United Nations on Thursday forecast slower global economic growth this year and next, pointing to the impact of the surge in U.S. tariffs and increasing trade tensions. U.N. economists also cited the volatile geopolitical landscape and threats of rising production costs, supply chain disruptions and financial turbulence. “These days, there’s so much uncertainty in the air,” said Shantanu Mukherjee, director of the Economic Analysis and Policy Division at the U.N. Department of Economic and Social Affairs. “It’s been a nervous time for the global economy,” he told reporters while launching the midyear forecast. “In January this year, we were expecting two years of stable — if subpar — growth, and since then, prospects have diminished, accompanied by significant volatility across various dimensions.” The U.N. is now forecasting global economic growth of 2.4% this year and 2.5% next year — a drop of 0.4 percentage point each year from its projections in January. Last year, the global economy grew 2.9%. Mukherjee said the slowing is affecting most countries and regions, but among the most severely hit are the poorest and least developed countries, whose growth prospects have fallen from 4.6% to 4.1% just since January. Chinese businesses view tariff pause with caution and uncertainty “That translates into a loss of billions in economic output for the most disadvantaged of countries,” which are home to over half the global population living in extreme poverty, he said. The world’s developed and developing countries also are projected to suffer, according to the U.N. report. Economic growth in the United States is now projected to drop significantly, from 2.8% last year to 1.6% this year, it said, noting that higher tariffs and policy uncertainty are expected to weigh on private investment and consumption. China’s growth is expected to slow to 4.6% this year from 5% in 2024 as a result of subdued consumer sentiment, disruptions in its export-oriented manufacturing companies, and continuing challenges in its property sector, the report said. The European Union’s growth is forecast to remain the same this year as it was last year — just 1%, the report said, citing weaker net exports and higher trade barriers. The United Kingdom’s economic growth of 1.1% last year is projected to fall to 0.9%. Weakening trade, slowing investments and falling commodity prices are also forecast to erode growth in other major developing economies, including Brazil, Mexico and South Africa. India will remain one of the world’s fastest-growing large economies, but the U.N. forecast said its growth is expected to drop from 7.1% in 2024 to 6.3% this year. American Eagle shares slide after pulling 2025 outlook, $75m inventory write-down The U.N.’s global economic growth forecast is lower than the International Monetary Fund’s. On a more positive note, Mukherjee said the U.N. is expecting that bilateral negotiations will lead to lower tariffs, although he said they won’t return to the levels before U.S. President Donald Trump’s February announcement. Nonetheless, Mukherjee said, resolving uncertainties would help individuals and businesses move forward with economic decisions and that would have a positive impact on the global economy.

New Mexico announced two new measles cases Thursday and North Dakota added one. The U.S. surpassed 1,000 measles cases Friday. Texas still accounts for the vast majority of cases in an outbreak that also spread measles to New Mexico, Oklahoma and Kansas. Two unvaccinated elementary school-aged children died from measles-related illnesses in the epicenter in West Texas, and an adult in New Mexico who was not vaccinated died of a measles-related illness. Other states with active outbreaks — which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. North America has three other ongoing outbreaks. One outbreak in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in 1,440 cases from mid-October through May 6 — up 197 cases in the last reported week. Alberta, Canada, also has a growing outbreak that has sickened almost 400 as of May 14. And the Mexican state of Chihuahua had 1,194 measles cases and one death as of Wednesday, according to data from the state health ministry. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is preventable through vaccines, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000. As the virus takes hold in U.S. communities with low vaccination rates, health experts fear that spread could stretch on for a year. Here’s what else you need to know about measles in the U.S. How many measles cases are there in Texas? There are a total of 717 cases across 32 counties, most of them in West Texas, state health officials said Tuesday. The state confirmed only eight more cases since its update Friday. The state also added one hospitalization to its count, for a total of 93 throughout the outbreak. State health officials estimated about 1% of cases — fewer than 10 — are actively infectious. Fifty-seven percent of Texas’ cases are in Gaines County, population 22,892, where the virus started spreading in a close-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community. The county has had 405 cases since late January — just over 1.7% of the county’s residents. The April 3 death in Texas was an 8-year-old child, according to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Local health officials said the child did not have underlying health conditions and died of “what the child’s doctor described as measles pulmonary failure.” A unvaccinated child with no underlying conditions died of measles in Texas in late February; Kennedy said the child was 6. How many measles cases are there in New Mexico? Over 900 Measles cases reported in the US with outbreaks in 10 States New Mexico added two new measles cases Thursday for a total of 73. They are the first cases in Sandoval County, north of Albuquerque. Seven people have been hospitalized since the outbreak started. Most of the state’s cases are in Lea County. Three are in Eddy County, two in Doña Ana County and Chaves and Curry counties have one each. An unvaccinated adult died of measles-related illness March 6. The person did not seek medical care. How many cases are there in Oklahoma? Oklahoma held steady with a total of 14 confirmed and three probable cases as of Tuesday. The state health department is not releasing which counties have cases, but Cleveland, Oklahoma and Sequoyah counties have had public exposures in the past couple of months. How many cases are there in Kansas? Kansas has a total of 56 cases across 10 counties in the southwestern part of the state, with two hospitalizations. All but two of the cases are connected, and most of the cases are in Gray County. How many cases are there in Indiana? Indiana has eight cases, all of them in Allen County in the northeast part of the state. The cases have no known link to other outbreaks, the Allen County Department of Health has said. How many cases are there in Michigan? Michigan has eight confirmed cases of measles, with an outbreak of four connected cases in Montcalm County in the western part of the state that health officials say is tied to the Ontario outbreak. State health officials said Wednesday that what they thought was a ninth case wasn't after further testing; a child had an unrelated illness but initially tested positive for measles because they recently got the vaccine. Vaccination does not cause measles and people who are recently vaccinated are not contagious. The measles vaccine contains a weakened form of the live virus that can trigger an immune system response that shows up on early tests. How many cases are there in Montana? Montana added three new measles cases in the last two weeks, bringing the total to eight. The state's outbreak started in mid-April in southwestern Gallatin County — Montana’s first measles cases in 35 years. Health officials didn’t say whether the cases are linked to other outbreaks in North America. How many cases are there in North Dakota? North Dakota, which hadn't seen measles since 2011, is up to 12 cases as of Thursday. There are two cases in Cass County on the eastern side of the state. The rest are in Williams County in western North Dakota on the Montana border and are not linked to Cass County. The state health department says three of the confirmed cases in Williams County are linked to the first case — an unvaccinated child who health officials believe got it from an out-of-state visitor. Measles is one of the world's most contagious viruses. Here's what to know and how to avoid it The other five cases were people who were not vaccinated and did not have contact with the other cases, causing concern about community transmission. The state health department said four people diagnosed with measles attended classes while infectious at a Williston elementary school, middle school and high school. How many cases are there in Ohio? Ohio remained steady Thursday at 34 measles cases and one hospitalization, according to the Ohio Department of Health. That count includes only Ohio residents. The state has two outbreaks: Ashtabula County near Cleveland has 16 cases, and Knox County in east-central Ohio has 20 — 14 among Ohio residents and the rest among visitors. Allen, Cuyahoga, Holmes and Defiance counties have one case each. How many cases are there in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania has 15 cases overall in 2025 as of Friday, including international travel-related cases in Montgomery County and one in Philadelphia. There were eight measles cases in Erie County in far northwest Pennsylvania in late April; the county declared an outbreak in mid-April. How many cases are there in Tennessee? Tennessee had six measles cases as of early May. Health department spokesman Bill Christian said all cases are the middle part of the state, and that “at least three of these cases are linked to each other” but declined to specify further. The state also did not say whether the cases were linked to other outbreaks or when Tennessee’s outbreak started. Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.? Measles cases also have been reported in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to someone who caught the disease abroad. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles. What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine? The best way to avoid measles is to get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old. COVID-19 disrupted progress on Measles, Rubella elimination: WHO Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said. People who have documentation that they had measles are immune, and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity." Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots. What are the symptoms of measles? Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash. The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC. Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death. How can you treat measles? There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.

Coinbase, the largest cryptocurrency exchange based in the U.S., said Thursday that criminals had improperly obtained personal data on the exchange’s customers for use in crypto-stealing scams and were demanding a $20 million payment not to publicly release the info. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said in a social media post that criminals had bribed some of the company’s customer service agents who live outside the U.S. to hand over personal data on customers, like names, dates of birth and partial social security numbers. “(The stolen data) allows them to conduct social engineering attacks where they can call our customers impersonating Coinbase customer support and try to trick them into sending their funds to the attackers,” Armstrong said. Social engineering is a popular hacking strategy, as humans tend to be the weakest link in any network. Many large companies have suffered hacks and data breaches as a result of such scams in recent years. DoorDash delivery driver pleads guilty to stealing $2.5 million in deliveries scam Coinbase did not specify how many customers had their data stolen or fell prey to social engineering scams. But the company did pledge to reimburse any who did. Coinbase shares fell 6% in trading around midday. The shares are still up about 22% this month due to gains in bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Coinbase estimated that it would have to spend between $180 million to $400 million “relating to remediation costs and voluntary customer reimbursements relating to this incident.” The SEC filing said that the company had, “in previous months,” detected some of its customer service agents “accessing data without business need.” Those employees had been fired, and the company said it stepped up its fraud prevention efforts. Coinbase said it received an email from the attackers on Sunday demanding a ransom of $20 million worth of bitcoin not to publicly release the customer data they had stolen. Armstrong said the company was refusing to pay the ransom and would instead offer a $20 million bounty for anyone who provided information that led to the attackers’ arrest. Nvidia to send 18,000 AI chips to Saudi Arabia “For these would-be extortionists or anyone seeking to harm Coinbase customers, know that we will prosecute you and bring you to justice,” Armstrong said. “And know you have my answer.”

