INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12670, 12670, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will pay a full-fledged bilateral visit to New Delhi, India separately at a mutually convenient time which is likely to see signing of a number of agreements and MoUs and some important announcements.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We’re working on a separate visit. The current one is more of a ceremonial visit, marking a special occasion. We’ll work on a schedule later,” Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen said while talking to a small group of reporters on the sidelines of a function on Thursday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to leave for New Delhi on Saturday to attend her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi’s swearing-in at his invitation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Initially, the ceremony was scheduled to take place on June 8 and now it will be held on June 9.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The main inauguration will be held on June 9 evening and our Prime Minister is likely to reach New Delhi on Saturday afternoon. She will join the main inauguration,” said the Foreign Secretary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">World leaders including Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal are set to attend the function, which will record a presence of over 8,000 dignitaries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question, the Foreign Secretary said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is likely to have tete-a-tete with the leaders including Narendra Modi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said during the bilateral visit which will take place separately later the two countries are scheduled to sign a number of MoUs and agreements. “There is an issue of making announcement on some areas of cooperation. We’ll work on that.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Masud said there is a new government in Bangladesh and a new government will be formed in India. “There will be continuity of the relations and we expect to see some new initiatives in our relations.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, PM\'s speechwriter, M Nazrul Islam, confirmed UNB her joining in the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Sunday (June 9). She will return home on June 10, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi will take oath as the prime minister of India for the historic third term in a row on June 9 after his BJP-led NDA alliance won 293 seats in the elections for 543-member Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, Modi invited Hasina to attend the swearing-in ceremony of his government, and she accepted the invitation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi has thanked PM Hasina for her warm wishes following his election victory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina was among the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi, reflecting the warmth and personal rapport between the two leaders.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"India and Bangladesh share historic relations, which have seen unprecedented growth in the last decade,\" Modi said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a message shared through X, Modi said he looks forward to working together to further strengthen the people-centric partnership between Bangladesh and India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina congratulated Narendra Modi on the resounding victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Lok Sabha election.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As the leader of the largest democracy in the world, you carry the hopes and aspirations of the people of India,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi received a congratulatory telephone call from Sheikh Hasina for the victory of NDA, according to the Press Information Bureau of India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two leaders pledged to continue working together to further deepen the historic and close ties under the renewed mandate towards achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 and Smart Bangladesh 2041.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They acknowledged the significant improvements achieved in the lives of the people of both countries in the last decade and looked forward to further enhancing the transformative relationship across all domains that include economic and development partnership, energy security, connectivity including digital linkages and people-to-people contacts among others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Narendra Modi called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday and tendered his resignation along with the Union council of ministers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-07 10:47:54', '2024-06-07 10:47:54'),
(12671, 12671, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Ambassador Antonio Alessandro has said visa applications accompanied by fake documents and illegal practice of paying hefty amount of money to middlemen are among the reasons that create problem in making smooth migration from Bangladesh to Italy.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are determined and committed. The Embassy and our authorities back in Rome, we are committed to make the migration from Bangladesh to Italy increasingly safer and orderly,” he said in an interview with three media outlets including UNB at the embassy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador encouraged everyone to entrust only the reliable partners and migrants and workers should make sure that where they are going to work, which kind of job, under which conditions and in which city in Italy. “This is very important”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladeshi community living in Italy, the largest in the EU, is a strong pull factor in this regard. It contributes significantly to the well-being of Italy and is also an important source of remittances for Bangladesh with 1.2 billion euros transferred in 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Explaining reasons why visa process gets delayed, Ambassador Alessandro said their estimate is that one in five applications is accompanied by a problematic and irregular document.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There is a practice of paying middlemen very high amount of money to organize the transfer to Italy. This is an illegal practice, actually both in Italy and in Bangladesh,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to question from UNB, the ambassador said in many cases migrants paid this money and they do not even know where the money is going and what kind of work they are going to do and for which company they are going to be employed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“So this practice must stop. And this is the main reason for our slow process. And this is the main reasons why our migration from Bangladesh to Italy is having problem,” said the Italian envoy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said work visa is one category and there are other categories of visas - there are tourist visa, business visa, study visa, family visas and all these categories are growing in large numbers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The community of Bangladesh in Italy becomes larger and becomes more integrated and so attracts a number of people for family reunion, business tourism or family visits, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“All this is putting significant pressure on our embassy, and that explains the delay, because work visa is important, but also these other categories are also important, and our visa office has to work for all categories. So, I recognize that there are delays, and of course, we apologize to the public for this delay,” said the envoy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He, however, said applicants should be careful when they entrust their money to someone to organise their migration and they should only refer to official agencies and should refuse to pay this large amount of money to middlemen and brokers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our official agency for visa processing is VFS Global. They are the only one authorised to collect documents for visa applications and there has been a lot of talking, for example, about the difficulty of getting an appointment that is not VFS’s fault, Alessandro said, adding that they have put a ceiling on the number of applications that they can accept every day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Otherwise we cannot process it. And that\'s why it\'s difficult to get an appointment because there is a ceiling. And of course, many people cannot enter into this within this ceiling,” he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under normal circumstances, the Italian visa system works with the passport and the applicant leaves the passport through the VFS Global. Then VFS Global brings this application and the passport to the Embassy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Now we are not keeping the passport anymore. This is a waiver that our headquarters has authorised for Bangladesh. So, applicants for working visa now only leave photocopy of the passport. They keep the passport with them so that they can travel and use the passport for other purposes. We are considering now what to do with the passports that we have at the embassy at the moment,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador said the embassy is determined to clean the backlog and give an answer to all applicants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I also want to say that the entry to Italy imply for a working migrant, implies four steps. One is the sponsorship by a company. Second, one is the working permit, visa by the embassy, and finally, the entry at the border and the immigration control at the border,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador Alessandro said people who have done the two steps with sponsorship and working permit they cannot be sure that they will go to Italy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“In fact, they, many of them are rejected because the sponsorship is fake, the working permit is counterfeited and for many other reasons. So until the completion of four steps they are not sure of being admitted to Italy,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador said Bangladesh community in Italy is increasingly well integrated. “I am happy to say and to recognise that cases of explorations are limited and that your community successfully integrated.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He stressed that the community of Bangladeshi people in Italy is a proper community because people, after a while, can bring along their families and they establish themselves permanently.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“All this makes this community successful. Many entrepreneurs and young generations were born in Italy. So it\'s a very successful community, and we should continue to promote this and make sure that the illegality stays away.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador said the network of criminals exists and they should counter them and avoid illegal flows of migrations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked about backlog of passports, he said it\'s difficult to give an answer on when they will be able to clean the entire backlog. “It\'s difficult because it depends on the problems that we find in each application.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There are at least 20,000 passports in the embassy but probably more because outside the embassy, there are many applicants waiting for an appointment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador said they have taken some measures and one is to acquire new space which will be a larger space, more functional for the visa office and the same for VFS Global. “VFS also moved to a new facility, new visa application center, much larger and more functional and comfortable for applicants.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Second measure is that they have recruited the two local staff recently and some additional staff from the headquarters will be added, Alessandro said, adding that “It will take some time, but we hope to receive more human resources in the days to come.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said they had a delegation from the headquarters recently to assess the situation and study options for helping the embassy in dealing with this backlog.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-07 10:57:42', '2024-06-07 10:57:42'),
(12672, 12672, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Md Nayeemul Islam Khan has been appointed as Prime Minister’s Press Secretary with the status of secretary on contractual basis.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Public Administration Ministry issued a gazette notification to this end on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The notification mentioned that Nayeemul Islam Khan will remain in office for the duration of the Prime Minister\'s term or subject to her satisfaction from the date of his joining.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-07 11:02:12', '2024-06-07 11:02:12'),
(12673, 12673, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader today recalled the consequences of the six-point demand and said those whohave no respect for this historic event, they never believe in the country\'s independence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The historic six-point demand is the turning point of the long struggle of the country\'s liberation war movement,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader, also Road Transport and Bridges Minister, made this remark to the journalists marking the historic six-point day after showing homage at the portrait of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in front of Bangabandhu Bhaban in the city this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On June 7 in 1966, the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman launched a massive movement against the misrule of the Pakistanis on the</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">basis of the six-point demand, the Magna Carta of the Bangalees, seeking autonomy for the then East Pakistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Terming this historic event as the milestone in the country\'s long struggle for independence, the senior ruling party leader said staging a movement for execution of the six-point charter along with the strike on June 7 that killed several labour leaders ultimately triggered 11-point agitation, led by the student forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The six-point charter came in the wake of the war that broke out between India and Pakistan in 1965 when the people of East Bengal remained totally unprotected as there was no importance to the central government of Pakistan for protecting this region, he noted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Highlighting the necessity of six-point demand, the AL general secretary said the mass upsurge in 1969 would not have taken place if it had not been for the six-point demand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader said the assassins of Bangabandhu didn\'t allow the observance of June 7 or March 7 after 1975. They, who were involved in the assassination of Bangabandhu and most of his family members on August 15 in 1975 and did not accept the country\'s independence, banned the historic days during their tenure, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"These evil forces not only had killed Bangabandhu but wanted to kill our spirit of the Liberation War and also the ideology of the independence as well and that\'s why \'Joy Bangla\' and also these remarkable days like June 7 and March 7 were exiled along with Bangabandhu,\" he explained.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League Presidium Members Abdur Razzaq, Dr. Mustafa Jalal Mohiuddin, Joint General Secretaries Mahbubul Alam Hanif and AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Organising Secretaries Mirza Azam, SM Kamal Hossain, Science and Technology Secretary Engineer Abdus Sabur and Office Secretary Barrister Biplob Barua, among others, were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-07 11:08:53', '2024-06-07 11:08:53'),
(12674, 12674, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will attend the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi as the prime minister of India for a third consecutive term today evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Top leaders from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal, Mauritius, and Seychelles are also expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Modi. </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event will witness a record presence of over 8,000 dignitaries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The leaders will also attend a banquet hosted by President Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the same evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Marking the oath-taking ceremony, the New Delhi has been put under a stringent multi-layered security measures aimed at ensuring safety in and out of the Rashtrapati Bhavan during the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, a special flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the Bangladesh premier and her entourage members landed at the Palam Air Force Station, the VVIP airport, here at 11:51 am (local time) yesterday after around one and a half hour fly.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister was received by Secretary (CPV and OIA) of Indian External Affairs Ministry Muktesh Pardeshi, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma, and Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Md. Mustafizur Rahman at the Palam airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in New Delhi, Sheikh Hasina will hold a tete-a-tete (one-to-one meeting) with Narendra Modi after joining the oath-taking ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhaban at 7.20pm today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, she will attend the state dinner hosted by the Indian president.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina joined a dinner hosted by the Bangladesh High Commissioner to India at Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi yesterday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to leave New Delhi for Dhaka at 5pm (New Delhi time) on Monday and to reach Dhaka at 8pm (BD time) the same day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on Wednesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited his Bangladesh counterpart to attend the swearing-in ceremony of his government during a conversation over telephone. Sheikh Hasina accepted the invitation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi will take oath on June 9 as the BJP-led NDA won 293 seats while the opposition INDIA bloc secured 234 seats in the 18th Lok Sabha elections.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh prime minister was among the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi, reflecting the warmth and personal rapport between the two leaders.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, Sheikh Hasina congratulated Narendra Modi on the resounding victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Lok Sabha election.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As the leader of the largest democracy in the world, you carry the hopes and aspirations of the people of India,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi received a congratulatory telephone call from Sheikh Hasina for the victory of BJP led NDA, according to the Press Information Bureau of India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi thanked Sheikh Hasina for her warm wishes following his election victory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"India and Bangladesh share historic relations, which have seen unprecedented growth in the last decade,\" Modi said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a message shared on X, Modi said he looks forward to working together to further strengthen the people-centric partnership between Bangladesh and India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two leaders pledged to continue working together to further deepen the historic and close ties under the renewed mandate towards achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 and Smart Bangladesh 2041.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-09 10:11:43', '2024-06-09 10:13:59'),