Pakistan’s premier Twenty20 cricket tournament resumes Saturday after a ceasefire between India and Pakistan was achieved. There will be a handful of foreign players returning for the remaining eight games. The Pakistan Super League was suspended on May 9 but last weekend Pakistan and India agreed to a ceasefire after talks to defuse their most serious military confrontation in decades. The Indian Premier League, also suspended due to the outbreak between the countries, will also resume this weekend. PSL organizers first proposed moving the tournament to Dubai but later decided to postpone it after foreign players were reluctant to participate in the tournament due to security concerns. Around 43 foreign cricketers — competing on six PSL teams — were flown out of Pakistan from an airbase in Rawalpindi. Rawalpindi will host the remaining four league matches between May 17-19 before Lahore hosts the playoffs from May 21, including the final at Gaddafi Stadium on May 25. Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikander Raza is among some of foreign players who have returned to Pakistan. Raza, who plays for Lahore Qalandars, is available for Lahore’s crucial last league game against Peshawar Zalmi on Sunday before he flies to England for test duty starting next week. Raza will not be available for Lahore if the two-time champions qualify for the playoffs due to his test commitments. Nahid, Rishad opt out of PSL return, confirms BCB He said that if the PSL resumed, he planned to return to Pakistan, even for just one match. “I was very clear in my head that I was always going to go back,” Raza told The Associated Press as he trained with his teammates at Islamabad Club ground on Thursday. “This PSL is not just about winning a trophy, there’s a lot more to it. All the overseas (players) that have come back, whether they’re in Pakistan or India, I think credit must be given to them because cricket unites and the whole purpose of sports all around the world is to unite cultures, countries.” Lahore will also have Sri Lanka batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan for its must-win last league game against the Babar Azam-led Peshawar side after Tom Curran and Daryl Mitchel were ruled out due to injuries. Raza said it was tough for the families of all the players living abroad after there was escalation at the borders. “Whether it’s Pakistan or India, what happened was tough for everybody,” Raza said. “Sometimes when you’re on the ground, things may not be as bad, but (for) people back home watching TV, sometimes it’s very hard to control what media tells you.” Lahore team director Sameen Rana said it was important that the PSL returns to finish the season. “There’s a lot of uncertainty and the conditions which were happening on the ground was not the best, it's unfortunate,” Rana said. “But from our perspective . . . the important thing is that the PSL is resuming, and that’s what matters.” Defending champions Islamabad United has brought in Alex Hales of England and Rassie van Dussen of South Africa after initially picking both of them in the supplementary draft while Ben Dwarshuis of Australia is flying back to rejoin the team. Islamabad, the three-time PSL champions, won five games in a row at the start of the season before four successive defeats. IPL uncertain for Fizz due to NOC issues, overlapped matches Finn Allen of New Zealand and Rilee Rossouw of South Africa are rejoining first-place Quetta Gladiators, who have 13 points, three points ahead of Karachi and Islamabad. Karachi is expecting to have its captain David Warner back from Australia in time to lead the team against Peshawar on Saturday.

This was Lamine Yamal's season. So it just had to be the teenage phenom who scored the decisive goal to clinch Barcelona's 28th Spanish league title. And what a goal it was for the player who still wears dental braces and sports a new dyed-blond hairdo. The 17-year-old struck the winner in Barcelona's 2-0 victory at crosstown rival Espanyol on Thursday when he slid past two defenders outside the area and whipped one his now trademark left-footed curlers into the corner of the net. It was a perfect culmination to Yamal's last 10 months. After helping Spain win the European Championship last summer, Yamal excelled for Barcelona this campaign with his goals, dribbling and playmaking as he confirmed his status as the next big star of global soccer. Along with Raphinha, Pedri and company, and Barcelona was unstoppable. “I always try my best and today I was lucky it went in,” Yamal said. "I am very happy I could help the team and celebrate it.” SAFF U-19 Champs: Holders Bangladesh to play Nepal in first semifinal on Friday Fermín López ensured the win in stoppage time after Espanyol was reduced to 10 men in the 80th when Leandro Cabrera received a direct red for hitting Yamal in the stomach while disputing a ball. Barcelona won the title with two rounds remaining. It completed a domestic double with the Copa del Rey title — treble if you add the Spanish Super Cup — and reached the Champions League semifinals in a fantastic first season for coach Hansi Flick. Flick’s team virtually ended Madrid’s title defense when it beat its top rival 4-3 on Sunday, making it four of four clasico victories across all competitions this season. Madrid's victory over Mallorca on Wednesday prevented Barcelona from winning the title without playing. But the Catalan club needed just two points from its final three games of the season. Barcelona’s players danced briefly on the field to celebrate while sprinklers doused them with water. “You don’t win a league every day and we have to enjoy this and give it the value it has,” said Barcelona midfielder Pedri after completing his 200th game for his club at age 22. Lionel Messi posted a message on Instagram sending his “Congratulations” for his old team. Real Madrid also congratulated its fierce rival on X, while thousands of Barcelona fans gathered to celebrate in downtown Barcelona. Flick leads the way Barcelona dominated the domestic competitions, winning 15 and drawing two of its league games in 2025. Toss in the cups, and the only tiny blemish was coming oh-so-close to reaching the Champions League final before it fell in gut-wrenching fashion at Inter Milan. Yamal credited his coach for inspiring a core of players who had won nothing last season under Xavi Hernández. “We are thankful for what Xavi have us, but it is true that coach (Flick) has given us a new life,” Yamal said. Looking back on his arrival in the summer, Flick said that he had instilled a “positive” attitude in his team and it had adapted well to his style of play that requires a high defensive line and all-in pressing. Real Madrid rallies to beat Mallorca 2-1 and delay Barcelona’s title celebrations “Barcelona has to win titles and three titles is really great,” Flick said. “I suffered a bit after the game in Milan, but after winning three titles I am very happy and the club is too.” Yamal decides the match Espanyol outplayed its wealthier rival in the first half. But Urko González shot wide on a counterattack early on and Javi Puado couldn’t beat Wojciech Szczesny in a one-on-one opportunity. But Yamal's great shot in the 53rd minute put Barcelona in control. Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García, who is linked to a move to a big club this summer, including Barcelona, dove but couldn’t reach the perfectly placed shot. On Yamal’s goal, Pedri said: “He scored two goals like that today in practice. We are fortunate to have him on our side.” Espanyol needed to a good result from the derby as it hopes to stay out of the relegation fight. Espanyol remained in 16th place and five points from the drop zone. Car incident outside stadium The game was briefly paused by the referee in the opening minutes when a car rammed into a crowd outside the RCDE Stadium, injuring several people. Authorities said it was an accident and not related to the game. Athletic qualifies for Champions League Fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao secured a Champions League spot after winning 2-0 at Getafe. Third-placed Atletico Madrid lost 2-0 at Osasuna, while Real Betis stumbled in its fight for a fifth-place finish and the last Champions League spot after drawing 2-2 Rayo Vallecano.

Construction of a 'Friendship Bridge' over the Jadukata River in Sunamganj remains incomplete even after seven years, leaving residents on both banks of the river increasingly frustrated. Launched on 4 December 2018 under the Construction of Important Bridges on Rural Roads project by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), the 750-metre bridge was originally scheduled for completion within 30 months. But, the project has undergone four deadline extensions over the past seven years, with significant portions still unfinished. Despite several girders being installed across the river, the bridge lacks full connectivity—depriving hundreds of thousands of residents in Tahirpur, Bishwambarpur, Dharmapasha and Madanagar upazilas of improved road access. The incomplete structure has not only disrupted communication but also hindered potential growth in trade, tourism and employment in the region, according to locals. The bridge, situated between Garkati and Binnakuli villages in Tahirpur’s Badaghat union, was envisioned as a vital link to enhance connectivity with three customs stations and popular tourist destinations along the scenic Jadukata River. Yet, more than half a decade on, locals are still forced to cross the river by boat, risking their lives, particularly during the monsoon season. Crucial Sylhet road and bridge collapse into Kushiyara amid relentless erosion

Three people were killed and at least 30 others injured in a head-on collision between a passenger bus and a truck on Dhaka-Khulna highway in Gopalganj on Thursday night. The identities of the casualties could not be known yet. According to police, the accident took place when a Boleshwar Paribahan bus, en route to Chattogram from Mongla, collided with a speeding truck coming from the opposite direction in Fukra area of Kashiani upazila around 9pm. The accident left the trucker and two others killed on the spot and 30 injured. Among the injured, 18 were admitted to the 250-bed Gopalganj General Hospital while others received treatment at Kashiani Upazila Health Complex. Sylhet records 30 deaths in 29 road accidents in April: Report Officer-in-Charge of Kashiani police station Khandaker Hafizur Rahman said the accident caused a two-hour traffic standstill on the busy highway, with fire service teams and locals working to clear the road and restore movement. To manage the extra pressure of the patients, additional medical staff were deployed at the Gopalganj General Hospital, he added.

The three-day ‘International Bioscience Conference and Carnival’ is set to begin on Friday at Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU). With the theme “Innovation and Collaboration in Bioscience, Biosafety, and Biosecurity: Bridging Sustainable Health and Agriculture,” the event aims at bringing together local and international scientists, researchers, and students for exchanging knowledge and sharing innovation. The opening ceremony will begin at 2:30pm at the Rangamati Tourism Holiday Complex where RMSTU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Atiar Rahman will deliver a welcome speech. Keynote speeches from leading national researchers and a discussion session on infectious disease control, genetic research, artificial intelligence, and health technologies are scheduled to be held. Over the next two days, all sessions will be hosted on the RMSTU campus. The event features a wide array of activities including lectures, technical sessions, poster presentations, a science-themed debate, idea contests and a vibrant science carnival. Second IHSB Business Carnival to begin on Friday at Uttara Researchers will present findings on emerging topics such as new drug discoveries, evolving strains of dengue and influenza, the use of probiotics, and AI-driven disease diagnostics. Organisers expressed hope that the conference will mark a new chapter for scientific research and innovation in the hill region, strengthening the academic and research ecosystem of Rangamati and beyond.