(12675, 12675, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>At least 2,000 students from Dhaka University staged a protest today (June 09, 2024) against the High Court’s decision to reinstate the quota system in government jobs.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The procession began at 11 am from the front gate of the Central Library and concluded at the Raju Sculpture on the Dhaka University campus. Marching through the campus, the protesters shouted slogans demanding the repeal of the quota system in government jobs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fahim, an English department student, expressed his frustration, saying, \"The decision to reintroduce the quota system in government jobs has destroyed the hopes and dreams of students who aspire to advance the country with their talent.\" He urged continuous protests until their demands are met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tamanna Akter, a student of French at the Institute of Modern Languages, called for a fair process that offers equal opportunity to all job seekers. \"Though I am a woman, I do not want a female quota because the quota system does not support meritocracy,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rifat Rashid, another student, highlighted constitutional guarantees of equal rights, arguing that the High Court\'s decision contradicts these principles. \"The students of this country will never agree to such a discriminatory decision,\" he said, calling for the reinstatement of the 2018 decision.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Another protester emphasized that the quota system contradicts the spirit of the Liberation War and would benefit the less deserving.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mahin Sarkar, the rally\'s anchor, issued an ultimatum, demanding that the decision be reversed by June 30, warning that the movement would spread from campuses to the streets if the demand is not met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the rally\'s conclusion, a student delegation submitted a memorandum to the Attorney General, urging the retraction of the High Court\'s decision and the reintroduction of the 2018 policy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Simultaneously, protests were held at Chittagong University (CU), Rajshahi University (RU), Jahangirnagar University (JU), and Jagannath University (JnU).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-09 10:38:29', '2024-06-09 10:38:29'),
(12676, 12676, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced Saturday that his country will suspend coal exports to Israel as a rebuke against its deadly war against Hamas in Gaza.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Colombia is Israel\'s main coal supplier with exports of some $450 million in 2023, according to the Israeli embassy in Bogota, which remains operational despite Petro\'s government severing diplomatic ties in May.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Petro, Colombia\'s first leftist president and a fierce critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said Saturday on X that coal exports to Israel would be suspended \"until the genocide stops.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A government decree specified that the restrictions would remain \"until the orders of provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ)... are fully complied with.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In late May, as part of a pending case brought by South Africa, the ICJ ordered Israel to halt its offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, while also demanding the release of hostages and the \"unhindered provision\" of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Colombian government, the coal export ban will enter into force five days after the decree is published in the official gazette and will not affect goods that have already been authorized for shipment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bogota underscored coal\'s role as \"a \"strategic resource for the manufacture of weapons, the mobilization of troops and the manufacture of provisions for military operations.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Petro also said Colombia would stop purchasing weapons made by Israel, one of the main suppliers of the South American country\'s security forces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday, the Colombian Mining Association expressed concern over the possibility of exports being suspended, noting a trade treaty between the two nations in place since 2020.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Israel is a key destination for Colombia\'s thermal coal exports,\" the organization said in a statement, adding that banning shipments \"jeopardizes confidence in markets and foreign investment.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Petro announced Colombia would sever ties with Israel in May over the Gaza conflict and open an embassy in Ramallah in the Palestinian territories.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Hamas attack on Israel that triggered the Gaza war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Israel\'s retaliatory military offensive has killed at least 36,801 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory\'s health ministry. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-09 10:42:39', '2024-06-09 10:42:39'),
(12677, 12677, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi exchanged pleasantries after Modi\'s swearing-in ceremony here this evening.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The foreign leaders, including Bangladesh Prime Minister, went to the oath-taking podium to greet Modi one after another as he took oath as the Indian premier for a third consecutive term.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As the Bangladesh premier, clad in light purple, approached to her Indian counterpart, Modi extended his hand to Sheikh Hasina. They shook hands there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Both the leaders exchanged brief pleasantries and inquired about each other.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi then showed the Bangladesh premier the banquet hall and accompanied to the dinner hosted by President Smt. Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan this evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Prime Minister entered the Rashtrapati Bhavan to attend the oath-taking ceremony as the third foreign leader with her daughter Saima Wazed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Top leaders from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal, Mauritius, and Seychelles attended the swearing-in ceremony of Modi.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event witnessed a record presence of over 8,000 dignitaries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Prime Minister arrived in New Delhi on Saturday to attended the oath-taking ceremony of Modi cabinet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She is expected to leave the Indian capital for Dhaka tomorrow afternoon.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-09 19:02:33', '2024-06-09 19:02:33'),
(12678, 12678, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today sought Sri Lankan investment in Bangladesh\'s tourism sector for mutual benefits of the two friendly countries.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She made the appeal at a courtesy meeting with President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe at her Place of Residence here this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"A discussion on how Sri Lankan investment can come to Bangladesh in its tourism sector was held as Sri Lanka is much ahead in tourism sector,\" Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud told a news briefing after the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two leaders also had a detailed discussion on mutual cooperation in agriculture and maritime sectors, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The meeting was just a courtesy call-on. But, the entire gamut of bilateral relations was discussed elaborately,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Sri Lankan president thanked the Bangladesh premier to help his country financially in their critical time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina invited the Sri Lankan president to visit Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In reply, Wickremesinghe said that he has a desire to visit Bangladesh, but the election in his country is ahead.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Senior Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and PM\'s Press Secretary M Nayeemul Islam Khan were present at the briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-10 09:59:44', '2024-06-10 09:59:44'),
(12679, 12679, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Citizens\' Platform on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on Monday said that the proposed budget did not show a pathway to restoring economic stability.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leaders of the civil society platform said this while speaking in a media briefing on the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 at BRAC Inn Center in the capital on Monday. Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Senior Research Fellow Towfiqul Islam Khan presented a keynote paper highlighting different sides of the budget at the briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said, “The budget talks about restoring economic stability. We are very optimistic. Dreams don\'t get any better than this. But there is no guidance on its implementation. Nothing was said about the people affected by Cyclone in the coastal areas. Why did we fall into an economic crisis?”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Talk of a Russia-Ukraine war is out. No discussion on banking sector, good governance. Market irregularities, what will happen to prevent money laundering, and the debt crisis has not been identified by the budget speech,” he pointed out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Taufiqul said, \"It is not accepted that we are in a debt situation on a large scale. In the last fiscal year our revenue was not sufficient to repay the foreign debt. We have repaid nearly Tk25000 crore.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Citizens\' Platform has also criticised the keeping provision for legalizing undisclosed money in the proposed budget.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leaders of the organization said that the opportunity to legitimize the undisclosed amount by investing only 2-3 percent in the housing sector and not 15 percent cannot be accepted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Towfiqul in the presentation said, “In the budget where there is exemption from income tax. Discounts are greatly reduced indirectly. There is no action on direct tax exemptions like garments, fuel, and microcredit. There is no guidance on what to do next. There is also no action on exemption of income tax.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said undisclosed money can be legalized with 15 percent cash. But if you buy a flat in the Gulshan area, you can get away with 2.38 percent tax. Totally legal, at the same time it appears you can get away with 2-3 percent not 15 percent. At the same time, indemnity has been paid in full. No one can ask any question. This is not acceptable.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Debapriya Bhattacharya, convenor of Citizen Platform and Honorary Fellow of CPD, presided over the event. TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman, Policy Exchange Chairman M Masrur Riaz, among others, spoke at the event.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-10 15:12:16', '2024-06-10 15:12:16'),
(12680, 12680, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said the government is working to ensure civic amenities for all the rural people throughout the country.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We’ll bring every village under the coverage of civic amenities and the people of every village will enjoy the civic amenities,”&nbsp; she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said this while handing over 18,566 more houses&nbsp; among the homeless and landless families across the country under Ashrayan-2 project on Tuesday, five days before the Eid-ul Azha.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She opened the distribution of the houses alongwith ownership documents through a videoconference from her official residence Ganabhaban, connecting to Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat, Eidgaon upazila of Cox’s Bazar, and Char Fashion upazila of Bhola.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On behalf of Sheikh Hasina, the public representatives and field-administration handed over the houses constructed under the government’s flagship housing programme, Ashrayan-2 Project, aiming to ensure housing for all.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the PM declared 70 more upazilas, including all upazilas of 26 districts, free from landlessness and homelessness people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With this declaration, the total number of landless and homeless-free districts has reached 58 and the number of landless and homeless-free Upazilas has gone up to 464 across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About the Ashrayan-2 project beneficiaries, the prime minister said the houses have brought a great change in their lives. “Confidence and self-dignity have returned among them. It is most important to develop this country,” she said.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the recent cyclone Remal-hit people,&nbsp; Hasina said thousands of people were affected by the cyclone. The government has already prepared area-wise lists of the houses which were completely or partially damaged, she said.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said the government will construct new homes in case of completely damaged houses, and will extend support to reconstruct the partially damaged houses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We’re beside the people affected by this natural disaster. We’ve been doing what they need initially. I would like to say that you don’t need to worry. Inshallah, I will make arrangements so that everyone can construct your houses,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About agricultural production, the PM said her government has increased food production and has taken steps for food and nutrition security in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She asked all not to even an inch of land uncultivated and practise austerity in the use of electricity and water.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Tuesday, the prime minister distributed 1,282 houses in Lalmonirhat, 261 in Cox’s Bazar, and 1,234 in Bhola districts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister exchanged views with beneficiaries through the videoconference.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM’s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah conducted the function.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the prime minister distributed 63,999 houses in the first phase, 53,330 in the second phase, 59,133 in the third phase, and 39,365 in the fourth phase of the Ashrayan-2 Project across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under the project, each landless and homeless family is provided with a semi-pucca house on two decimals of land, with ownership jointly granted to both husband and wife. Each house consists of two bedrooms, a kitchen, a toilet, and a veranda.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The rehabilitation programme for homeless people was initially introduced by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following that PM Hasina initiated the Ashrayan project in 1997 to provide ownership of houses and lands to homeless and landless people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since its inception, the Ashrayan project has rehabilitated a total of 771,301 families, benefiting an estimated 3,856,505 individuals. Across all programmes, 4,340,000 people from 867,904 families have been rehabilitated, including 2,910,265 people from 582,053 families under the Ashrayan Project.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 09:29:43', '2024-06-11 09:29:43');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12681, 12681, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Lieutenant General Waker-Uz-Zaman has been appointed as the new Army Chief of Bangladesh, effective June 23, 2024.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With this appointment, he will be promoted to the rank of General, as confirmed by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday (June 11, 2024). His tenure as Army Chief will last for three years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will replace General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed, who took over the Command of Bangladesh Army as the 17th Chief of Army Staff on 24 June 2021 and will complete his tenure on June 23, 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An alumnus of Bangladesh Military Academy, he was commissioned in the Corps of Infantry on December 20, 1985.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Having an illustrious career of more than three and a half decades, Lieutenant General Waker brings with him enormous experience of holding key command, staff and instructional appointments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his distinguished military career, Lieutenant General Waker commanded an Infantry Battalion, the only Independent Infantry Brigade of Bangladesh Army and an Infantry Division.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His key staff appointments include staff officer at an Infantry Brigade, School of Infantry and Tactics and Army Headquarters. He was a distinguished instructor at ‘School of Infantry and Tactics’, ‘Non-commissioned Officers’ Academy’ and Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operations Training’.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lieutenant General Waker served as the Military Secretary in Army Headquarters. Prior to joining as the CGS of Bangladesh Army, he performed as Principal Staff Officer of the Prime Minister at Armed Forces Division under Prime Minister’s Office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lieutenant General Waker is an alumnus of the Defence Services Command and Staff College, Mirpur and Joint Services Command and Staff College, UK.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He holds a Master’s degree in Defence Studies from National University of Bangladesh and Master of Arts in Defence Studies from King’s College, University of London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As the head of the Armed Forces Division, he was directly involved with the UN Peacekeeping Affairs of Bangladesh Armed Forces. He was also nominated as a Gender Champion and Gender Advocate of Bangladesh for UN Peacekeeping Affairs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">By virtue of his appointment as Principal Staff Officer, he also headed the ‘Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention’ as Chairman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under the Blue Helmet, Lieutenant General Waker completed two tours of duty as observer and staff in UNAVEM (Angola) and UNMIL (Liberia) respectively. As the CGS of the Bangladesh Army, he has been responsible for the military operations, military intelligence, UN peacekeeping affairs, budget, and many other affairs of the army.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lieutenant General Waker had the rare privilege of commanding the National Victory Day Parade for three consecutive times. He was awarded the coveted ‘Army Medal of Glory (SGP)’ and Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP) for his remarkable contributions in the modernization of the army.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He frequents as a keynote speaker in different seminars and symposiums both at home and abroad. He enjoys games and sports. He is happily married to Sarahnaz Kamalika Zaman and blessed with two daughters: Samiha Raisa Zaman and Shayeera Ibnat Zaman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 09:59:49', '2024-06-11 09:59:49'),