The wreckage of a passenger launch and a bulkhead could not be towed to the shore three days after the vessels collided with each other in Dhaleshwari River in Munshiganj, the authorities said late Thursday night. The collision occurred around 3pm on Tuesday near Mollarchar in the middle of the river. Both launch MV Mayur-7 and bulkhead Redwan Riyad-1 were partially damaged and got locked together after the crash. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. The launch was en route from Sadarghat to Chandpur, carrying around 250 passengers, when it collided head-on with the oncoming bulkhead. Shortly after the incident, MV Eagle-4, another passenger launch, rushed to the scene and safely evacuated all passengers from Mayur-7. Couple drowns as boat sinks in Pabna Owner of the launch Fayez Ahmed said efforts were ongoing to safely remove both vessels. However, a large portion of the three-deck launch is lodged atop the bulkhead, making it impossible to tow it away using another vessel. Authorities and salvage teams continue to work on separating the vessels but progress remains slow due to the complex positioning and size of the launch.

Four Bangladesh players-studded Paro FC Women’s made a flying start in the Bhutan Women’s National Football League with a record breaking 28-0 goals victory over Samtse Women’s Football Club at the Samtse Artificial turf in Bhutan on Thursday. Four Bangladeshi booters scored 25 goals out of total 28. Former Bangladesh captain Sabina Khatun scored nine goals to be adjudged player of the match, Monika Chakma made seven, Matsushima Sumaiya five and Ritu Porna Chakma four goals. SAFF U-19 Champs: Holders Bangladesh to play Nepal in first semifinal on Friday On last Tuesday, three Bangladesh players studded Royal Thiumpu College Women’s FC outplayed Gelephu City Women’s FC by 16-0 goals at the RTC Artificial turf. Ten Bangladeshi women’s booters now playing in the Bhutan Women’s National League for three different clubs.

Three workers were killed and two others suffered injuries after a six-wheeler freight tractor overturned in Baghaichhari upazila of the district on Thursday. The deceased were identified as Nochan Chakma (45), Nibaran Chakma (32) and Lettoudo (35), said  Md. Humayun Kabir, Officer-in-Charge of Baghaichhari Police Station. The accident occurred in the afternoon  when the freight tractor overturned on the road in Kojoichhari border area while transporting goods, resulting in the deaths of three workers on the spot and injuries to two others, the OC added. Madrasah student killed in Sherpur road accident The injured—Suman Chakma (27) and Sohel Chakma (32)—were initially taken to the Upazila Health Complex. Later, they were transferred to Khagrachhari Modern Sadar Hospital for advanced treatment.

In an effort to strengthen cultural diplomacy and international camaraderie, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is set to host the first-ever diplomatic badminton and table tennis tournament on Friday. The tournament will be held at the premises of International School Dhaka (ISD) located in Bashundhara residential area. Following the overwhelming success of previous diplomatic football and cricket tournaments organized in collaboration with Gameplay Limited, badminton and table tennis have been added for this new edition under the ministry’s diplomatic sports initiative. There will be arrangement for table tennis (Singles and Doubles) and badminton (Doubles only) for the participants. There will be an opening ceremony at 9.30am on Friday, closing ceremony and prize distribution will be held on May 17. 10th Shah Cement AKS Cup Golf Tournament begins A number of brands have joined this initiative to make it a success. This two-day sporting event will bring together over a hundred players representing embassies, high commissions, and international organisations based in the capital. The tournament aims to foster a spirit of healthy competition, cultural exchange, and interpersonal bonds among members of the diplomatic and international community in Bangladesh, said the organisers on Thursday.

The Policy Research Institute of Bangladesh (PRI) launched its inaugural edition of the Monthly Macroeconomic Insights (MMI) on Thursday. The MMI is a new initiative developed by PRI’s Center for Macroeconomic Analysis (CMEA) with support from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), said a press release. The event was chaired by PRI Chairman Dr. Zaidi Sattar, with Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, Special Assistant to the Ministry of Finance, attending as the Chief Guest. Dr. Md. Habibur Rahman, Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, joined as the guest of honour. Clinton Pobke, Deputy Head of Mission, and Mr. Joshua Gacutan, Second Secretary, from the Australian High Commission in Bangladesh, participated as Special Guests. Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury said global economic history shows that nations achieve sustained development when policy coherence is paired with strong social capital. Bangladesh must prioritize both. The government is committed to aligning its policies around clear objectives. "While challenges are inevitable, LDC graduation offers a valuable opportunity to reassess our trajectory, learn from past missteps, and move forward with renewed strategic clarity and resolve,” he added. Dr. Md. Habibur Rahman said, “Exchange rate liberalization will benefit Bangladesh on multiple fronts. Notably, the exchange rate has remained stable even after the move to a floating regime. Considering the current reserve levels, improvements in the current account, and overall balance of payments, we are well-positioned to manage any potential exchange rate overshooting. I remain optimistic about the trajectory of economic recovery.” Mr. Clinton Pobke commended the initiative, “We are proud to support efforts that enhance evidence-based policy dialogue and contribute to more effective, timely policymaking. I commend PRI for bringing together macroeconomic data, rigorous analysis, and impactful presentation in a way that can meaningfully inform and influence policy decisions.” The March edition of the MMI highlighted key developments, including a modest rebound in GDP growth in Q2 FY25, persistent inflationary pressures, and progress in the external sector driven by robust export performance and strong remittance inflows. However, it also underscored persistent revenue collection challenges and limited fiscal headroom for counter-cyclical spending. PRI will host monthly discussions based on the MMI, bringing together stakeholders from government, development partners, industry, and academia. Designed to offer timely, data-driven insights, the MMI aims to support evidence-based policymaking and informed business decisions while fostering dialogue on Bangladesh’s evolving macroeconomic landscape.

A three-day international exhibition titled “Safe HVACR and Cold Chain 2025” began at the International Convention Center Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka on Thursday. Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman inaugurated the exhibition as the chief guest. At the inaugural ceremony, he said that cold chain entrepreneurs are ensuring the country's food security. “The cold storage is playing a special role in the agricultural economy by preserving various products including mango pulp, tomatoes, carrots, meat, and dates. A Korean company has come forward to preserve onions,” he added. Mustafa Azad Chowdhury, president of Bangladesh Cold Storage Association, Bilal Belut, commerciaSU/counselor of the Turkish Embassy in Dhaka, Han Jingchao, president of Trade and Services Branch of Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB), Nur Alam, president of ASHRAE Bangladesh Chapter, Engineer Md. Hasmatuzzaman, former president of ASHRAE Bangladesh Chapter, and Md. Faizul Alam, managing director of Sever International Limited, spoke in the event among others. Bangladeshi MPPE companies participate in medical device exhibition in Japan The speakers demanded the development of the cold chain system to maintain the supply through proper management of the country's perishable products. They highlighted the importance of cold chain infrastructure in Bangladesh's agriculture and food sector. Organised by Saver International Limited, the exhibition is open to all visitors from 10 am to 7 pm every day until Saturday. Local and foreign institutions companies related to HVACR and cold chain are participating in the exhibition. This is a major exhibition on HVACR and cold chain industry. Various technologies, infrastructure construction and HVACR related products and solution services companies have participated here. Visitors are visiting the exhibition from various government and private projects and organizations and getting the opportunity to see many products and solution services here. 'Bangladeshi and Swedish Baba' Photo Exhibition launched in Chattogram The exhibition featured the products and technologies required for cold chain and infrastructure construction that are sustainable, energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

Two people died, and another was injured after being struck by lightning in Kushtia and Meherpur on Thursday. In Kushtia's Mirpur, a college student was killed, and another person was injured by lightning while working in a field at 4 pm on Thursday, said Mominul Islam, officer-in-charge (OC) of Mirpur Police Station. The deceased was identified as Bijoy, 21, son of Shamsuddin of Khadara area. Bijoy was a student at Kushtia Government College. Meanwhile, a woman was killed in a lightning strike in Gangni Upazila of Meherpur. The incident occurred on Thursday evening during heavy rain. The deceased, Rita Khatun, was the wife of Saudi expatriate Qiamuddin of Raipur village. According to local sources,  Rita Khatun was bringing home Boro paddy after being harvested from the field. She was seriously injured in the lightning strike, and locals took her to Gangni Upazila Health Complex where doctors on duty declared her dead upon arrival. Dr. Zahidul Islam, the medical officer at Gangni Hospital, confirmed Rita's death.  