(12682, 12682, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley has said the EU aims to achieve economic growth and strengthen its competitiveness through the green energy transition, environmental protection, and sustainable resource use without compromising the environment.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Together, we are laying the foundation for a safer, more sustainable, and globally competitive RMG sector in Bangladesh,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ambassador highlighted the importance of the EU’s recently adopted ‘Due Diligence Directive’ and explained how EU policies, both internal and external, are guided by the European Green Deal and the EU Climate Law, with the legally binding commitment to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh Bank on Tuesday announced a successful completion&nbsp; of stakeholder engagement and grant cheque distribution event for the program to support safety retrofits and environmental upgrades in the Bangladeshi Ready-Made Garments (RMG) Sector Project (SREUP).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event, held at Utshab Hall, Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden, gathered key stakeholders from the sector to exchange insights, share updates on the SREUP project advancements, distribute investment grants, and explore the future possibilities of sustainable finance in Bangladesh’s RMG sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The SREUP project offers low-cost loans and incentive grants through financial institutions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is designed to strengthen the environmental and economic sustainability of the RMG sector through a EUR 50 million-credit facility (AFD and co-financed by EUR 14.29 million grant contribution from EU, KfW, GIZ and Government of Bangladesh being implemented by Bangladesh Bank), said the EU Embassy in Dhaka.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Inaugurating the event, Dr. Md. Kabir Ahmed, Executive Director of Bangladesh Bank, extended gratitude to Charles Whiteley, European partners, and key stakeholders, highlighting their collective commitment to advancing the RMG sector and emphasized the need for a safer, greener, and more resilient RMG industry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Cécilia Cortese, Deputy Country Director-Bangladesh, Agence Française de Développement (AFD); Michael Sumser, Country Director, KfW Office Dhaka; and Nagaraj K, Country Head, TÜV SÜD Bangladesh (Pvt.) Ltd also graced the event with their presence and speeches.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A panel discussion titled ‘Advancing Sustainable Finance for Greener RMG Sector’ featured key representative from the European Union, Edwin Koekkoek (Team Leader, Green Inclusive Development, European Union); Mohammad Anis Agung Nugroho (International Labour Organization, Programme Manager, Better Work, Bangladesh); Shovon Islam (Managing Director, Sparrow Group of Industries); Peter Ford (Program Lead, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency, H&amp;M Group); Sheikh Mohammad Maroof (Additional Managing Director &amp; Chief Business Officer, City Bank PLC); and Dr. Kabir Ahmed (Executive Director, Bangladesh Bank).&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The panel discussion was moderated by Nawshad Mustafa, Director (PSD-3), Bangladesh Bank followed by an open discussion and Q&amp;A session.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nurun Nahar, Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, expressed gratitude at the \"Stakeholder Engagement &amp; Grant Cheque Distribution Event for the SREUP project.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She highlighted Bangladesh\'s position as the second-largest garment exporter and emphasized the sector\'s role in foreign exchange and women\'s empowerment.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She urged continued efforts to improve safety, sustainability, and industry growth, thanking AFD, the EU, KfW, GIZ, and the Ministry of Finance for their support.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An \'Investment Grant Cheque Distribution Ceremony\' was held, featuring representatives from nine investment grant recipient RMG factories and participatory financial institutions (PFI).&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event concluded with closing remarks by Moni Shankar Kundu, Director and Project Director of the SREUP, Bangladesh Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 10:11:02', '2024-06-11 10:11:02'),
(12683, 12683, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Russian strikes on Ukraine\'s energy facilities have destroyed half of its electricity generation capacity since winter, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Months of Russian strikes have caused severe energy shortages in Ukraine, leading to scheduled power outages and blackouts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As a result of the strikes of Russian missiles and drones, nine gigawatts of capacity have already been destroyed. The peak of electricity consumption last winter was 18 gigawatts. So half now doesn\'t exist,\" Zelensky told a conference in Berlin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky also urged allies to supply more air defence systems, saying: \"It is missile and bomb terror that helps Russian troops advance on the ground.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Air defence is the answer,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukraine\'s state power operator said it was extending scheduled outages around the country because of increased consumption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Today... the period of application of hourly outage schedules throughout Ukraine has been extended -- restrictions will be imposed from 2:00 pm to 11:00 pm,\" Ukrenergo said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The company had announced outages on Monday between 4-10:00 pm and had said there would be outages on Tuesday between 2-7:00pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The reason is that consumption continues to grow. At the same time, due to extensive damage, Ukrainian power plants cannot produce as much electricity as before the attacks,\" the company said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky said the strikes showed Russian President Vladimir Putin was trying to \"hone the practice of destroying energy facilities\" including connections between the Ukrainian and European energy systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukrenergo chairman Volodymyr Kudrytsky said last week that it could take \"years\" for Ukraine to restore its full generating capacity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We are dealing with an absolutely unprecedented scale of destruction,\" he said, adding that the capacity of thermal power plants was at a \"historic\" low with \"virtually no hydroelectric power plant that has not been damaged.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is technically impossible to restore these damaged power plants quickly. It will take time: weeks, often months, sometimes years,\" he said in a media interview published on Ukrenergo\'s Telegram channel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked whether Ukrainian energy facilities constituted legitimate military targets, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: \"Without a doubt, in concrete cases this has to do with military infrastructure\". AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 10:13:44', '2024-06-11 10:13:44'),
(12684, 12684, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday vowed Russia would not win its war in Ukraine as he welcomed President Volodymyr Zelensky at a reconstruction conference in Berlin.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There will be no military victory and no dictated peace,\" Scholz said, calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to \"end his brutal campaign and withdraw his troops\". AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 10:21:28', '2024-06-11 10:21:28'),
(12685, 12685, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh Meteorological Department today predicted light to moderate rainfall or thundershowers with temporary gusty wind and moderately heavy to heavy falls at different places over the country in the next 24 hours commencing 9 am today.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions; at a few places over Dhaka and Chattogram divisions and at one or two places over Rajshahi, Khulna and Barishal divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions,\" said the weather bulletin issued this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Also, the bulletin predicted that the ongoing mild to moderate heat wave which is sweeping over Khulna division and the districts of Gopalgonj,</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, Pabna and Patuakhali may continue.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Due to excessive moisture content the discomfort may persist,\" it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature on Monday was recorded 39.5 degrees Celsius jointly at Ishurdi, Tarash and Sylhet. While, today\'s minimum temperature 23.6 degrees Celsius was recorded at Chapainawabganj.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rainfall for the last 24 hours commencing 6 am today was recorded 148mm at Meherpur in Khulna.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sun sets at 6:46 pm today and rises at 5:10 am tomorrow in the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 10:26:25', '2024-06-11 10:26:25'),
(12686, 12686, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on Tuesday claimed that they never said Jhenaidah-4 MP Anwarul Azim Anar was involved in smuggling.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We never said that MP Anar was involved in smuggling,” he said while speaking to the press at an event in Dhaka’s Rajarbagh on Tuesday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When asked about whether Anar\'s daughter disclosed name of any suspect, the minister said, \"It is not possible for minister, IGP, or investigating officer to make any statements until the investigation ends. We will address these issues after the investigation concludes.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the recent police shooting incident where one police personnel was killed, the minister said&nbsp; training is provided to police personnel on mental health to help reduce their mental stress.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The IGP is currently working to know the underlying causes of the killing and taking measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-11 10:32:43', '2024-06-11 10:32:43'),
(12687, 12687, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The United States has said it will continue to advocate with countries in the region, and at the United Nations, for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Myanmar so that the Rohingyas and others displaced by the violence can safely return home.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Until that day arrives, however, Bangladesh should know that the United States will remain a steadfast partner in the Rohingya refugee humanitarian response,\" said Regional Refugee Coordinator at the US Embassy, Mackenzie Rowe, during a small group briefing at the American Centre on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question from UNB, she said they have been working with many international partners to respond to this regional crisis since 2017.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The regional refugee coordinator said whatever happens within the camps and affects humanitarian assistance is a concern for them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Any issue within the camps that would affect humanitarian assistance is always a concern. We want to make sure that our assistance gets to those who are most in need. And we are certainly working with our partners, and others who are concerned to hopefully address this with all partners who wish to work with us,” she elaborated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question on the accountability front, Rowe said accountability for human rights abuses is an essential foundation for building a democratic society characterized by the rule of law.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that the United States remains committed to leading the international effort to hold those responsible for human rights abuses against civilians accountable.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US is the largest donor of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the Rohingya refugee crisis in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Total US funding for the crisis has reached nearly USD 2.4 billion since August 2017, when more than 740,000 Rohingyas fled from genocide, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Of that total, the United States has contributed nearly USD 1.9 billion to support refugees and host communities in Bangladesh alone,\" Rowe said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She underscored that Bangladesh does not stand alone. \"The United States, along with many other governments, UN agencies, and NGOs are partnering with you to help Bangladesh assist the Rohingya refugees,\" she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rowe said the international community, including the United States, thanks the people and government of Bangladesh for generously hosting refugees until they can safely and voluntarily return to their homeland.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It is fitting that ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20, we take time to acknowledge the plight of those who had been forced to flee their homes because of violence and persecution,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US official said their contributions provide life-saving assistance and protection, including access to education and training opportunities that help Rohingyas develop skills to support a voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return to Myanmar when conditions allow; strengthening disaster preparedness across the Cox’s Bazar region; and expanding access to healthcare and clean water for Rohingyas and host communities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rowe said they are willing to work with their partners and with the government of Bangladesh to hopefully find a positive way forward.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question on resettlement efforts, she said the US President has again set an ambitious goal of resettling 125,000 refugees in the United States for FY 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“So it\'s not just Bangladesh, it\'s globally. And we are hopeful that we will reach that target. And then we\'ll have to wait until September when the new target is set,” the US official said, adding that currently, there are about 12 to 13 thousand Rohingyas in the United States who have been resettled throughout the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“And we hope to see that number grow over time,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rowe said the ultimate goal is hopefully to see their return to homeland when conditions allow for a voluntary, sustainable, dignified, and safe return.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As I said before, the United States is committed to working with other donors, the international community, UN agencies, NGOs and the Bangladesh government to assist the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh until the conditions in Myanmar allow for their safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable return,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh is now hosting over 1.3 million Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-12 11:52:13', '2024-06-12 11:52:13'),
(12688, 12688, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">A Dhaka court today framed charges against Nobel laureate Dr Yunus and 13 others in a case over embezzling Tk 25.22 crore of the Grameen Telecom Workers\' welfare fund.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka’s Special Judge\'s Court-4 Judge Syed Arafat Hossain passed the order after rejecting a petition for excluding names of the accused from the charges, said the defendants’ lawyer Barrister Abdullah Al Mamun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court also set July 15 to take testimony from the witnesses, formally beginning trial in the case, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Yunus and the other accused are now on bail and they pleaded not guilty, demanding justice while the court was framing charges, said the lawyer.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Read more: US says it will continue to encourage Bangladesh govt to ensure a fair legal process for Dr. Yunus</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On February 1 this year, the investigating officer of the case, ACC Deputy Director Gulshan Anwar Pradhan, submitted the charge sheet against Dr. Yunus and 13 others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court accepted the charges against them on June 2 after a hearing in this regard.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 13 other accused in the case are: Grameen Telecom MD Nazmul Islam; Director Ashraful Hasan, former MD Parveen Mahmood; Najnin Sultana, Shahjahan, Noorjahan Begum, and S. M. Hazzatul Islam Latifi, all serving as directors; along with Advocate Yusuf Ali; Advocate Zaforul Hasan Sharif; Md Kamruzzaman, President of the Union of Grameen Telecom Employees; Firoz Mahmud Hasan, General Secretary; Kamrul Hasan, office secretary of the Employees\' Union office, and representative Mainul Islam.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gulshan Anwar, the Deputy Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), filed the case as the primary complainant on May 30, 2023.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-12 11:57:02', '2024-06-12 11:57:02'),
(12689, 12689, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>The United Arab Emirates will issue visa for Bangladeshi workers only after confirmation of their jobs in the Gulf nation, the country’s envoy said on Thursday during a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UAE ambassador Abdulla Ali Abdulla Khaseif Alhmoudi called on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence Ganabhaban, PM’s Press Secretary M Nayeemul Islam Khan told reporters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The UAE ambassador assured the prime minister that they would take manpower from Bangladesh after confirming that jobs are already there for them,” he said quoting the ambassador.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to him the prime minister and the envoy agreed that illegal migrants from Bangladesh should not be allowed to enter the UAE.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Both the countries have agreed to be more aware regarding this matter,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UAE envoy told the PM that several UAE ministers will soon visit Dhaka to explore new avenues for deepening relations with Bangladesh, including in the field of investment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We already have very extensive and deep relation, but we are eager to take it further to a new height,” the ambassador said during the call on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He mentioned that at present about 20,000 people are going to UAE every month from Bangladesh. UAE embassy is issuing some 1000 visas each day – 500 directly and another 500 through agents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the investment issue PM Hasina offered the UAE businesses to make investments in Bangladesh’s special economic zones.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UAE envoy sought cooperation from the prime minister to expedite UAE’s investments in Bangladesh, including in building a container terminal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM told the envoy that the government is speeding up everything in all sectors. “We are doing everything to quicken the process,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambassador said that a UAE company has offered to provide Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) to the civil aviation of Bangladesh. The process is at the final stage of the price negotiation level, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister referred the issue to PMO secretary Mohammad Salahuddin, PM’s press secretary said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">For security reasons, the US, the EU member states, and other countries now require airlines to provide details about their passengers before they travel. This is known as Advance Passenger Information (API).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) is an electronic data interchange system established by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beginning in May 2009, private aircraft pilots must also provide the necessary information to the CBP. The regulations were put into effect in December 2008 with a 180-day voluntary compliance period.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UAE ambassador invited the prime minister to visit his country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">He said that UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum are eagerly waiting to welcome her.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-13 10:14:39', '2024-06-13 10:14:39'),
(12690, 12690, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Dhaka and New Delhi on Saturday signed 10 instruments including three renewed MoUs for strengthening bilateral cooperation on different sectors.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sectors include blue economy, oceanographic research, fisheries, disaster and health, space and military education.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two shared visions, five new MoUs and three renewed MoUs were exchanged in presence of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after a bilateral meeting between the two sides at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two visions which were exchanged are Shared vision of India Bangladesh Digital Partnership; and Shared Vision of India Bangladesh Green Partnership for a Sustainable Future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The five other new documents are MoU between the Government of Bangladesh and Government of India in the Field of Blue Economy and Maritime Cooperation in the Bay of Bengal and India Ocean Region; MoU between Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI), Bangladesh and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India for Joint Research on Oceanography of the Indian Ocean and Capacity Building;&nbsp; MoU on Rail Connectivity between India and Bangladesh; MoU between Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), and Bangladesh\'s Ministry of Posts, Telecommunication and Information Technology for Collaboration on a Joint Small Satellite Project; and MoU on Academic Cooperation between Defence Staff Colleges.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Three renewed documents are MoU for Fisheries Cooperation; MoU for Disaster Management; and MoU in Cooperation in the Field of Health and Medicine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two shared visions; MoU on maritime cooperation and blue economy; and renewed MoU in health and medicine were exchanged by Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra on behalf of their respective sides.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The MoU on Joint Small Satellite Project was exchanged by Chairman and CEO of Bangladesh Satellite Company Dr Shahjahan Mahmood and Secretary of Indian Space Department S Somanath, while the MoU on railway connectivity by Bangladesh’s Railways Secretary Dr Md Humayun Kabir and Chairperson of Indian Railway Board Jaya Sinha.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, MoU for Cooperation in Oceanography, two renewed MoUs for cooperation in the disaster management and the fisheries sector were exchanged by Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Mustafizur Rahman and India High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The final MoU between DSSC, Wellington and DSCSC Mirpur for cooperation concerning military education in the field of strategic and operational studies was exchanged by Principal Staff Officer of Bangladesh’s Armed Force Division Lieutenant General Mizanur Rahman Shameem and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-22 10:12:35', '2024-06-22 10:12:35'),
(12691, 12691, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India will start e-medical visa facility for Bangladeshis.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Narendra Modi said they have taken the initiative to open a new Assistant High Commission in Rangpur for the convenience of the people of the North West region of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I wish both the teams all the best for the Cricket World Cup match this evening...Bangladesh is India\'s largest development partner and we give utmost priority to our relations with Bangladesh...,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Indian PM made the remarks after a tete-e-tete and bilateral meeting with Bangladesh PrimMinister Sheikh Hasina at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said both countries will benefit from the agreement reached on cooperation in many areas such as Green Partnership, Digital Partnership, Blue Economy and Space.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have kept in our focus - Connectivity, Commerce and Collaboration,\" Modi said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two countries have 54 shared rivers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have been cooperating on flood management, early warning, drinking water projects. We have decided to start negotiations at the technical level for the renewal of the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A technical team will soon visit Bangladesh to discuss river conservation and management.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They two countries had detailed discussions on further strengthening defence cooperation, from defence production to modernisation of armed forces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They have decided to strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism, de-radicalisation and peaceful management of borders.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi said Bangladesh is India\'s largest development partner, and they attach the highest priority to their relations with Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He reiterated India\'s commitment to realising Bangabandhu\'s vision of a stable, prosperous and progressive Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I congratulate Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for leading \"Sonar Bangla\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Modi said they have prepared a futuristic vision for cooperation in new areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina and Narendra Modi on Saturday held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House of the Indian capital city.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, they had a one-to-one meeting (tete-a-tete).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in New Delhi on a two-day state visit to India, was accorded a warm ceremonial reception by her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-22 10:19:59', '2024-06-22 10:19:59'),
(12692, 12692, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Awami League (AL), Bangladesh’s oldest and largest political party, is celebrating its 75th founding anniversary with nationwide festivities today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To mark the occasion, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid tribute to the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, by placing a wreath at his portrait at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi-32 this morning. Following the tribute, she stood in solemn silence, honouring Bangabandhu’s memory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Hasina, accompanied by AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader, inaugurated the day’s celebrations by hoisting the national and party flags and releasing pigeons and balloons. The Awami League had previously outlined an array of elaborate programs for the anniversary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The day’s events began with the hoisting of national and party flags at central and regional party offices at dawn. Tributes were paid at Bangabandhu’s portrait in front of Bangabandhu Bhaban at 7 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A discussion is scheduled for 3 pm at Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan, followed by a cultural event. Awami League President and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to chair the discussion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Additionally, cultural programs will take place at Rabindra Sarobar, and there will be a boat race and cycle rally at Hatirjheel in the afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A delegation from the Awami League Central Working Committee will honour Bangabandhu by placing a wreath at his mausoleum in Tungipara, Gopalganj today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Awami League was founded on this day in 1949. Over the decades, it has evolved into the country’s largest political party, leading the movements for independence, the Liberation War, and various democratic movements.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-23 09:35:37', '2024-06-23 09:35:37'),
(12693, 12693, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>General Waker-Uz-Zaman officially assumed office as the Army Chief of Bangladesh today. His tenure as Army Chief will last for the next three years, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">General Waker-Uz-Zaman succeeds General S M Shafiuddin Ahmed, who served as the 17th Chief of Army Staff from June 24, 2021, completing his tenure on June 23, 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An alumnus of the Bangladesh Military Academy, General Waker was commissioned in the Corps of Infantry on December 20, 1985.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With a distinguished career spanning more than three and a half decades, he brings extensive experience from holding key command, staff, and instructional positions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He has served as the Military Secretary at Army Headquarters and, before his appointment as Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Bangladesh Army, he was the Principal Staff Officer of the Prime Minister at the Armed Forces Division under the Prime Minister’s Office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">General Waker is also an alumnus of the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Mirpur and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the UK.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He holds a Master’s degree in Defence Studies from the National University of Bangladesh and a Master of Arts in Defence Studies from King’s College, University of London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-23 09:39:59', '2024-06-23 09:39:59'),
(12694, 12694, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday paid tribute to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman marking the 75th founding anniversary of the ruling Awami League.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She paid homage to Bangabandhu by placing a wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation at Bangabandhu Memorial Museum at Dhanmondi-32 this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After laying the wreath, the prime minister stood in solemn silence for some time as a mark of profound respect for the memory of Bangabandhu.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, flanked by senior party leaders, Sheikh Hasina, also president of the Awami League, paid tribute to Bangabandhu by placing another wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation on behalf of her party.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina along with AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader inaugurated the day\'s programme by hoisting the national and party flags and releasing pigeons and balloons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Awami League was formed on this day in 1949, which later transformed into the biggest political party in the country to lead movements for freedom, the War of Liberation and all democratic movements.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-23 09:44:30', '2024-06-23 09:44:30');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12695, 12695, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh will take on Afghanistan in their last match of the Super 8 phase with an aim to keep their slim hopes of making T20 World Cup semi-final alive at Kingstown in St Vincent on Tuesday as the match starts at 6.30 AM (Bangladesh Time).</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After losing two straight defeats to Australia and India, Bangladesh\'s hope to make it last four stages looked all but ended but a stunning Afghanistan victory over mighty Australia gave them a slim hope.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, there was many ifs and buts involved if Bangladesh would like to reach semifinal. Firstly, Australia will have to taste a defeat to India by a large margin and Bangladesh will have to beat Afghanistan by a handsome margin. Only in that case, Bangladesh could sneak to semifinal. If Australia beat India in a match that will be held on Monday night, then Bangladesh will all but exit from the race even before taking on Afghanistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Even if Australia win, Bangladesh will be out there to restore some pride as they would like to bow out with a victory in Super 8 phase. At the same time, Bangladesh\'s victory will essentially ruin Afghanistan\'s hopes to make the semifinal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A Bangladesh victory looked on the cards even though Afghanistan have been in top form. The World Cup stat suggested that Afghanistan have never won a match against Bangladesh in ICC tournament, be it in 50-over or T20 over cricket. In T20 World Cup, however, the two teams met only once in 2014 and Bangladesh won that game by nine wickets after bowling Afghanistan out for just 72 runs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Overall in T20 format, Afghanistan have the slight edge, winning six and losing five against Bangladesh in 11 meetings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan lost their first game to India by 47 runs but stunned Australia by 21 runs, defending 148-6. The St Vincent pitch in which they beat Australia is also a lucky ground for Bangladesh mainly for its slow-paced nature that gave the Tigers a home like condition out of home.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan have the bowling attack to thrive in St Vincent pitch which they demonstrated against Australia but still Bangladesh would be favourite. Bangladesh in fact play in this kind of wicket throughout the year at home and so they will be further bolstered by the pitch.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In St Vincent, Bangladesh won their match against Netherlands and Nepal to make it Super 8 phase. However they had to play their first two matches of Super 8 in Antigua and as expectedly they failed to show any skill on true pitch. They lost the first match to Australia by 28 runs on DLS before conceding a 50-run defeat to India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While mathematically Bangladesh still has the chance to make it semifinal, its ace allrounder Shakib Al Hasan think otherwise. All that he wants to put a good show against Afghanistan to have winning end to the tournament.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"To be honest, I don\'t think we have a chance to play the semi-final anymore after today\'s loss. But having said that, the next game will be an opportunity for us to get a win on our belt before we finish up this tournament,\" Shakib said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'d love to finish this tournament on a high. We have to face Afghanistan which is a very good side. So, we have to be at our best to be able to win against them.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh\'s first XI against India was much criticized and it is believed that they would tinker with the squad further against Afghanistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>&nbsp;</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>Squad:</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>Bangladesh:</b> Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Taskin Ahmed, Litton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Shakib Al Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmud Ullah Riyad, Jaker Ali Anik, Tanvir Islam, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Travelling reserves: Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>Afghanistan: </b>Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (c), Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-23 09:48:35', '2024-06-23 09:48:35'),
(12696, 12696, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>A Russian strike on a residential building in Ukraine\'s second-largest city Kharkiv killed two people and injured more than 50, rescuers said on Sunday, revising down a previous death toll.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia has stepped up attacks in the northeastern Kharkiv region after launching a new offensive there last month, seeking to break a largely static front line as the invasion grinds through its third year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A five-storey residential building was damaged when guided bombs hit Kharkiv city on Saturday, Ukrainian officials said, with the state emergency service announcing the completion of rescue work by Sunday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As a result of this aerial bomb strike, 2 people have been killed and 53 others were injured, including 3 children,\" it wrote on Telegram.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday had announced three deaths and condemned Russia\'s \"calculated terror\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An engineer wounded in a Russian strike on an energy facility in the southern Zaporizhzhia region died in hospital, regional governor Ivan Fedorov said on Sunday. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-23 09:53:23', '2024-06-23 09:53:23'),
(12697, 12697, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday said her government wants to develop an education system in the country so that the students can pursue their studies with interest and joy.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There should be an education system so that students can pursue study with interest, there would be no need to ask them repeatedly to study rather they would do it on their own and they have such desire. We want to develop this system,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said this while inaugurating the distribution of stipends, tuition fees and awards among insolvent and meritorious students at a programme in the city’s Osmani Memorial Auditorium.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She opened the distribution of stipends and tuition fees among the insolvent and meritorious students from the secondary-graduation (pass) and its equivalent-level.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the event, the PM also conferred the awards to the most talented students of Bangabandhu Srijanshil Medha Onneshan-2024 (Bangabandhu Creative Talent Search-2024) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Scholar Award-2023.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina said her government modified textbooks and syllabus, and took initiative for a creative education system in a bid to keep pace with the changing world.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said the government wants to go for a system where there’ll be learning amid a joyful atmosphere.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury presided over the function, while PM’s Education and Cultural Affairs Adviser Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury and State Minister for Education Begum Shamsun Naher spoke on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of Tk 2,208 crore would be disbursed among more than 6,470,000 (64.70 lakh) students from the secondary, higher secondary and graduation and equivalent institutions, said Secretary of Secondary and Higher Education Division Suleman Khan in his welcome speech.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The stipends and tuition fees are being disbursed through online mobile financial service to the students under the G2P (government to person) system in the current fiscal year, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, 15 talented students who were found out through the Bangabandhu Srijanshil Mridha Oneshan-2024, were awarded, while 21 post graduate-level students were conferred with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Scholar Award-2023, said the secretary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 15 students each received a certificate and Tk 2 lakh, while the 21 students, selected for the scholarship award-2023, each received a certificate and Tk 3 lakh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nusrat Jahan Maliha, a class-VIII student of Hazaribagh Girls’ School and College on behalf of the students; Atifa Rahman, a class-X student of Amena-Baki Residential Model School and College in Dinajpur and Pinak Mugdha Das, a Class-XI student of Government Majid Memorial City College in Khulna on behalf of the awardees under Bangabandhu Srijanshil Medha Oneshon-2024; and Zarin Tasneem Raisa, a student of English Department at Dhaka University and Al Foysal Bin Kashem Kanon, a student of the Education Department at Dhaka University, on behalf of the awardees under Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Scholarship Award-2023, shared their feelings at the function.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-24 09:10:52', '2024-06-24 09:10:52'),