Malaysia has expressed firm commitment to support the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus and its crucial reform agenda. The development follows two separate meetings held between Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Asif Nazrul, Malaysian Home and Human Resources Minsters YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail and YB Steven Sim Chee Keong.    Lutfey Siddiqi, special envoy of the Chief Adviser on International Affairs, accompanied the adviser in the meetings in Kuala Lumpur, according to a message received here. While recognising the important role played by the Bangladeshi migrants in the development of Malaysia, the country expressed strong desire to reset the labour relations with Bangladesh and diversify the bilateral relations by exploring potentials for collaboration in other areas, such as, trade, investment as development partners. Referring to the commitment of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to address the issue of 17,000 plus stranded Bangladeshi workers, who despite fulfilling all condition and paying full migration cost were not able to enter Malaysia within the deadline of 31 May 2024, Adviser Asif requested the Malaysian side to consider their recruitment in Malaysia at the earliest opportunity. Dhaka, Tokyo outline areas of cooperation ahead of Prof Yunus’ Japan visit His Malaysian counterpart YB Steven Sim said his country has decided to process soon the recruitment of 7,964 stranded workers in the first batch and as proposed by Bangladesh, the recruitment process of those workers will be handled by Bangladesh Overseas Employment Services Limited (BOESL). The Malaysian side referred to the ongoing policy reforms in its labour sector including its multi-tier levy system and quota for foreign workers in its key sectors. They also mentioned that Bangladesh will get top priority in the recruitment of foreign workers in the upcoming calling. Both sides shared the need for addressing the challenges in the recruitment system, with a view to ensuring a fair, ethical, and transparent migration process and reducing the migration cost. The Malaysian government informed that they have decided to introduce a common system for recruitment of migrant workers which they will apply to all source countries. Referring to the existing recruitment system that excludes a large number of recruiting agencies and allows monopoly in the recruitment process, the Advisor of Bangladesh requested the Malaysian side to consider opening the market to all registered recruiting agencies of Bangladesh. Foreign Adviser stresses civilian, peacekeeper protection at UN Berlin summit Malaysia assured of ensuring access to all qualified and compliant recruiting agencies. Both the countries also proposed to introduce a performance review mechanism and arrange more frequent meetings between the countries at the technical level to address complaints in the recruitment process, which Bangladesh welcomed. Adviser Asif drew the attention of his counterpart to the visa related problems faced by Bangladeshi workers, requesting to consider issuing multiple entry visas to the Bangladeshi workers, consistent with the practice applicable to other source countries. The Malaysian government informed that they are currently working on a proposal to revisit this provision of single-entry visa for Bangladeshi workers. Hopefully very soon the Bangladeshi workers will be granted multiple entry visas. The adviser also raised the issue of regularising the irregular workers of Bangladesh, many of whom lost their regular status due to reasons beyond their control. In reply, the Malaysian side informed that they usually introduce a recalibration process which offers the irregular workers to regularize their status upon payment of a fee; however, it is done on a compassionate basis. They also stressed the importance of educating the migrants to comply with the immigration law.  Bangladesh envoy meets Swedish FM, discusses bilateral ties Asif requested Malaysia to consider recruiting more Bangladeshi workers in the skilled or professional categories and expressed Bangladesh’s readiness to provide doctors, nurses, security guards etc. The Malaysian ministers took positive note of the proposal, especially for recruitment of nurses and agreed to work at the technical level to explore opportunities for migration in those sectors.  Both sides also discussed potentials for economic cooperation through increased trade and investment, with a view to creating more jobs for the workers.  

Bangladesh Jewelers Association (Bajus) has decreased the price of gold by Tk 3452 per bhori, with effective from Friday. The Bajus has fixed the price of a bhori of 22-carat gold at Tk165,734, which was sold at Tk 169,186 per bhori on Thursday. Gold price reduced by Tk3137 per bhori, effective from Tuesday  The Bajus notification stated that the price of pure gold (acid gold) has decreased in the local market. As a result, the new price of gold has been determined considering the overall situation. According to the new prices, the price of 22-carat gold per bhori (11.664 grams) has been fixed at Tk 1,65,734, 21-carat gold per bhori at Tk 1,58,199, 18-carat gold per bhori at Tk1,35, 606 and the price of traditional gold per bhori at Tk 1,12,033. Gold price increases by Tk1562 per bhori from Wednesday On Thursday, the price of per bhori of 22-carat gold (11.664 grams) was at Tk 169,186, 21-carat per bhori at Tk1,61,499, 18-carat per bhori at Tk1,38, 428 and the price of traditional gold per bhori at Tk 1,14,435. Although the price of gold has deincreased, the price of silver has remained unchanged.

Defending champions Bangladesh team will play Nepal in the first semifinal of the six-nation South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Men's Under-19 Championship on Friday (May 16) targeting a final berth after beating the Himalayan nation. The first semifinal match between Group A champions Bangladesh and Group B runners-up Nepal will kicks-off 4:30pm Bangladesh time at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia, in the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh. Hosts and Group B champions India will encounter Group A runners up Maldives in the other semifinal, also on Friday at 8pm at the same venue. Bangladesh team made final training session at the NERIST ground in Nirjuli Thursday afternoon ahead of their clash with Nepal in the Friday’s semifinal In the day’s final practice session, the players and coaching staff are putting maximum effort in preparation, worked hard and united with strong determination to secure a place in the final. Bangladesh’s Head Coach Golam Rabbani Choton said, “We reached the semifinal after completing the group stage properly, we made good recovery both physically and mentally in the meantime, we also worked on strong and weak side of Nepal and we are fully ready for the semifinal.” Real Madrid rallies to beat Mallorca 2-1 and delay Barcelona’s title celebrations semifinal match will be competitive one. But, we will take to the field on Friday to win against Nepal” he added.Bangladesh emerged Group A champions securing four points from two group matches after beating Bhutan by 3-0 goals after making 2-2 draw with the Maldives in the opener. The Maldives managed a semifinal berth as Group A runners-up securing two points from two matches after playing 2-2 draw with both Bangladesh and Bhutan In Group B, hosts India topped the list with all win record securing full six points from straight two matches after crushing Sri Lanka by 8-0 goals and outplaying Nepal by 4-0 goals Nepal booked a seat for last four stage as Group B runners-up securing three points from two matches outplaying all losers Sri Lanka by 5-0 goals apart from their 0-4 goals losses against giant India. SAFF U-19 Champs: Holders Bangladesh emerge group champions to set up semi-final with Nepal Friday Earlier, Bangladesh team put in Group A of the regional youth soccer meet with Bhutan and the Maldives while hosts India was placed in Group B with Nepal and Sri Lanka.

The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the Indian High Commission hosted a vibrant cultural evening on Thursday at the Old India House, Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) in the capital’s Gulshan, marking Buddha Purnima with performances that reflected the life and teachings of Lord Buddha through music and dance. The evening featured spiritual reflections and classical dance performances, marking the occasion of Buddha Purnima, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana of Lord Buddha. Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma addressed the audience during the event, stating: “Today, as we celebrate the sacred Buddha Purnima festival, it is time for us to reflect on our shared values, ancient connections, and spiritual legacy which continue to shape our present and guide our future.”

Several voluntary organisations will work to green the banks of 33 canals and lakes in Dhaka city by planting trees to prevent encroachment from June 1, said Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Mohammad Azaz. Azaz announced it after attending a meeting on-site inspection of canal, lake banks and determination action plan on Thursday. The DNCC administrator said, "We are appointing one gardener for every one kilometre of the canal bank for planting and maintenance of trees. They will work together with these voluntary organizations." Dhaka Wasa, Rajuk, DNCC to work jointly on wastewater of Gulshan, Banani Each of the 33 canals has been allocated to a specific organisation. For example, Green Voice will be responsible for the Rampura canal, while OAB Foundation (RSDB) will manage the Abdullahpur canal. Other participating organisations include Brighters, Human Safety Foundation, Young Climate Action Network, Smriti Sarkar, Dakshinkhan Welfare Society, Youth Environment and Development Organization, and Alokito Kori Amra. The administrator also announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the city corporation and the volunteer organisations will be signed next week to formalise the collaboration. Environmental engineer Mohammad Abul Kashem, urban planner Sanjida Haque, and other officials from the DNCC’s Environment, Climate, and Disaster Management Circle were present during the visit and discussions.

BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas said on Thursday that both the government and other political parties have realised that BNP would come to power if elections are held. "That is why they do not want to hold elections. When they talk about elections, they have heart burning," he said during the BNP membership form distribution and membership renewal inauguration ceremony at the Cumilla District Shilpakala Academy. He also said that the freedom for which Ziaur Rahman sacrificed his life, Khaleda Zia's life is now under threat, and Tarique Rahman in exile abroad indicates that democracy is also under threat. He mentioned that earlier, "we faced dogs, but now it feels like we are facing tigers." "We will have to get our due account by holding elections,"  added the BNP leader The programme was presided over by BNP Central Committee Cumilla Divisional Organising Secretary Principal Md. Selim Bhuiyan. BNP Chairperson's Advisor Amin Ur Rashid Yasin, Cumilla Divisional Co-Organising Secretary Mostaq Mia, Comilla South District BNP President Zakaria Taher Suman, Metropolitan BNP President Udbatul Bari Abu, South District BNP Member Secretary Ashikur Rahman Mahmud Wasim and others spoke at the event.

A court in Narayanganj on Thursday sentenced two men to death and eight others to life term imprisonment in a case involving the killing of a rice mill owner around 16 years back. Judge of Narayanganj Additional District and Session Judge Court Md Mominul Islam passé the verdict, said the court’s Inspector Md Kaium Khan. The death-row convicts are Milon Molla, son of late Nurul Haque of Rupganj upazila in the district and Sajeeb, son of Abdullah of Kaliganj in Gazipur. Those awarded life imprisonment are: Md Alam Mia, Md Jobayer Rahman, Mozammel Haque, Aminul Islam, Abdul Haque, Babul Mia, Laskor Ahmed Jibon and Rahmat Ali, all from Rupganj upazila. Man to die, 4 get life term for killing trader Of them, Laskor and Rahmat were tried in absentia. Besides, the court acquitted one Rabin from the charges. According to the case statement, the accused hacked rice mill owner Nurul Haque Molla to death in Murapara area of Rupganj on August 20 in 2009. Later, a case was filed accusing some people while police submitted chargesheet against 11 people. After completing all legal procedures, the court handed down the verdict on Thursday.