(12698, 12698, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Advocate Anisul Huq has dismissed claims that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is not receiving adequate medical treatment in Bangladesh, calling such accusations \"laughable.\"</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During a press briefing at his office in the Secretariat today, the minister addressed journalists\' questions regarding the ongoing treatment of Khaleda Zia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Khaleda Zia requires medical treatment, and she is receiving it at the hospital where she is currently admitted. That\'s why she remains in stable condition. She has several chronic ailments that are not fully curable, but the necessary treatments to manage these conditions are being administered,\" he stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Anisul Huq also highlighted recent medical procedures, noting, \"Just yesterday at around 4 pm, a pacemaker was installed for her, and she is now in stable condition due to that pacemaker.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister emphasized that Khaleda Zia is indeed receiving proper medical care. \"When local doctors deemed it necessary to bring in specialists from abroad for her treatment, the government did not hesitate to grant permission. Therefore, those who claim that Khaleda Zia is not receiving proper treatment are only making themselves appear ridiculous,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When asked about questions regarding his sincerity and humanity, the minister responded, \"Listen, we need to check if they are in the right frame of mind. They make these statements because their approach is not balanced. If they wish to express anger and frustration towards me through press conferences, they are free to do so. However, I hope they refrain from personal attacks.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"42\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-24 09:46:58', '2024-06-24 09:46:58'),
(12699, 12699, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh witnessed its highest Letter of Credit (LC) openings in 23 months, amounting to US $6.83 billion in May 2024, amid an ongoing foreign exchange crisis, according to Bangladesh Bank.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Previously, the highest LC opening was recorded in June 2022, reaching $7.02 billion. Since then, fluctuating dollar exchange rates and the domestic currency, the taka, have generally led to a decreasing trend in LC openings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In April 2024, LCs worth $5.68 billion were opened. The figures for May show a significant increase of more than 20 percent compared to April. Compared to the same period in 2023, LC openings in May rose by 19.5 percent.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Economists and market analysts attribute this trend to several factors, including tax benefits at the end of FY 2023-24 and the anticipation of the withdrawal of tax exemptions on various products in the FY 2024-25 budget.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr. Ahsan H Mansur, Executive Director of the Policy Research Institute (PRI), explained to UNB that the increase in LC openings in May was influenced by a more lenient import policy on some items towards the fiscal year\'s end.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Additionally, traders rushed to open LCs fearing further increases in dollar exchange rates after the central bank raised the rate by Tk 7 in a single move on May 8, 2024, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Trade analyst Dr. M. Mashrur Reaz noted that the increase in LC openings after a long period was also due to an improved dollar supply, thanks to remittances and foreign loan disbursements.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite ongoing macroeconomic instability in Bangladesh, trade volume and business transactions have increased in recent months. Government policy support on capital imports also impacted LC openings, Dr. Reaz observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Furthermore, the announcement of new taxes on capital machinery imports in the FY 2024-25 contributed to the spike in LC openings. Capital machinery imports were tax-free until now, Dr. Reaz pointed out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-24 09:54:56', '2024-06-24 09:54:56'),
(12700, 12700, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said the government will accept the financing proposal for the Teesta Masterplan Project, considering which one is the most beneficial for the country.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have undertaken the Teesta project. China and India have given separate proposals (for financing it). We must accept the proposal which will be more beneficial for the people of our country,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier made the remarks while replying to a volley of questions at a press conference in her official residence Ganabhaban over the outcome of her recent visit to India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said China has already conducted a feasibility study over the Teesta project and India will also carry out a feasibility study. “We’ll go for the one which is the most acceptable and beneficial for us,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM, however, said if India makes the Teesta project implemented, all problems will be solved.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Since our demand for Teesta water is a long-standing one with India, if India makes our Teesta project, all problems will be solved,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India would send its technical team, she said, adding that both Indian team and Bangladesh would jointly assess it, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM went to New Delhi on June 21 on a two-day state visit to India at the invitation of her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This was the first bilateral visit by any head of government to India after the BJP-led alliance formed its government for the third consecutive term following the Lok Sabha elections.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League general secretary and also road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader, Deputy Leader of the House Matia Chowdhury, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud, PM’s Private Industry and Invest Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, AL presidium members Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim MP and Kazi Zafarullah were on the dais.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM’s Press Secretary Md Nayeemul Islam Khan conducted the press conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-25 09:23:04', '2024-06-25 09:23:04'),
(12701, 12701, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh bowed out the T20 World Cup with a sour note after suffering an eight-run defeat to Afghanistan on DLS method in their last match of the Super 8 phase at St Vincent in West Indies today.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Tigers which moved to the second round of a T20 World Cup for the first time since the inaugural edition in 2007, lost all of the three matches in this phase.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They began the match with a slim hope to make it semifinal after Australia opened the gate for them by tasting a 24-run defeat to India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh, however, were well on course of materializing the hopes when they held Afghanistan off to 115-5 in 20 overs. To make it semifinal by beating the teams like Australia and Afghanistan on net run rate, Bangladesh were given the target to chase it down by 12.1 overs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Even though on a tricky pitch, it was always a tough target to chase but given their habit of playing in this kind of wicket at home always, Bangladesh are believed to overhaul it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But apart from Liton Das, no one could show the determination and stubbornness, which first ruined Bangladesh\'s hopes to chase down the total in 12.1 overs and later paved their defeat as they were bowled out for 105 in 17.5 overs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Liton Das battled lonely to be stranded on 54 off 49 with five fours and one six.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan claimed 4-23 while fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq also snapped up 4-26 including Bangladesh\'s last two wickets to send the team to the semifinal for the first time in their country\'s history.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first in a match hit by rain quite a several times, knowing that a victory would put them in the semifinal. The possibility of the proud history seemed to have put a huge pressure on them as their batters looked nervous.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Still Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, the two openers grinded it out to put on 59 runs for the opening stand but they took 10.4 overs to get it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain who took 3-26 and achieved the feat to take highest wickets for Bangladesh in a single edition of the tournament, going past Shakib Al Hasan\'s record, struck twice to dismiss those two openers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gurbaz made team-best 43 off 55 with three fours and one six while Zadran scored 18. In between Mustafizur Rahman took the wicket of Azmatullah Omarzai for 10. Taskin who ended with 4-1-12-1 and Mustafizur who had figures of 4-0-17-1, stifled Afghanistan to slow down the scoring rate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, Rashid Khan hit three sixes off Tanzim Hasan Sakib in the last over to help the side post 115-5 and those three sixes eventually made all the difference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Liton Das started the chase with a bang, taking 13 runs in the first over and Bangladesh looked on the course to chase it down by 12.1 overs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But apart from Liton, no one could come with the terms. After Fazalhaq Farooqi dismissed Tanzid Hasan Tamim for a three-ball-duck, Naveen-ul-Haq jolted Bangladesh, removing Najmul Hossain Shanto (5) and Shakib Al Hasan, also for duck, in consecutive deliveries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With Bangladesh at 23-3, Liton and Soumya Sarkar (10) looked to have bailed Bangladesh out of danger but Rashid Khan struck to get rid of Soumya, ending 25-run partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rashid then got the better of Towhid Hridoy, who made second best 14, before he claimed the wicket of experienced Mahmudullah (6) and Rishad Hossain for duck to put Afghanistan on the verge of the victory.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Liton finally found form after a lengthy batting patch and played with guts to keep Bangladesh in the hunt. But Naveen-ul-Haq brought the watershed moment for Afghanistan cricket by cleaning up the tail with a gem of pace bowling.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-25 09:34:32', '2024-06-25 09:34:32'),
(12702, 12702, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh Meteorological Department today predicted the ongoing mild heat wave is likely to continue at six places across the country in the next 24 hours commencing 9 am today.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Mild heat wave is sweeping over Rajshahi and Khulna divisions and the districts of Tangail, Faridpur, Manikganj, Rangpur, Sayedpur and Patuakhali and it may continue,\"said the weather bulletin issued this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Due to excessive moisture, discomfort may persist,\" it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh, Sylhet and Chattogram divisions; at a few places over Rajshahi, Dhaka and Barisal divisions and at one or two places over Khulna division with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over Rangpur, Mymensingh, Chattogram &amp; Sylhet divisions,\" it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Country\'s maximum temperature on Monday was recorded 38.7 degrees Celsius at Rajshahi. While, today\'s minimum temperature 24.1 degrees Celsius was recorded at Bandarban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rainfall for the last 24 hours commencing 6 am today was recorded 57mm at Sylhet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sun sets at 6:50pm today and rises at 5:11am tomorrow in the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-25 09:40:43', '2024-06-25 09:40:43'),
(12703, 12703, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said she will die if she is isolated from the public, asking the Special Security Force (SSF) not to detach her from the people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If you make me isolated from the people, it doesn’t need to shoot me to death. I will die anyway because they (people) are my life-blood,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina was addressing the Darbar of the SSF on its 38th founding anniversary at the Prime Minister\'s Office (PMO) here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister asked the SSF personnel not to ever isolate her from the people with whom and for whom she does politics.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We do politics. I have no other strength. People are my only strength. We do politics with the power of the people. So, make sure that I will not be isolated from the public,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She reminded all that the people were with her when she was not in power.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this regard, the premier mentioned that a very ordinary person, rickshaw- puller purchased a piece of land after her name with his hard earned money.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said she later built a house on that land and gave it to the rickshaw-puller with its ownership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So, I won\'t allow isolating these people from me. They give me power to march ahead. Everyone should keep it in mind,\" she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister asked the SSF personnel to perform their duties in ensuring security for the VVIPS with firmness, efficiency, discipline, honesty, responsibility and topmost professionalism.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If you have no firmness, honesty and responsibility, it will not be possible to be successful,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said she always thinks about the safety and security of the SSF personnel as they are entrusted with ensuring protection of her risking their lives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said several attempts were made on her life in which many of her party leaders and activists were killed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She continued 22 leaders and activists including late president Zillur Rahman\'s wife Ivy Rahman were killed in August 21, 2004 grenade attack.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said she prays for all including the SSF personnel as they remain safe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said her government is doing everything to ensure safety of the SSF personnel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government first built shooting range for SSF after assuming power for the first time in 1996.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The shooting range is now being modernised with updated equipment, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said they have made Bangladesh Digital and are now working to transform it into a smart country by 2041 and change the fate of the people by giving them beautiful and improved life.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government is now implementing Delta Plan-2100 to give generation after generation better and secured life.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Security Affairs Adviser Major General (rtd) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and PM\'s Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah were present on the dais.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">SSF DG Major General AKM Nazmul Hasan gave the address of welcome.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Presidential Security Force (PSF) which was later renamed SSF came into being on June 15, 1986.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-26 09:37:20', '2024-06-26 09:37:20'),
(12704, 12704, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Corruption is a way of life across the world, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said today, emphasizing that the issue is not exclusive to Bangladesh.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader\'s candid remarks came during the inauguration of the BRTC shuttle bus service at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We aren’t claiming that there is no corruption here. It isn’t correct to say that only government officials are corrupt and politicians aren’t,” said Quader, who also serves as the general secretary of the Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“When we speak, we must consider everyone; we should first look at our own reflection in the mirror. I am speaking out against the corruption of officials, and there is corruption in my sector as well. Isn’t there? Of course, there is,” he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Minister Quader also highlighted the crucial role of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in tackling corruption. “I believe the ACC is here, and the Prime Minister is steadfast in her zero-tolerance policy towards corruption,” he stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader affirmed the ACC’s independence, underscoring its authority to investigate corruption without government interference. “The government has not and will not interfere with this independence,” he assured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-26 09:51:20', '2024-06-26 09:51:20'),
(12705, 12705, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>President Mohammed Shahabuddin has asked the newly-appointed Bangladesh ambassador to Kuwait to work for the overall welfare of expatriate Bangladeshis living in Kuwait as well as facilitate manpower exports there.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Head of State came up with the directive as the new ambassador of Bangladesh to Kuwait Major General Syed Tarek Hossain today paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The President instructed the ambassador to properly utilize the potential to increase Bangladesh\'s trade and investment with Kuwait,\" President\'s Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin told BSS subsequently.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The new ambassador sought the direction of the president in carrying out his assignment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Secretaries concerned to the President\'s office were present.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-26 11:23:06', '2024-06-26 11:23:06'),
(12706, 12706, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><br></span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today received over Taka 314 crore as the 7th and 8th installments of loan repayment taken for the construction of the Padma Bridge.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader handed over a cheque of Taka 314,64,86,963 to the Prime Minister as the seventh and eighth installments of loan for Padma Bridge at a programme at the Ganabhaban here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah, PMO secretary Mohammad Salahuddin, PM\'s Press Secretary M Nayeemul Islam Khan, Finance Division Secretary Dr. Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder and other concerned high officials were present at the programme.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With the latest installments, the bridges division has so far paid a total of Taka 1262,66,06,548 to the government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On April 5, the bridges division began the repayment of the loan with Taka 316,90,97,050 from the revenue it earned as toll collection from the bridge as the first and second installments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of Taka 1653,71,65,550 was collected as toll from the Padma Bridge since its operation on June 25 in 2022 to June 26, 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Padma Bridge was built with own finance at a cost of over Taka 32,605.52 crore.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The loan was taken from Bangladesh Bank at a low interest rate under an agreement signed between the Finance Division and the Bangladesh Bridge Authority.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On June 25, 2022, the Prime Minister opened the country\'s largest bridge - 6.15-km Padma Bridge - over the mighty river Padma.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 09:26:07', '2024-06-27 09:26:07'),
(12707, 12707, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>South Africa trounced Afghanistan by nine wickets Wednesday to reach the Twenty20 World Cup final, ending a long cricket drought.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Reeza Hendricks hit a six and a four on consecutive deliveries to lift South Africa to 60 for 1 in the ninth over, easily surpassing Afghanistan’s 56.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was the first time in eight World Cup semifinals across the one-day and T20 formats that South Africa had managed a victory. Now it\'s just potentially one victory away from a maiden World Cup title.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan won the toss Wednesday and opted to bat first but everything went South Africa’s way after that with the pace bowlers taking out the top order.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Marco Jansen (3-16) took wickets in the first and third overs and Kagiso Rabada (2-14) opened with a double-wicket maiden as Afghanistan slumped to 20-4 after 3.4 overs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The opening pair that had carried Afghanistan so well during the tournament was gone, exposing the middle and lower order to a South Africa bowling attack hitting form at the perfect stage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rahmanullah Gurbaz faced three balls before he edged to slip and was out to Jansen in the first over. Ibrahim Zadran was beaten by a Rabada inswinger and bowled on the first ball of the third over.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi took three wickets in 11 deliveries — all lbw decisions to balls keeping low — to finish off Afghanistan for 56 in 11.5 overs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Azmattullah Omarzai top scored with 10, the only Afghan batter to reach double figures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Africa lost only opener Quinton de Kock in the run chase.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We weren’t expecting that. We just wanted to come out in this game and hit our straps,, the way we’ve been doing throughout the entire tournament,” Rabada said. “We just felt that we needed to continue in that vein.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“And today it just happened for us.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked if this is the team to finally end South Africa\'s World Cup drought, Rabada was confident: “We 100% believe that this is the team.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan-South Africa T20 World Cup semifinal pits cricket\'s overachievers against underachievers</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Defending champion England and India will meet in the second semifinal on Thursday. The winner will play South Africa on Saturday at the century-old Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan was playing in the last four for the first time, and it entered the match with three of the five leading bowlers in the tournament and two of the top three batters, based on runs scored.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Africa remains unbeaten at the tournament, but had to endure tough contests and narrow wins over Nepal, Netherlands, Bangladesh and England and only beat West Indies with five balls to spare in the Super Eight stage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 09:45:48', '2024-06-27 09:45:48');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12708, 12708, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Britain’s Labour party has been forced to issue a clarification on comments made by its leader Keir Starmer regarding the removal of Bangladeshi migrants from the UK, as reports emerged of outrage among members of the British-Bangladeshi community ahead of next week’s general election.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At a town hall with readers of The Sun, a rightwing tabloid, earlier this week, Starmer said: \"At the moment people coming from countries like Bangladesh are not being removed because they’re not being processed.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was being asked about Labour\'s rejection of the Conservative government policy of deporting migrants who arrive in the UK illegally in small boats to Rwanda. Starmer was trying to explain his policy would be to send illegal migrants back to their countries of origin.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The number of people being returned to where they came from has dropped off by 44 percent under this government. So on the first few days of government, I’ll tell you what I do, I’ll put the staff back in the returns unit, I’ll make sure I’ve got planes going off, not to Rwanda because that’s an expensive gimmick,\" the Labour leader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked where the migrants would go, Starmer, who is being described as a ‘prime minister in waiting’, replied: \"They will go back to the countries where people come from. That’s what used to happen.\" He then made the reference to Bangladeshi migrants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A clip of the interaction described by news website PoliticsHome, that has reportedly been distributed on WhatsApp groups, shows Starmer talking of \"people coming from countries like Bangladesh\" but does not explicitly specify that he is referring to people without permission to settle in the UK.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the end of the video, a message reads: \"Don\'t vote for Labour on 4 July. Vote for Independent candidates.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pro-Palestinian independent candidates are standing against Labour in a number of seats across England in the UK’s election, and regard voters disillusioned with Labour as their most likely supporters.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Labour party in a statement said: \"Keir has proudly supported the Bangladeshi community across the UK, who make an enormous contribution to our country. This clip has been edited to make it look as though Keir Starmer is suggesting repatriation of British Bangladeshis. It is misinformation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In fact, Keir is referring to Labour\'s long established policy of returning those who don\'t have the legal right to be in the UK to safe countries. Bangladesh was only used as an example, as there is already a bilateral agreement between the two countries.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The reference is to a new agreement signed between the two governments in May \"to speed up the removal of migrants with no right to be in the country\" by removing a mandatory interview in cases \"where there is good supporting evidence for removal\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK and Bangladesh held their first ever Joint Working Group meeting on Home Affairs at the British Home Office in London and signed the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Returns, UNB reported at the time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nevertheless, the traditional support for Labour within the Bangladeshi community in the UK was set to be tested, as another candidate for the party in next week’s elections, Jon Ashworth, a member of Starmer’s shadow cabinet in the last parliament, also told the BBC this week that a Labour government would send migrants “from countries like Bangladesh or wherever” back to their countries of origin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The reaction within Starmer’s own party has been stark. Labour has seven candidates of Bangladeshi origin standing in the election on July 4. Four of them were incumbent MPs till parliament was dissolved ahead of the election.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rushanara Ali - the first British-Bangladeshi MP in the House of Commons and Shadow Minister - said in a message circulated online: \"There has been considerable concern and upset following the release of a clip of the Labour Party leader. I have been in close contact with his team to relay the concerns in our community\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apsana Begum, the Labour candidate standing for re-election in Poplar and Limehouse, tweeted a video of herself – in English and in Sylheti – criticising politicians using \"dog-whistle racism against Bangladeshis\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stepney Green Councillor Sabina Akhtar, deputy leader of Labour’s Tower Hamlets unit, handed in her resignation. \"I was a proud Labour party member, but I find I cannot be proud of this party anymore when the leader singles out my community and insults my Bangladeshi identity,\" she said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Paula Barker, who is re-standing to be the Labour MP for Liverpool Wavertree, tweeted: \"Bangladeshis do not come here illegally. Their contribution to our national life and our community here in Liverpool is immeasurable. I will always stand with them now and always\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Starmer and Ashworth’s comments have been described as racist dog whistles that have left members of the British-Bangladeshi community “seething with anger”.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the 2021 census, there were a total of 652,535 Bangladeshis in the United Kingdom, around 1% of the total population. Nearly half of the population live in London, and the community is regarded as the driving force behind Britain’s $5 billion curry industry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Immigration is a hot-button issue in this year’s election in the UK, with the status of asylum seekers a particular concern for some voters. British government statistics show that the top countries of origin of people seeking asylum in the UK are Afghanistan, Iran and India, with Bangladesh ranking seventh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Labour currently enjoys a big lead in the polls, and is expected to win the election ending 14 years of Conservative rule. But both parties are trying to avoid leaking votes to the newly-formed Reform party, that has set out its stall almost entirely around a pledge to drastically reduce net migration into the UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 09:51:55', '2024-06-27 09:51:55'),
(12709, 12709, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Accusing the Prime Minister of making Bangladesh completely hostage to India, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday urged the Awami League government not to betray the nation by signing anti-sate deals with the neighbouring country.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking at a rally, he also questioned the achievements Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from her recent visit to India, as she failed to address crucial issues such as Teesta River water-sharing and border killings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The existence of Bangladesh is now endangered. None of the agreements and MoUs (signed by the PM with India) are in favor of Bangladesh, the BNP leader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fakhrul slammed Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud for reportedly saying that the BNP does not understand the difference between a treaty and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I don\'t want to respond to him. I just want to say one thing: do not betray the country. Do not sign any anti-state deal or MoU by fooling and misleading the people,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nari O Shishu Odhikar Forum, a pro-BNP platform, arranged the rally in front of the party’s Nayapaltan Central Office, demanding the unconditional release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital since June 22.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fakhrul asked the Prime Minister what she has brought back from India this time. “There’s no mention of water anywhere. What was mentioned is alarming. India has proposed to engage in the Teesta project, and China has also given a proposal to this end. The Prime Minister said she would see which of the two is better.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the Prime Minister also mentioned that if India is entrusted with the project, the water problem will be resolved. “Are we all fools living in this country? On the contrary, what you (PM) did is ignore the Teesta water-sharing agreement and the issue of sharing water from common rivers. Thus, you are making Bangladesh completely hostage to India.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader said Bangladeshis are being killed regularly along the border. “There was a killing yesterday (Wednesday) as well. You (PM) didn’t say a single word about this during your tour this time.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also questioned whether there is any place in the world where a country shoots dead the citizens of its friendly neighbouring country along the border.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“You (PM) have to answer these questions. You won’t be able to mislead people with what you are saying in self-defense,” Fakhrul warned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 09:57:41', '2024-06-27 09:57:41'),
(12710, 12710, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>A merchant ship reported being hit by a projectile while off Yemen\'s coast en route to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, a British maritime security agency said.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"A merchant vessel reported having been \'hit\' by a projectile\" west of Yemen\'s port city of Hodeida, Ambrey said, adding that there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The vessel was transiting south along the Red Sea when she issued a distress call,\" Ambrey said. The ship was heading to the Saudi port city of Dammam.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There was no immediate claim of responsibility but Yemen\'s Iran-backed Huthi rebels have targeted dozens of ships since November in a campaign they say is intended to signal solidarity with Palestinians during the Gaza war.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier this week a missile hit in \"close proximity\" to a vessel transiting south of the Yemeni port city of Aden, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ship proceeded on its journey with no reports of injuries or damage, said the maritime agency run by Britain\'s Royal Navy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Joint Maritime Information Center identified the vessel as the Saint Kitts- and Nevis-flagged bulk carrier Lila Lisbon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The vessel was not hit and all crew on board are safe,\" said the agency overseen by the US Navy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States in December announced a maritime security initiative to protect Red Sea shipping from Huthi attacks, which have forced commercial vessels to divert from the route that normally carries 12 percent of global trade.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since January the United States and Britain have also launched repeated strikes on Huthi targets in Yemen in response to the ship attacks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday, US military forces destroyed one Huthi radar site in a rebel-run part of Yemen, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on social media platform X. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 10:26:03', '2024-06-27 10:26:03'),
(12711, 12711, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has welcomed Bangladesh for progress in creating a roadmap to reduce the non-performing loans (NPLs).</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Priorities should focus on reducing NPLs, implementing risk-based supervision, and enhancing corporate governance. In this context, we welcome the authorities\' progress in creating a roadmap to reduce NPLs, but this process should be carefully sequenced,\" said Chris Papageorgiou, IMF Mission Chief for Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking to BSS, Chris Papageorgiou said above all, the definition for loan classification and provisioning rules should be better aligned to international standards.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This should be followed by an asset quality review to evaluate the state of banks\' balance sheets, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the same time, he said, continuing reforms to develop the domestic capital market is essential to support the country\'s long-term development goals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In this regard, we welcome the authorities\' intention to reform the primary dealers\' system as a first step towards fostering capital market development,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since the authorities\' homegrown economic reform program supported by the IMF financial arrangement was approved in January 2023, Chris Papageorgiou, however, said, the authorities have made good progress in implementing reforms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These include introducing a more flexible exchange rate framework, modernizing the monetary policy framework, rationalizing energy subsidies, while also working on supporting social protection measures to support the most vulnerable face the effects of these reforms, enhancing regulatory frameworks in the banking sector and implementing climate change-related reforms, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said, \"We welcome the authorities\' continuous commitment to comprehensive reforms to address long-standing structural issues and vulnerabilities including those related to climate change.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">&nbsp;bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"33\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 10:28:04', '2024-06-27 10:28:04'),
(12712, 12712, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Police arrested another accused in connection with the gang rape of a 19-year-old girl in a Chattogram-bound train on Thursday.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The accused, Abdur Rab Russel, was arrested from Kutubpur area in Noakhali district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">SM Shahidul Islam, officer-in-charge of Railway Police Station, said a team of police conducted a drive in Kutubpur and arrested Russel around 4:30 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With this, four people have so far been arrested in this connection.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The victim filed the case against four people with Railway Police Station on Wednesday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All the accused were staffers of SA Corporation that used to supply food to Paharika-Udayan Express train.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among them, Jamal, Sharif and Rashedul were arrested on Wednesday and police sought a seven-day remand for them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, the girl is now undergoing treatment at the One-stop Crisis Centre of&nbsp; Chattogram Medical College and Hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Paharika-Udayan Express authorities suspended all activities with SA Corporation following the incident.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the case statement, the 19-year-old girl boarded the Chattogram-bound ‘Udoyon Express’ train from Sylhet on Tuesday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She boarded the train from Bhairab and was staying at the food compartment of the train.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She was allegedly raped by four staff of SA Corporation when the train was crossing the Laksham area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-27 11:33:56', '2024-06-27 11:33:56'),