Members of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in a drive arrested a fugitive accused in connection with the July movement related case from Jatrabari area of the capital on Wednesday night. The arrestee was identified as Sohel Chowdhury alias China Sohel, 50, an Awami League leader of No 51 ward and an organising secretary of Jatrabari unit AL.  Ex-MP Dhanu arrested in Dhaka He was wanted in two cases filed with Jatrabari Police Station. Based on secret information, a team of CID conducted a drive in the area and arrested him on Wednesday night. During investigations it is known that he was involved in carrying out sabotage during the anti-discrimination student movement.  Ex-mayor Taposh’s close associate arrested in Dhaka

Bangladesh cricketers Nahid Rana and Rishad Hossain have decided not to return to Pakistan for the remainder of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on Thursday. Both players were part of the 2025 PSL season and returned home earlier this month after the league was suspended due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.  Although the tournament is set to resume on May 17, the duo has opted out of making a return. Earlier, the BCB had been working with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh High Commission to assess the situation, especially after a reported drone strike near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium forced the postponement of two matches. The incident raised serious safety concerns among overseas players, including Rishad and Nahid. At the time, the board stated it was actively working to bring both players back “in a timely and secure manner.”

A two-member delegation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) has met Malcolm Bacchus, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW). The delegation, led by Mahbub Ahmed Siddique FCA, Chief Operating Officer of ICAB, met at Chartered Accountants’ Hall, 1 Moorgate Place, London on May 7. The ICAEW side included Jon Hooper, Senior Manager, International Capacity Building; Daniel Westley, Senior International Business Development Manager and Jonathan Mbewe, Senior Manager, International Development, with ICAEW President Bacchus leading the team. AKM Fazlur Rahman FCA, Chairman of the ICAB UK Chapter, was also present at the meeting. During the discussion, both parties explored a range of professional matters including mutual collaboration in capacity building, the integration of Artificial Intelligence in the accounting profession, the use of audit software and the implementation of sustainability reporting frameworks. Weekly Review: Dhaka Stock Market sees gains despite sluggish stocks Topics such as academic curriculum, students’ pathway programs, study materials and institutional training structures were also addressed. Both presidents agreed to include more specific provisions in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which is scheduled for renewal this year. ICAB has been collaborating with ICAEW since 2008 as a learning and professional development partner and recognised tuition provider. The first MoU between the two institutions was signed in 2009.  Surge in remittance: $1.94 billion sent  through legal channels till Oct 26

Bangladesh’s capital market ended the week on a bearish note as it witnessed a decline for the third consecutive day on Thursday. All key indices in both the Dhaka and Chittagong Stock Exchanges fell on the final trading day of the week, while the majority of listed companies experienced a drop in share prices. At the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), the benchmark index DSEX lost 54 points. The Shariah-based index, DSES, declined by 14 points, and the blue-chip index DS30 dropped by 20 points. Among the 395 companies traded, most saw their share prices decline. While 42 companies recorded gains, 317 saw their share prices fall and 36 companies remained unchanged. Trading in DSE, CSE begins with continued fall in indices Shares in all three categories — A, B, and Z — declined. Of the 216 dividend-yielding companies listed in category A, only 19 recorded price increases. In contrast, 182 companies in this category experienced a decrease, and 15 companies remained stable. Most of the 36 mutual funds traded also witnessed a decline in share prices, with 31 funds seeing their prices fall, 2 showing gains and 3 remaining unchanged. In the DSE block market, shares worth Tk 29 crore were traded across 31 companies, with Square Pharma topping the list by offloading shares worth Tk 21 crore. The total turnover at the Dhaka market was Tk 296 crore for the day, slightly higher than the Tk 294 crore recorded on the previous trading day. City Insurance was the top gainer with a 7.38 per cent increase in its share price. Conversely, Premier Leasing and Finance tumbled more than 9.38 per cent to close at the bottom. Decline at Chittagong Stock Exchange Similar downward pressure was observed at the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE), where the overall index fell by 137 points during the day. Among the 205 companies traded on the CSE, 37 saw their share prices rise, 151 declined, and 17 remained unchanged. The total turnover on the CSE was Tk 10.29 crore, down from BDT 11.22 crore recorded in the previous session. Samata Leather Complex led the gainers with a 10 per cent increase in share price, while Jamuna Bank suffered a steep fall of over 14 per cent to close at the bottom.  

Jagannath University (JnU) students and teachers announced shutdown of the university on Thursday to press home their various demands. Prof Dr. Rais Uddin, general secretary of the university’s Teachers’ Association, announced the closure following a meeting with protesting students on Thursday. “No classes or exams will take place until our demands are met,” he said. “We did not come to conspire. We came to demand justice for our students, who were attacked without cause. This shutdown will continue until our demands are fulfilled,” he added. The protests led by students and teachers turned violent on Wednesday when they were trying to march towards the Chief Adviser’s residence. JnU students continue sit-in for second day, block Kakrail intersection Police fired tear gas, sound grenades, and hot water to disperse them when they reached Kakrail Mosque. Police also charged batons on the protestors, leaving over a hundred injured, including students, teachers and journalists. Many were later taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for treatment. Students continued their sit-in at Kakrail for the second consecutive day on Thursday and even some spent the night sleeping on the street to press home their demand. Their demands are a housing allowance scholarship for 70% of students starting in the 2025–26 fiscal year, full approval of the university’s proposed budget without cuts, final approval and implementation of the second campus at the Ecnec meeting and a fair investigation into May 14 police action and exemplary punishment of those responsible. Police foil long march of JnU students near Jamuna The tensions worsened further on Wednesday night when Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam attempted to address students in Kakrail. While addressing, a bottle was thrown from the crowd.

Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s participation in the remainder of the IPL 2025 season with Delhi Capitals is in doubt due to issues related to his NOC from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Although Delhi Capitals announced Mustafizur as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk, the BCB has confirmed that neither the player nor the IPL authorities have formally requested an NOC. Mustafiz is currently with the Bangladesh national team in the UAE for a two-match T20I series against the hosts on May 17 and 19. Following this, Bangladesh is scheduled to tour Pakistan for a five-match T20I series starting May 27, though the series is yet to be cleared officially by the Bangladesh authorities due to tensions between Pakistan and India. These commitments overlap with Delhi Capitals’ remaining league matches on May 18, 21, and 24, casting doubts over Mustafizur’s IPL participation. Mustafizur makes IPL comeback with record-breaking Delhi Capitals deal BCB sources suggested that the BCB might grant Mustafizur an NOC for two of the three remaining IPL league matches, balancing national duties with franchise commitments. However, the final decision will depend on discussions between the BCB, the player, and the IPL authorities.

Internet prices at the ISP (Internet Service Provider) and IIG (International Internet Gateway) levels will be reduced by 20% from July this year, said Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb for Post, Telecommunications and Information Technology. Faiz Taiyeb came up with the announcement at a press conference held at the BTRC building in Agargaon on Thursday, marking the celebration of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. Internet becomes more affordable; Faiz Taiyeb outlines multi-level price reductions The internet prices at the ISP and IIG levels will be reduced by 20% from July 1, he said. The prices at the consumer level will also be reduced subsequently, he added. Taiyeb also urged the mobile operators to align with this initiative. “Our goal is to provide quality internet services at affordable prices to citizens." Shish Haider Chowdhury, secretary to the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Md Zahurul Islam, Acting Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division and Major General (retd) Md Emdad-Ul-Bari, Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication and Regulatory Commission (BTRC) were also present at the press conference. Bangladesh Submarine Cables reduces internet prices by 10%

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has received government approval to proceed with the national team’s five-match T20I series in Pakistan, scheduled to commence later this month. Farque Ahmed, the president of the board, confirmed the development to the media.  This decision follows a period of uncertainty due to recent tensions between India and Pakistan, which had previously led to the postponement of both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). According to BCB president, while the government has given the green light, the board is still awaiting the official letter to finalize the tour. Mustafizur’s INR 6 crore IPL deal not full payout, here's why He said the importance of ensuring the safety and comfort of players and coaching staff before making a definitive decision. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has proposed a revised itinerary, with the series set to begin on May 27 in Faisalabad and conclude on June 5 in Lahore. The adjustments were made to accommodate the resumption of the PSL, which is slated to restart on May 17. Despite the government’s approval, some Bangladeshi players have expressed reservations about traveling to Pakistan, citing security concerns. The BCB has said that it will not compel any player to participate and will engage in discussions with the squad to address their apprehensions. Shakib set to return with Lahore Qalandars in PSL

The National Pension Authority (NPA) on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 12 banks to facilitate registration and contribution collection under the Universal Pension Schemes. This brings the total number of banks partnering with the NPA to 24, as 12 banks had previously signed similar agreements.  NBR lifts suspension of Tax Tribunal member Shafiqul, cites no reason Executive Chairman of the National Pension Authority Md. Mahiyuddin Khan was present at the meeting. Finance Secretary Dr. Md. Khairuzzaman Mozumder attended the event as the chief guest. The 12 banks are-AB Bank, Al-Arafah Islami Bank, Islami Bank, IFIC Bank, Midland Bank, Modhumoti Bank,National Bank, NCC Bank, ONE Bank, Premier Bank, Southeast Bank and Trust Bank. The NPA has announced plans to gradually sign MoUs with all domestically-owned banks to ensure widespread access and seamless contribution collection for all citizens under the Universal Pension Schemes. Pensioner Sanchayapatra in Bangladesh: Revised profit rates in 2025