(12713, 12713, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>The BNP public rally demanding the unconditional release of its ailing Chairperson Khaleda Zia has begun in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office with the participation of thousands of leaders and activists of the party and its associate bodies.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The rally formally began around 2:42 pm on Saturday with the recitation from the holy Quran.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP leaders and activists have started gathering before the party’s Nayapaltan central office with processions carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders from different parts of Dhaka since morning braving bad weather to join the rally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among the associate bodies, former Jubo Dal General Secretary Abdul Monayem Munna staged a showdown by joining the rally with a big procession.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will address the program as the chief guest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Additional police have been deployed in Nayapaltan and its surrounding areas to maintain law and order.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on Wednesday, BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam announced a three-day countrywide program demanding the unconditional release of Khaleda Zia, who is currently undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As part of the programs, the party is holding the rally in front of its Nayapaltan central office today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the BNP leader said their party will hold rallies in all metropolitan cities on July 1 and in all district headquarters on July 3.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda Zia was rushed to Evercare Hospital in an ambulance at around 3:30 am on June 22 after suddenly falling ill at her Gulshan residence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A team of specialist doctors, led by Prof Shahabuddin Talukder, successfully implanted a pacemaker in her chest the following day. She is now receiving treatment in a cabin with CCU facilities at the hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On June 11, 2022, Khaleda Zia was diagnosed with three blockages in her heart, one of which was 95% blocked and was treated with stent placement at that time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda, a former prime minister, aged 79, has long battled various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and issues related to the kidney, lung, heart, and eyes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since her conditional release from jail in 2020, the BNP chief has been receiving treatment frequently at the hospital under a medical board headed by cardiologist Prof Shahabuddin Talukder.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda was sent to Old Dhaka Jail after a lower court sentenced her to five years\' imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on February 8, 2018. Later, she was found guilty in another corruption case the same year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Amid the coronavirus outbreak, the government temporarily freed Khaleda Zia from jail through an executive order suspending her sentence on March 25, 2020, with the condition that she stay in her Gulshan house and not leave the country. That has since been extended multiple times to keep her out of jail.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Khaleda\'s doctors have been recommending sending her abroad since she was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis in November 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">On October 26 last year, three US specialist doctors completed the hepatic procedure known as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS procedure) to stop water accretion in Khaleda Zia\'s stomach and chest, and bleeding in her liver.</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-29 09:37:03', '2024-06-29 09:37:03'),
(12714, 12714, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and its equivalent exams will begin across the country on Sunday.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of 14,50,790 students from nine General Education Boards, Madrasha Board and Technical Board are expected to sit for the exams from 9,463 educational institutions at 2,275 centres.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among them, 11,28,281 students will appear from nine General Boards, 88,076 from Madrasha Board and 2,34,433 from Technical Board.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All coaching centres will remain closed from June 29 till August 11.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Last year, a total of 13,59,342 students sat for the examinations from all boards.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some 281 students will appear for the examination from eight overseas centres.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the routine, HSC written exams will continue till August 11 and practical exams will be held from August 12 to August 21</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the examinations under the Technical Board will continue till July 18 and their practical exams will begin on July 19 and will continue till August 4.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All examinees have been asked to enter the exam centers 30 minutes before the examinations start and the concerned will be informed about the question paper code through SMS 25 minutes before the exams start.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">No one will be allowed to enter the exam centers with mobile phones, only in-charges of the exam centers are allowed to carry a mobile phone set.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, no one except examinees, center invigilators , teams of the ministry, teams of boards, local administration and upazila administration team and security personnel will be allowed in the exam centres.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quick Response Team (QRT) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) will be ready to help the examinees during their Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Munibur Rahman shared the information at a press conference on the occasion of HSC and equivalent exams at DMP Media Center on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-29 10:40:07', '2024-06-29 10:40:07'),
(12715, 12715, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh and India are working together to enhance connectivity and take it to a higher level – both physical and digital in several ways, says a senior official at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The initiatives are being taken so that the two countries can strengthen their trade connections, people-to-people connections, and several other projects that they are doing together and bring the relationship to a higher level, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We both countries are working together to enhance connectivity to a higher level,” spokesperson at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal told reporters in New Delhi on Friday during a weekly media briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding rail connectivity, a journalist wanted to know whether there will be any convenience fee or some monetary matters involved and whether there will be any paramilitary or security forces deployed when the trains will be passing by those territories.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In reply, the MEA spokesperson said, “As far as your questions on fees, on security aspects, these are very technical questions. These will be addressed as and when they come up for discussion in the technical committee and between the two governments.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s two-day state visit to New Delhi on June 21-22, Bangladesh and India signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for railway connectivity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The MoU for railway was on the connectivity between the two railways.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said connectivity continues to remain one of the central pillars of India-Bangladesh partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We believe that connectivity can transform geographical proximity into new economic opportunities, not just between India and Bangladesh, but also for the entire region,” he said while briefing the media after the state visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this respect, he said, they are starting a new passenger train service between Rajshahi and Kolkata while trial run for a goods train on Bangladesh railway from a place called Gede-Darshana to Haldibari-Chilahati cross-border interchange point is planned for next month sometime.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This will also help sub-regional connectivity with Bhutan,” said the Indian Foreign Secretary, adding that</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There are already about six cross-border railway links but besides the importance of cross-border railway linkages, Kwatra said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Another crucial aspect of this railway connectivity is the transit that they afford between different parts of India through the territory of Bangladesh and the discussions today focused on that, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“So it\'s effectively a connectivity paradigm that actually benefits both the countries, both the societies, both the economies very, very extensively,” Kwatra said.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-06-29 13:21:08', '2024-06-29 13:21:08'),
(12716, 12716, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud has said Bangladesh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through a joint taskforce will work to protect Bangladeshis workers going to Saudi Arabia from fraud, making sure that no one is cheated.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was speaking at an opinion exchange meeting with expatriates on Monday evening at the Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister said there has been a fruitful discussion with the Saudi Foreign Minister regarding the joint taskforce to bring more transparency to manpower migration to Saudi Arabia from Bangladesh and stop the harassment of workers by groups with vested interest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The formation of the taskforce is a reflection of their goodwill in this regard, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister\'s Private Industry and Investment Advisor Salman F. Rahman delivered speech as special guest at the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Hasan highlighted the overall picture of the country\'s development activities under the leadership of the Awami League government and said, \"The whole world is praising the incredible development and progress.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Daughter of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is leading independent Bangladesh,” he said, adding that the Saudi government also praised Bangladesh’s growth under her leadership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Stating that the contribution of expatriates to the national economy is immense and important, Hasan Mahmud also talked about incentives for them to send remittances, account maintenance in foreign currency through online offshore banking management, universal pension facilities, and expatriates’ welfare.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister directed them to comply with the local laws and regulations and urged the expatriates to remain alert and proactive against anti-state propaganda.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also directed to improve the quality of consular services of the embassy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Issues of recruitment of more skilled Bangladeshi professionals in Saudi Arabia, facilitation of Akama renewal, cultural exchange, direct flight from Chattogram to Riyadh, wage earners bond, health insurance for expatriates, arrangements for repatriation of deceased expatriates, legal assistance, passport renewal through embassy, NID correction, and family visa were also addressed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister\'s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F. Rahman highlighted various investment opportunities for expatriate Bangladeshis including offshore banking.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He called upon the expatriates living in Saudi Arabia to create public awareness so that Bangladeshis who want to go to Saudi Arabia do not fall victim to fraud.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Salman said the people who want to go to Saudi Arabia must verify things including recruiting company before going to Saudi Arabia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Monday discussed ways for increased Saudi investment in special economic zones and offshore banking systems in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The issues were discussed at the second Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia Political Consultations held in Riyadh. Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud led the Bangladesh delegation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Minister Hasan discussed with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud wide-ranging issues of regional and global development and of bilateral, economic, manpower and energy partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The high-level meeting was also attended by Salman F. Rahman, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Private Industry and Investment; Additional Foreign Secretary (Bilateral-East and West) and Inspector General of Missions Dr Md Nazrul Islam; Bangladesh Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Md Javed Patwari; Director General (West Asia) Md Shafiqur Rahman; Director General (Foreign Minister\'s Office) Md Arif Nazmul Hasan and Saudi officials.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They reviewed the entire spectrum of partnership between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-02 10:08:18', '2024-07-02 10:08:18'),
(12717, 12717, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is going to return to her Gulshan residence Tuesday evening after receiving treatment for 10 days at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"She (Khaleda) will be discharged from the hospital today (Tuesday) as per the advice of the medical board. The board has taken the decision after reviewing her health condition and latest medical reports,\" said AZM Zahid Hossain, her personal physician.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">He said the BNP chairperson will now be provided with proper treatment at home.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said the BNP chief is scheduled to leave the hospital at 5 pm for her residence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Khaleda Zia was rushed to Evercare Hospital in an ambulance on June 22 after suddenly falling ill at her Gulshan residence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">A team of specialist doctors, led by Prof Shahabuddin Talukder, successfully implanted a pacemaker in her chest the following day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Khaleda, a former prime minister, aged 79, has long battled various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and issues related to the kidney, lung, heart, and eyes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Since her conditional release from jail in 2020, the BNP chief has been receiving treatment frequently at the hospital under a medical board headed by cardiologist Prof Shahabuddin Talukder.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Khaleda was sent to Old Dhaka Jail after a lower court sentenced her to five years\' imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on February 8, 2018. Later, she was found guilty in another corruption case the same year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Amid the coronavirus outbreak, the government temporarily freed Khaleda Zia from jail through an executive order suspending her sentence on March 25, 2020, with the condition that she stays in her Gulshan house and not leave the country. That has since been extended multiple times to keep her out of jail.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Khaleda\'s doctors have been recommending sending her abroad since she was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis in November 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">On October 26 last year, three US specialist doctors completed the hepatic procedure known as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS procedure) to stop water accretion in Khaleda Zia\'s stomach and chest, and bleeding in her liver.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-02 10:33:08', '2024-07-02 10:33:08'),
(12718, 12718, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>In response to the High Court\'s decision to reinstate the quota system in government jobs, students from several universities and colleges jointly blocked Dhaka’s Shahbagh intersection.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier in the day, around 2:45 pm, students from Dhaka University staged a protest rally in front of the Central Library. The group marched to the Raju Sculpture on campus before proceeding to Shahbagh to join other demonstrators.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thousands of students from Dhaka University, Jagannath University, Dhaka College, Eden College, and other nearby institutions participated in the protest. They shouted slogans against the quota system, demanding its cancellation in government job recruitment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-02 11:05:36', '2024-07-02 11:05:36'),
(12719, 12719, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday asked all concerned to take necessary preparations in advance to face probable floods in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She made the directive chairing the 1st meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) in the new fiscal year 2024-2025 (FY25) at the NEC Conference Room in the city.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“She said floods may hit (the country). We’ve to be prepared so that we can take quick measures if floods affect (the country),” said Planning Minister Abdus Salam at a press briefing after the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister said the prime minister, based on the forecast of Bangladesh Meteorological Department and the experts concerned, apprehended that a possible flood may sweep over the country in the coming days possibly in August.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Replying to a question over the directive, Planning Secretary Satyajit Karmakar said the PM had said that there is a possibility of floods in August due to a growing trend of rainfall in the country and rise of water upstream of major rivers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the PM directed all concerned including the civil administration and field administration to take necessary preparations to face the floods in a bid to protect the people of the country from the impacts and devastation of floods.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the projects, the senior secretary of Planning Division said the Ecnec approved a total of 11 projects involving an overall estimated cost of Tk 5,459.87 crore.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Of the total cost, Tk 5,214.34 crore will come from the national exchequer, Tk 140.44 crore from external sources as project assistance and&nbsp; the rest Tk 105.09 crore from the fund of an organisation concerned, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 11 projects include seven fresh schemes and four revised ones, said the secretary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-02 13:48:35', '2024-07-02 13:48:35');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12720, 12720, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Survivors of India\'s deadliest stampede in over a decade on Wednesday recalled the horror of being crushed at a vastly overcrowded Hindu religious gathering that left 121 people dead.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A police report said more than 250,000 people attended the event in northern India\'s Uttar Pradesh state, more than triple the 80,000 organisers had permission for.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Wednesday morning, hours after the event, discarded clothing and lost shoes were scattered across the muddy site, an open field alongside a highway.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">People fell on top of each other as they tumbled down a slope into a water-logged ditch, witnesses said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Everyone -- the entire crowd, including women and children -- all left from the event site at once,\" said police officer Sheela Maurya, 50, who had been on duty Tuesday as a popular Hindu preacher delivered a sermon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There wasn\'t enough space, and everyone just fell on top of each other.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Almost all of the dead were women, along with seven children killed and one man.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Officials suggested the stampede was triggered when worshippers tried to gather soil from the footsteps of the preacher, while others blamed a dust storm for sparking panic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some fainted from the force of the crowd, before falling and being trampled upon, unable to move.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Uttar Pradesh\'s state disaster management centre, the Office of the Relief Commissioner, released a list of the dead on Wednesday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It said 121 people had been killed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>- \'Crushed\' -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Maurya, who had been on duty since early morning on Tuesday in the sweltering humid heat at the preacher\'s ceremony, was among the injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I tried to help some women, but even I fainted and was crushed under the crowd,\" she told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I don\'t know, but someone pulled me out, and I don\'t remember much.