Mohammad Hatem has been elected  President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) for the term 2025-27.  Fazle Shamim Ehsan has been elected the Executive Vice President. The election for the office bearers of the BKMEA Board of Directors for the 2025-27 tenure was held on Thursday at BKMEA's head office in Narayanganj. According to the pre-announced schedule by the Election Board, candidates collected and submitted their nomination papers. Mohammad Hatem-led panel wins all director posts of BKMEA election  Nine nomination papers were submitted for the nine office bearer positions including President, Executive President, Senior Vice President, Vice President (Finance), and five Vice Presidents. The Election Board scrutinised the nominations and published the final list. All candidates were elected unopposed. The five elected Vice Presidents are Md. Samsuzzaman, Gowher Siraj Jamil (Chattogram), Ashiqur Rahman, Fakir Kamruzzaman Nahid, and Mohammad Rashed. Vote to BKMEA Directors held in peaceful atmosphere after 12 years

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has imposed a ban on rallies, processions, demonstrations and gatherings in front of Chief Justice’s residence, Judges Complex, main gate of Bangladesh Supreme court, Jam-e-Mosque gate, main gates of International Crimes Tribunal 1 and 2 and Bangladesh Institute of Judicial Administration (BIJA). The ban has been imposed in the wake of current situation and to maintain law and order. The restriction effective from Thursday will remain in place until further notice, according to a public notification issued by DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali. DMP urges people to refrain from blocking roads in the name of protests The ban has been enforced under Section 29 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance (Ordinance No. III/76) to maintain discipline in light of the prevailing situation, it said. It also requested all again to refrain from blocking roads in the name of protest as such activities cause severe traffic congestion in the capital.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Thursday suspected that Dhaka University Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) leader Shahriar Alam Shammo was killed for political reasons, as he raised his voice in favour of the national flag and anthem. “Shammo held a position in the AF Rahman Hall unit of Chhatra Dal. What was the reason, and what wrong did Shammo commit to deserve such a fate? The police have arrested three vagabonds. We believe there is a political motive behind this murder,” he said at a human chain programme. The BNP leader questioned, if there was no political motive, why would a well-groomed, gentle young man like Shammo be subjected to murder. “Why would vagabonds kill him? Who were Shammo’s political enemies? We are getting a few clues. So, identify these political enemies and bring them to justice immediately. Otherwise, the consequences will be dire,” he warned, pointing at the government. The Northern Region Students’ Forum organised the human chain in front of the Jatiya Press Club, demanding justice for the murder of Shahriar Alam Shammo, who hailed from Sirajganj district. Shammo, a student of Dhaka University’s Institute of Education and Research (IER) and the Literature and Publication Secretary of the Sir AF Rahman Hall unit of JCD, was stabbed to death near Suhrawardy Udyan around midnight on Tuesday. JCD stages protest at DU demanding VC’s resignation Just days ago, Rizvi said Shammo posted on Facebook in defence of the national anthem during a protest in Shahbagh demanding its ban. “Could this be why he was targeted?” he asked. “He posted in favour of the national anthem. He delivered a message against those protesting the anthem. Was this the reason for his killing?” he said. The BNP leader drew parallels with the political killing of Abrar Fahad in 2019. “Just as Abrar was murdered for speaking against the neighbouring country’s aggression and water aggression, now Shammo has been killed for speaking in favour of the national anthem, the flag, or our independence. That’s why I said, there must be a political reason behind it.” He urged the police to thoroughly investigate the murder of the JCD leader, expressing doubt over the arrest of the three vagabonds. “Why are there still bodies lying on the campus? Why is there still blood on the campus? Why is there still bloodshed inside the university grounds? The associates of the Awami League are no longer in power,” he observed. Rizvi also criticised the Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor for allegedly mistreating JCD leaders who had approached him seeking justice for Shammo’s murder. “You became irritated, angry, and even addressed them disrespectfully. Why? Just because Shammo was from Chhatra Dal?” he questioned. “We know your political ideology. You and your proctor follow a specific belief and do not favour those who represent nationalist views on campus. If university authorities act like gang leaders trying to impose their ideology, then it is no longer a university,” he said. DU students hold torch procession to protest Shammo's death The BNP leader noted that a Vice-Chancellor may have personal beliefs, but when he becomes an administrator, he must act impartially. “If you try to enforce your ideology instead of ensuring peace, the campus will never be peaceful.” He also urged the interim government to run the country wisely and inclusively. “Look in all directions. If you try to impose one ideology or promote one party, the people will eventually not spare you.”

A total of 311 people have been arrested during countrywide drives conducted by the River Police over the past seven days, aimed at protecting the country’s fish resources and ensuring safety on waterways. According to the River Police headquarters, 29,806,610 meters of illegal fishing nets, 5,237 kilograms of fish, and 17,000 shrimp fry were seized.  Ex-mayor Taposh’s close associate arrested in Dhaka Legal actions were also taken against 71 bulkheads for not having valid documents and three dredgers were also seized. A total of 88 cases were filed during the operations, including 68 related to fisheries, one drug case, seven, seven unnatural death cases, one murder case, two cases related to sand extraction, one under the Special Powers Act, and one involving women and children. Eight bodies were recovered during the period. The seized illegal fishing nets were destroyed and  the recovered fish were distributed to orphanages, and the shrimp fry were released back into the water, said the River Police.  Teenage nephew arrested over brutal murder of two sisters in Shewrapara

The National Shop Employees Federation on Thursday warned that over 60 lakh shop employees across the country will enforce a nationwide closure of shops and shopping malls ahead of Eid-ul-Azha if they are not paid Eid bonus. The ultimatum came at a press conference organised by the federation at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital. Speaking at the event, its General Secretary Md Rafiqul Islam said there are over 60 lakh employees working in 10 sectors including shops, shopping malls, chain stores, departmental stores, retail outlets, wholesale markets, electronics shops, salons, beauty parlours, and pharmacies. These workers provide continuous services to the public but these people who sacrifice their comfort and leisure are being denied not just their basic needs, but also their lawful rights, he said. “According to labour laws, all workers and employees are entitled to two Eid bonuses annually, each equal to one month’s basic salary. But this provision is not being implemented for the country’s shop workers,” he added. The speakers said most workers do not receive appointment letters despite legal requirements and workers often have to work 10–14 hours a day, yet they are not paid any overtime allowance beyond the legal 8 hours. Among others, central federation leaders Hazrat Ali Molla, Abu Bakkar Siddique, Abdus Salam, Paresh Majumder, Fazlul Haque, Babul Bepari, Didar Hossain, Khalilur Rahman, Suraiya Jesmin Ruma, Aleya Begum, Md Zahid Hossain, and Tanzina Akter were present at the press conference.  

Three people including two members of a family died from electrocution in Shaghata upazila in Gaibandha district on Thursday. The deceased were identified as Abdal Hossain, Milon Mia and Mosharraf Hossain. Quoting witnesses, Badsha Alam, officer-in-charge of Shaghata Police Station, said Milon Mia of Kamaler Para village came in contact with a live electric wire, which,went over the tin-shed roof of his house while he was engaged in removing dry leaves from the roof in the afternoon. Youth dies from electrocution in Sylhet Hearing screams of Milon, his uncle Abdal tried to save him, but he too got electrocuted. Another person Mosharraf also tried to save them but unfortunately, he also got electrocuted. On information, police recovered the bodies, said Md Al Kama tomal, Shaghata Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO).  

The Council of Advisers on Thursday approved the draft of the National Freedom Fighters Council (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025 at its regular meeting. The approval, subject to vetting by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division, was given during the 28th meeting of the Council of Advisers, held at the Chief Adviser's Office with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in the chair. Meanwhile, the final approval of the draft ‘Welfare and Rehabilitation of Families of Martyrs and Injured Students in the July Uprising Ordinance, 2025’ was also given in principle. The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs initiated the move. As per the decision, a committee has been formed comprising Advisers from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works; Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources; Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives; Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock to review the draft ‘Welfare and Rehabilitation of Families of Martyrs and Injured Students in the July Uprising Ordinance, 2025’. Prof Yunus sees ‘window of opportunity’ for changes in health sector The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs will provide secretarial support to the committee. The Council of Advisers also approved the draft Dredging and Dredged Material Management Policy 2024, aiming to ensure well-coordinated and planned dredging operations and optimal use of dredged materials. It also recommended updating the Balumahal and Soil Management Rules, 2011, aiming to conduct new hydrographic surveys before leasing sand quarries based on outdated surveys, prohibiting sand extraction after sunset and utilizing illegally extracted sand in public construction projects instead of auctioning it. The Ministry of Land will take necessary steps in this regard. Besides, the Council of Advisers reviewed the report submitted by the advisory committee regarding the formulation of the National Gene Bank Management Policy-2024. The report found that infrastructure related to the National Gene Bank in Savar was built without properly assessing the actual need, resulting in increased government expenditure. To ensure optimal use of the gene bank infrastructure, a committee has been formed under the leadership of the Adviser to the Ministry of Planning. Advisers from the Ministries of Agriculture, Education, Health and Family Welfare, and Environment, Forest and Climate Change will be included in the committee. The Ministry of Science and Technology will provide secretarial support. It also approved the draft National Urban Policy 2025. The draft will be revised by a committee led by the Member of the Physical Infrastructure Division of the Planning Commission. The Council of Advisors also approved the draft Locally Led Adaptation Framework (LLAF), prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The framework aims to ensure integration of local priorities and capacities in planning and implementing climate change adaptation initiatives across the country. Prof Yunus issues five directives for quick capital market reforms

‘Sammilito Parishad’, a panel in the upcoming election of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Expprters Association (BGMEA)  has pledged that they will work to build it as a professional business organisation refraining from past political motives. Speaking at a meet the press event at a local hotel on Thursday former president of BGMEA Faruque Hasan urged the association's members to vote the panel's candidates. He described  the candidates of ‘Sammilito Parishad’ as capable to lead the organisation in the global arena amid the tariff war in a very unstable global market situation. Sammilito Parishad announces final list of candidates for May 31 BGMEA election “Bangladesh is the number one cotton consumption country despite a very few quantity of cotton is produced in the domestic market.  So we have to think about a smooth cotton supply chain for sustainable production in the changing global situation,” he added. He also said that the number of BGMEA memberships saw changes in last 10 years due to closing of some factories. Denying the allegation of fake voters in the BGMEA voter list in the past he said, despite political identities  of some board members of BGMEA, they all worked for the development of the clothing sector business. He said that the BGMEA has to work with both political and non-political governments, but there is no scope for involving politics in the organisation. Panel leader Md. Abul Kalam of Chaity Group, senior entrepreneur Moniruzzaman and other senior leaders of ‘Sammilito Parishad’ spoke at the event. Former BGMEA president Khandoker Rafiqul Islam, former board member of BGMEA Abdullahil Rakib, Asif Ashraf, Moshiur Azam Shajal, among others, are contesting in the BGMEA Election for 2025-27. The BGMEA election is set for May 31.      

The Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) has urged the government to crack down on the syndicates responsible for unfair increase in air fares. In an online discussion held on Wednesday the ATAB leaders called upon the government to intervene decisively to rein in soaring airfares. They described it as artificially created seat shortages orchestrated by these syndicates. The discussion meeting was chaired by ATAB President Abdus Salam Aref.  SCB to partner with Biman in the airline's first Regional Treasury Centre ATAB Secretary General Afsia Jannat Saleh moderated the event. The discussants raised concerns about the detrimental impact of these alleged syndicates on passengers. ATAB representatives claimed that these "unscrupulous groups" are manipulating ticket prices, leading to significant hardship for travelers. Furthermore, ATAB alleged that these same groups are actively engaged in spreading false and misleading information targeting the legitimately elected ATAB committee through various online and traditional media channels, with some instances involving direct threats. They asserted that the "ticket syndicate is a dishonest cartel" involved in black marketing and hoarding to create artificial crises for excessive profit. They urged the immediate revocation of their licenses and demanded stringent legal action against those involved. ATAB leaders suggested that a recent government circular aimed at curbing such syndication has disrupted the monopoly of these groups, leading to their current efforts to regain control through conspiratorial campaigns against ATAB's current leadership. Key figures including ATAB Vice President Mohammad Ziaur Rahman Khan Rezwan, former Executive Vice President and current Executive Committee member Alhaj H.M. Mujibul Haque Shakur, former Secretary General Jinnur Ahmed Chowdhury Dipu, and Deputy Secretary Dewan Rushu Chowdhury voiced their concerns and called for unified resistance against these syndicate groups. They urged the authorities to take swift action to ensure transparency and equal opportunity within the travel trade sector. Established in 1976 and recognised by the government and the Ministry of Commerce, ATAB represents nearly 4,000 licensed travel agencies in Bangladesh. The organisation plays a crucial role in shaping aviation and tourism policies in collaboration with the government.  Chinese airlines to launch Ctg-Kunming flights for Bangladeshi medical travel

European Union regulators accused TikTok on Thursday of breaching digital safety rules because of shortcomings in the video sharing app's online ad database.  Mexican beauty influencer fatally shot during TikTok livestream TikTok's ad repository isn't up to the standards required by the bloc's Digital Services Act, known as the DSA, the 27-nation EU’s executive Commission said in preliminary findings from its investigation. The Commission said ad databases are vital for researchers to detect scam ads as well as so-called hybrid threat campaigns, coordinated information operations and fake ads, "including in the context of elections." The DSA is a wide-ranging rulebook that aims to clean up social media platforms and protect users from risks including election-related disinformation. Provisions include requiring platforms to be transparent about digital ads, including informing users why they’re being shown a specific advertisement and who paid for it. The Commission said TikTok doesn’t provide necessary information about the content of ads, the users targeted, and who pays for them. The database doesn’t allow for a comprehensive search for ads based on this information, “thereby limiting the usefulness of the tool,” it said. TikTok did not respond immediately to a request for comment. The shortcomings in TikTok's ad database prevent a “full inspection” of the risks posed by its ad targeting systems, said Henna Virkkunen, the commission's executive vice-president for tech sovereignty, security and democracy. “Transparency in online advertising — who pays and how audiences are targeted — is essential to safeguarding the public interest," Virkkunen said. “Whether we are defending the integrity of our democratic elections, protecting public health, or protecting consumers from scam ads, citizens have a right to know who is behind the messages they see.” TikTok now has a chance to reply before the Commission issues its final decision, which could result in a fine of up to 6% of the company’s annual global revenue. TikTok is being scrutinized in a separate EU investigation into whether it failed to deal with risks to Romania’s presidential election, which was thrown into turmoil last year over allegations of electoral violations and Russian meddling.  TikTok fined $600 million for China data transfers that broke EU privacy rules

Residents of Gaza City are grappling with an increasingly desperate humanitarian situation, with no access to safe drinking water, food, or basic necessities, according to a UK-based aid official. Mai Elawawda, a communications officer for the UK-based charity Medical Aid for Palestinians, described dire conditions in a message from southern Gaza, saying, “The future is utterly bleak.” She added, “After more than 19 months of forced starvation, dehydration, and displacement, we do not know how much longer we can hold on.” According to Elawawda, there is “extremely limited” access to safe drinking water, and food is no longer available in markets. What little remains is priced far beyond what most people can afford. Infant formula has become almost impossible to find, and in the rare cases it is available, it costs over $25 (£18). Nappies, she noted, are being sold for more than $30 (£22), “well beyond the reach of displaced families who cannot even secure their daily meals.” During a visit to Gaza City last week, she said, “you would not find a single loaf of bread for sale.” Source: BBC

Tzeela Gez was on her way to the hospital to bring new life into this world when hers was suddenly cut short. As her husband drove their car through the winding roads of the occupied West Bank late Wednesday, a Palestinian attacker shot at them. Within hours, Gez, nine months pregnant, was dead. Doctors barely saved the life of the baby, who is in serious but stable condition. Israel says it is trying to prevent such attacks by waging a monthslong crackdown on West Bank militants that intensified earlier this year. But the escalating offensive, which has killed hundreds of Palestinians over 19 months, displaced tens of thousands and caused widespread destruction, has ultimately not snuffed out attacks. And the latest bloodshed is only likely to fuel a cycle of violence that has persisted for decades between Israelis and Palestinians. Israel has pledged to find the attacker, who fled the scene, and the military chief of staff, who visited the area Thursday, told troops that the broader operation would continue alongside the manhunt. "We will use all the tools at our disposal and reach the murderers in order to hold them accountable,” Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said, according to a statement from the military, which said it had sealed Palestinian villages in the area of the attack and set up checkpoints. The shooting, especially because the victim was a pregnant mother with three other children, has the potential to ignite vigilante violence against Palestinians by radical Jewish settlers. They regularly storm Palestinian towns and villages, burning and damaging property, in response to such attacks. Marauding settlers are rarely held to account for their actions and Palestinians are left to pick up the pieces of the destruction with little recourse to compensation or assistance from Israeli authorities.  54 killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes on Southern Gaza’s Khan Younis ‘A mother in her essence’ Gez, 37, and her husband Hananel, were residents of Bruchin, a settlement of some 2,900 in the northern West Bank. She worked as a therapist and on her Facebook page, shared developments in her professional life as well as her thoughts on the war in Gaza, the fallen Israeli soldiers and the hostages still held by Hamas. Meital Ben Yosef, head of the settlement's local council, told Israeli Army radio that Gez was “all mother. A mother in her essence.” “A couple of parents were driving to the happiest moment that a parent can experience and the wife is killed on the way. It’s a horrific incident,” she said. Photos of the car released by the military showed a bullet hole on the passenger side of the windshield and a streak of blood on a back door. Soldiers searched the rugged brush on the sides of the road following the attack, according to video released by the Israeli military. Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas’ armed wing, praised the attack as “heroic” in a video statement Wednesday but stopped short of saying the militant group was behind it. On Thursday, military checkpoints slowed down traffic on roads in the vicinity of the attack, and many Palestinian motorists were at a standstill as they tried to make their journeys, according to video shared on social media. Concern about reprisal attacks The attack sparked outrage and calls for revenge. “Just as we are flattening Rafah, Khan Younis and Gaza, we must flatten the nests of terror in Judea and Samaria,” wrote the Israeli finance minister and a settler firebrand, Bezalel Smotrich, in a post on X, referring to the West Bank by its biblical name.  Israeli airstrikes in Gaza kill 60, including 22 children The violence in the West Bank escalated when the war in Gaza erupted with Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel. Israel has staged frequent raids in the territory, especially but not limited to its north, using ground and air power in violence that has killed many militants but also other Palestinians, some of them throwing rocks to protest the incursions as well as others not involved in confrontations. Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war, along with Gaza and east Jerusalem, all territories the Palestinians seek for a future independent state. Around 500,000 Jewish settlers now live in about 130 settlements scattered across the West Bank. Much of the international community views settlements as illegal and an obstacle to Palestinian statehood. Israel views the West Bank as its biblical heartland and believes the fate of the settlements should be determined in peace negotiations, which have been moribund for some 15 years. Israel says much of the Palestinian militancy in the West Bank is fueled by Iran and views the fighting there as part of its ongoing multifront wars to secure its borders and prevent a second Oct. 7-style attack. UN humanitarian chief blasts Israel for 'deliberately' blocking aid to Gaza

A nor'wester coupled with hailstorms swept several villages of Kaliganj upazila in Lalmonirhat district on Wednesday night, damaging houses, trees and crops.The storm which began around 10:30 pm lasted for about one hour left a trail of destruction in four unions of the upazila.A number of educational institutions were also damaged while hundreds of trees were uprooted during the storm, disrupting road communication on Kakina-Chaparhat regional road.Crops including mangoes, litchis, maize, paddy, nuts and jute suffered damages.Besides, a number of electric poles were also uprooted, snapping power connections in four unions of the upazila. Crops on 12,000ha damaged as norwester lashes SirajganjShimul Mia, a resident of Tushbhandar area, said the storm began with light winds around 10:30 pm and then intensified suddenly. "Within moments, roofs of houses were blown away and trees were uprooted," he said.The worst-hit areas include several villages in Tushbhandar, Votmari, Kakina and Madati unions.Saiful Islam, a farmer from Baninagar village in Tushbhandar union, said, “It started with a gentle breeze, but soon a powerful storm tore through. My entire home has been destroyed. Without government aid, I have no way to rebuild.”Kaliganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Zakia Sultana visited the affected areas and said numerous homes and crops were damaged in Tushbhandar, Madati, Kakina and Votmari unions.She added that a list of affected people is being prepared through local representatives and financial and humanitarian assistance will be provided accordingly by the upazila administration.  

The Sanda Lizard has been trending recently with a slew of memes on social media talking about eating sanda. But what’s the story behind the lizard? Also known as Hardwicke’s spiny-tailed lizard (Saara hardwickii), it is a master of survival in one of Earth’s harshest landscapes. Known for its herbivorous diet and burrowing habits, this reptile is not just a desert dweller but a cultural and ecological cornerstone. A Desert Survivor: Habitat and Distribution The Sanda Lizard thrives in the arid regions of South Asia, specifically the Thar Desert and Kutch in India, and parts of Pakistan, including Sindh’s Kohistan region near Karachi. Unlike its cousin, the Arabian spiny-tailed lizard (Uromastyx aegyptia), common in Saudi Arabia, the Sanda Lizard prefers firm ground over sandy dunes. In Kutch, it inhabits elevated patches called "Bets," which stay above monsoon water levels (Roundglass Sustain). These colonial lizards live in loose clusters, digging zig-zagging burrows up to 2 meters long for shelter and hibernation, making them a vital part of the desert ecosystem. Who Eats the Sanda Lizard? In India and Pakistan, local communities hunt the Sanda Lizard for its meat and fat. The meat, described as white and chicken-like, is a delicacy in some regions, particularly among certain Hindu castes in India . The tail is especially prized. However, the fat is the real treasure, boiled into "sanda oil" and used as an embrocation or a supposed aphrodisiac, believed to treat ailments like joint pain and impotence . In Pakistan, vendors in Rawalpindi’s Raja Bazaar sell this oil, marketing it as a stamina booster. In the wild, the Sanda Lizard is a key prey species for raptors like the Laggar Falcon and Tawny Eagle, which feed on it, reinforcing its ecological importance. Desert foxes and snakes also target it, drawn to its colonial burrows.

A youth died from electrocution at  Kumargaon in Sylhet city early Thursday. The deceased is Md. Jamil Ahmed,20, son of Garib Ullah of East Kalaruka area.  First Hajj flight from Sylhet leaves for Madinah He used to work as a security guard at Lutfunnesa Hall,  a women’s hotel in Kumargaon area. SI Mushfiqur Rahman, in-charge of Shiber Bazar police outpost, said that Jamil, who got electrocuted in the hall room, was rescued at noon and taken to Mount Edora Hospital, where the doctor declared him dead. The body has been kept at the Osmani Medical College Hospital morgue for autopsy.  Crucial Sylhet road and bridge collapse into Kushiyara amid relentless erosion

NOVOAIR is set to resume its domestic flight operations from May 21, after a 19-day suspension. Passengers will be offered a 15% discount on ticket fares, using the promo code VQWEBAPP when booking through the NOVOAIR website or mobile app, said a press release issued on Thursday. Mofizur Rahman, Managing Director of NOVOAIR, said that, “I am very happy to announce that we are starting flight operations from next Wednesday. Our flight operations were temporarily suspended as part of our business plan. During the temporary break, we received unprecedented support and encouragement from our esteemed passengers and well-wishers.” “We are always committed to delivering superior passenger service, with safety as our highest priority. We are excited to welcome everyone back on board,” he added. Tickets are available now through the NOVOAIR website, mobile app, sales Passengers can enjoy a 15% discount by using the promo code VQWEBAPP when booking through the NOVOAIR website or mobile app. Tickets are available now through the NOVOAIR website, mobile app, sales offices, and travel agents. NOVOAIR suspended its operation temporarily on May 2.    

French actor Théo Navarro-Mussy has been barred from walking the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival due to accusations of rape and sexual assault—a first in the festival’s history. Navarro-Mussy stars in Dossier 137, directed by Dominik Moll, which premieres in competition on Thursday. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor has been accused of “rape, physical and psychological violence” by three former partners. A court dismissed the initial complaint last month, but the alleged victims have announced plans to pursue a civil case against him. Festival general delegate Thierry Frémaux said that he took the “unprecedented” step to exclude Navarro-Mussy from Thursday’s gala screening, in agreement with the film’s producers. Tom Cruise gets emotional as 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning' earns 5-minute ovation at Cannes Speaking to French outlet Télérama, Frémaux defended the decision, saying, “The case remains ongoing,” and added that the ban would be lifted if the case was dismissed or if Navarro-Mussy is found not guilty. The ban follows a separate development in France’s film industry this week, where veteran actor Gérard Depardieu received an 18-month suspended sentence after being found guilty of sexual assault—marking one of the country’s most prominent #MeToo cases to date.

Twenty-seven members of erstwhile Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) were released from Kashimpur jail in Gazipur on bail in connection with a case filed under the Explosive Substances Act over the Pilkhana carnage.The jail authorities said all the 27 accused were released from the jail around 10 am.Their relatives received them at the jail gate.Earlier on Monday, Additional Metropolitan Judge Ibrahim Mia granted bail to the former BDR members. BDR massacre: Dr Yunus says mystery must be uncoveredBesides, 178 more former BDR members were also granted bail in the case. Mohammad AL Mamun, jail superintendent of Kashimpur Central Jail part-1, said the bail order of the accused was reached at the jail gate on Tuesday afternoon.On February 25 and 26, 2009, 74 people, including 57 army officers, were killed in a mutiny at the Border Guard Headquarters in Pilkhana.On 5 November 2013, a Dhaka court awarded death sentences to 150 BDR members and two civilians, and life imprisonment to 160 others in a murder case.On 27 November 2017, the High Court confirmed the death penalty for 139 out of 152 accused.

Bangladesh and Japan on Thursday outlined the future area of cooperation between the two countries and Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’ upcoming visit to Japan as both sides eye to take the relationship to a new height. Under the new plan for Free and Open Indo Pacific and Big-B initiatives, Japan wants to see the sustainable development of the region. Japan said it would strengthen its engagement with Bangladesh under the Bay of Bengal Initiative (Big-B), as the country aims to support high-quality infrastructure development projects and encourage Japanese manufacturing and production companies to expand their industrial value chains to Bangladesh. Under the new plan for Free and Open Indo Pacific and Big-B initiatives, Japan wants to see the sustainable development of the region, according to Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo. The issues were discussed at the 6th Japan-Bangladesh Foreign Secretary-level consultations - Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in Tokyo. In February this year, Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Ikuina Akiko invited Chief Adviser Prof Yunus to visit Japan for the Nikkei 30th Future of Asia event to be held on May 29-30 in Tokyo. Prof Yunus is also a recipient of the Nikkei Asia Prize in 2004. The Chief Adviser will attend the Nikkei 30th Future of Asia event and both sides are working to arrange a bilateral meeting between Dr Yunus and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a diplomatic source told UNB. Secretary (East) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Md Nazrul Islam and Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Akahori Takeshi led the delegations with other participants from the both sides. Bangladesh to attend commonwealth talks in Geneva The meeting touched upon political, economic and sectoral cooperation issues along with trade and investment, people-to-people connectivity and cultural exchanges, Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (Rohingyas), security cooperation, and regional and global issues. The two sides confirmed that they will further strengthen the bilateral relationship in a wide range of areas, including security, economy, economic cooperation, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, under the "Japan-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership" at the FOC, said the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two countries exchanged views on international issues and regional situations. During the meeting, both sides also discussed on human resource cooperation, joint crediting mechanism in energy transition, climate change, disaster and earthquake management and cooperation in Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP), Treatment Storage and Disposal Facility (TSDF) and solar power plants along with mechanisation of agriculture and modernisation of shipyards. The Japanese side reiterated its firm support to the interim government and its reform initiatives and said that it would continue its support for the socio-economic development of Bangladesh.  Both sides agreed to deepen political trust, prioritize development strategies and fully realize ‘Strategic Partnership’. Japan took positive note on Bangladesh’s request to continue Duty-Free Quota-Free (DFQF) access for Bangladeshi products during the post- LDC graduation period and would work for the market access of Bangladeshi products including fruits and vegetables.  Foreign Adviser stresses civilian, peacekeeper protection at UN Berlin summit Bangladesh also sought Japan’s support for more ODA concessional loan, extension of loan repayment period and for budgetary support. Appreciating Bangladesh’s role in giving shelter to the Rohingyas, the Japanese side said Japan would continue their efforts for the early repatriation of the Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (The Rohingyas) to their motherland in Myanmar and would continue its humanitarian assistance to the Rohingyas.  Both sides also discussed key regional and global developments and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation on various multilateral issues of mutual interests. Both sides had “very productive, fruitful and wide-ranging” discussion. Both sides reviewed the progress made since the 5th round of Consultations held in June 2024 in Dhaka and The Foreign Office Consultations ended with a vision to fully use and integrate the resources, strategic locations and competencies to ensure development of the peoples of both countries. The Secretary (East) thanked the Japanese Senior Vice-Minister for extending warm welcome and gracious hospitality.