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Deadly incidents are common at places of worship during major religious festivals in India, the biggest of which prompt millions of devotees to make pilgrimages to holy sites.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The main highway next to the field was packed with people and vehicles for kilometres, there were far too many people here,\" said Hori Lal, 45, who lives in Phulrai Mughalgadi village, near the site of the stampede.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Once people started falling to the side and getting crushed, there was just chaos.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chaitra V., divisional commissioner of Aligarh city in Uttar Pradesh state, initially said panic began when \"attendees were exiting the venue when a dust storm blinded their vision, leading to a melee\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh told reporters after visiting the site that worshippers had scrambled to get close to the preacher.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I am told that people rushed to touch his feet and tried to collect soil, and a stampede took place,\" Singh said, according to the Indian Express daily.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Many people fell in a nearby drain\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Maurya said she had worked at several political rallies and large events in the past but had \"never seen such huge numbers\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It was very hot, even I fell there and I survived with great difficulty\", she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>- \'Heart-rending\' -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At dawn on Wednesday, four unidentified bodies lay on the floor of a makeshift morgue at the hospital in the nearby town of Hathras.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ram Nivas, 35, a farmer, said he was searching for his sister-in-law Rumla, 54, who was missing after the crush.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We haven\'t been able to find her anywhere,\" Nivas said, adding he had visited all the nearby hospitals throughout the night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We just hope she\'s still alive,\" he said quietly. \"Maybe just lost.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the hospital\'s emergency ward, Sandeep Kumar, 29, sat next to his injured sister, Shikha Kumar, 22.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"After the event ended, everyone wanted to exit quickly, and that is what led to the stampede,\" Sandeep said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"She saw people fainting, getting crushed.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced compensation of $2,400 to the next of kin of those who died and $600 to those injured in the \"tragic incident\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Droupadi Murmu said the deaths were \"heart-rending\" and offered her \"deepest condolences\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is also a Hindu monk, expressed his condolences to the relatives of those killed and ordered an investigation into the deaths, his office said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Religious gatherings in India have a grim track record of deadly incidents caused by poor crowd management and safety lapses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2008, 224 pilgrims were killed and more than 400 were injured in a stampede at a hilltop temple in the northern city of Jodhpur.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 09:22:07', '2024-07-03 09:22:07'),
(12721, 12721, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader will hold a meeting with the leaders of the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers Association on Thursday as the public university teachers continue their strike against a new pension scheme for the third consecutive day on Wednesday.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The federation’s Secretary General and President of Dhaka University Teachers’ Association Prof Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan confirmed it on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Obaidul Quader spoke to them over holding a meeting on Thursday morning but the schedule has not been fixed yet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked whether the movement will continue, he replied that they won’t go back to work until their demands are met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The indefinite strike of teachers protesting their inclusion in Prattay scheme stepped on the third consecutive day on Wednesday, suspending all academic and administrative activities at universities across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 09:25:23', '2024-07-03 09:25:23'),
(12722, 12722, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Over seven lakh people in 13 upazilas of Sylhet district are grappling with the third wave of flooding, even before the effects of the second wave have fully subsided. Heavy rains and upstream water flow on Monday have inundated several upazilas, though Sylhet city remains unaffected so far.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this latest flooding, 97 unions across 13 upazilas have been submerged, leaving over 700,000 people stranded. Approximately 8,351 residents are currently taking refuge in 189 shelters, according to the Sylhet district administration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All upazilas in Sylhet have been impacted by the floods, which are attributed to hill torrents and excessive rainfall. The Surma and Kushiyara rivers, among others, are flowing above danger levels at multiple points.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Water Development Board of Sylhet reported that at 6 pm on Tuesday, the Surma River at Kanaighat point was 112 cm above the danger level. At the Sylhet point, the water level was at 10.79 cm, just below the danger threshold of 10.80 cm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Kushiyara River’s water levels were 89 cm above the danger level at Amalshid point, 97 cm at Fenchuganj point, 26 cm at Sheola point, and 17 cm at Sherpur point. Meanwhile, the water levels of the Sari, Sarigowain, and Lova rivers have slightly decreased.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Third wave of flooding devastates Sylhet, affecting over 7 lakh people&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Shah Md. Sajib Hossain, assistant meteorologist at the Sylhet Meteorological Department, reported 14 mm of rainfall from 6 am to 6 pm on Tuesday, with heavy rain expected to continue until today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Sheikh Russel Hasan stated that the possibility of a third wave of floods had been anticipated, prompting upazila executive officers to prepare in advance following directives from higher authorities. He assured that relief centers are ready and that the government is fully prepared to handle the situation with caution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sylhet previously experienced severe flooding on May 27 due to heavy rains and hill torrents from upstream, which had largely subsided by June 8. However, continuous rain from June 17 led to a second wave of flooding. Before recovery efforts could be completed, the third wave struck on July 1, further exacerbating the situation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 09:39:48', '2024-07-03 09:39:48'),
(12723, 12723, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday describer Bangladesh-India relationship as “model” and “example” for others as both countries have resolved many problems through dialogue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh and India have resolved many problems through dialogue. This relationship could be a model and exemplary for many other neighbouring countries,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said this while visiting Chief of the Naval Staff of India Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi called on her at her Sangsad Bhaban Office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Press Secretary Md Nayeemul Islam Khan briefed the reporters after the call on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina referred to the solution of land boundaries and maritime boundaries between Bangladesh and India as the example.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This example has been created in combination with this (solution)”, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM recalled the Indian contribution during the War of Liberation of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We always remember the assistances and contribution of Indian people during our war of liberation”, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chief of the Naval Staff of India Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said that he feels like at home here in Bangladesh as there is little difference between Bangladesh and India in terms of nature.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About cooperation between Navy of both counties, Admiral Tripathi said: “if Bangladesh Navy seeks any cooperation from Indian Navy, then they have no option to say no to Bangladesh Navy,”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Indian Chief of the Naval Staff also visited the Bangladesh Military Museum (BMM) and called it as world class expressing that he is highly impressed visiting the BMM.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It is educative, effective. . . and he is carying back some ideas which he would provide to their organisation so that they can replicate those.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mentioning that many naval officers of Bangladesh are receiving training in India, Admiral Tripathi said that he told his counterpart that Bangladesh could send more officers if he wants.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The press Secretary said the premier and Indian Naval Chief opined that both Bangladesh and India hold same mentality regarding keeping the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean “peaceful”, and both countries would work together as they don’t expect any disturbance in this region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the meeting, the Indian navy chief also mentioned about his visit to the Bangabandhu Museum in Dhanmodi-32, and became overwhelmed after seeing the sacrifice of the martyrs and contribution of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Chief of the Naval Staff of India also praised the development of Bangladesh under the leadership of Hasina.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 09:46:12', '2024-07-03 09:46:12'),
(12724, 12724, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader will hold a meeting with the leaders of the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers Association on Thursday as the public university teachers continue their strike against a new pension scheme for the third consecutive day on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The federation’s Secretary General and President of Dhaka University Teachers’ Association Prof Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan confirmed it on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Obaidul Quader spoke to them over holding a meeting on Thursday morning but the schedule has not been fixed yet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked whether the movement will continue, he replied that they won’t go back to work until their demands are met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The indefinite strike of teachers protesting their inclusion in Prattay scheme stepped on the third consecutive day on Wednesday, suspending all academic and administrative activities at universities across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 09:55:07', '2024-07-03 09:55:07'),
(12725, 12725, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>The indefinite strike by teachers and employees of public universities continues for the third consecutive day today, demanding their exclusion from the ‘Prattay’ pension scheme.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers Association called for a boycott of classes, examinations, and administrative work starting Monday, protesting the implementation of Prattay, a new pension scheme introduced by the National Pension Authority. The announcement was made during a press conference on Dhaka University campus.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Dhaka University Teachers Association (DUTA) also issued a notice to the university’s teachers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a result, all classes and exams, including regular, evening, professional, online, and offline programs, have been suspended at public universities nationwide. This includes institutions such as Dhaka University, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Chittagong University, Rajshahi University, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Jagannath University, Jahangirnagar University, and Khulna University.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition to academic activities, administrative offices, including chairman offices, hall provost offices, research centers, institutes, the central library, dean offices, computer labs, and seminar rooms, remain closed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under the banner of Officers-Employees Oikya Parishad, DU officers and employees have called for a strike and protest program, demanding the cancellation of what they called a “discriminatory” notification related to the Universal Pension Scheme. Employees and officers of other public universities have also joined the strike.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Universal Pension Scheme, which was introduced on August 17, 2023, includes four schemes: Prabash, Pragati, Surokkha, and Samata. The Prattay scheme was later introduced specifically for officers and employees of all autonomous and state-owned organizations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 10:04:42', '2024-07-03 10:04:42'),
(12726, 12726, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Bangladesh bowler Taskin Ahmed admitted to missing the team bus before a crucial T20 World Cup match against India. However, he denied that this incident was the reason he was not selected to play in the match.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier this week, a private TV station reported that Taskin was late to wake up and missed the team bus, indicating that this was the reason behind the team management leaving him out of the match against India.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh team management included Jaker Ali in that match to replace Taskin. The fact that Jaker is not a pace bowler like Taskin indicates that the team planned to include an extra batter to strengthen the batting line.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I would like everyone to know that most of the news and information being spread are nothing more than rumors, and I would hope that the fans treat it as such,” Taskin wrote in a statement on his social media handle.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Team accepted Taskin\'s apology for oversleeping on day of crucial World Cup match against India&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said that he reached the venue at 9:40 am local time, 20 minutes before the toss. He then sang the national anthem with the team before the match, which began at 10:30 am local time.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It’s quite unfortunate that these so-called sports journalists are printing news based on rumors and without verification, trying to tarnish my image as a player of the national cricket team,” Taskin’s statement further reads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I know I made an honest mistake by not getting on the team bus on time, but I was at the stadium before the toss,” it adds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Taskin also said he would take legal action to address such “frivolous issues like this” in the future “to ensure no one tries to malign my reputation or integrity as a sportsman or a human being”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, an earlier statement by Shakib Al Hasan painted a different picture. The Bangladesh allrounder said Taskin reached the venue just 10 minutes before the match, indicating that this was the reason behind leaving Taskin out of the playing XI.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh won three matches, their most in a single edition of a T20 World Cup, out of the seven they played. However, they failed to win a crucial match against Afghanistan, which could have secured their first-ever semifinal berth. That defeat nearly erased all the good that the Bangladesh team has done in the World Cup.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 10:20:14', '2024-07-03 10:20:14'),
(12727, 12727, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday&nbsp; said that medical equipment for public hospitals must be procured considering the real needs of the patients.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Appropriate usage of the medical equipment has to be ensured,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also asked the authorities concerned to be careful in making decision on the purchase medical equipment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said this while witnessing a presentation on health sector transformation in the establishment of universal health care at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister\'s Deputy Press Secretary KM Shakhawat Moon told reporters that the PM has given necessary directions after observing the presentation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In her remarks the prime minister highlighted Bangabandhu\'s groundbreaking steps to advance the health sector after independence and said that the father of the nation gave the highest importance to the health services of the common people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that the great development that has taken place in the health sector like every sector in Bangladesh in the last one and a half decades.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that her government has brought health services to the doorsteps of the common people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She emphasised on sustaining the achievements of the current government and moving forward in the health sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Samant Lal Sen, State Minister&nbsp; Rokeya Sultana, President of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Health Ministry Dr. AFM Ruhal Haque, Prime Minister\'s Advisor on Private Industry and Investment Salman Fazlur Rahman, PM’s Principal Secretary Md. Tofazzel Hossain Mia, Health Secretary Md. Jahangir Alam and Prime Minister\'s Press Secretary M Nayeemul Islam Khan were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-03 13:40:31', '2024-07-03 13:40:31'),
(12728, 12728, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today highly praised the Bangladeshi workforce in Oman, saying they are contributing to the socioeconomic development of both the countries.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Bangladeshi workers have contribution to your (Oman) economy as well as Bangladesh. Both economies are getting benefit from the (hard labour of) these workforce,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier made this remark while Oman Ambassador here Abdul Ghaffar Bin Abdul Karim Al-Bulushi called on her at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Oman envoy echoed the prime minister\'s comment about the contribution of Bangladeshi workforce, saying it is true that they (Bangladeshi workforce) are working for both the economies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Press Secretary Md Nayeemul Islam Khan briefed the reporters after the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to Khan, the ambassador mentioned that Oman is maintaining 7 percent GDP growth for a long time and expected to attain double-digit level growth.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The GDP growth might be doubled in the coming days,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier and the envoy both also discussed the issue of supporting Bangladesh from Oman side to supplement Bangladesh\'s efforts for the post LDC period.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the Visa issuing restriction on Bangladeshis, Al-Bulushi said that actually, about a million of Bangladeshi manpower is working in their labour market.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s not particularly for Bangladesh, we periodically review the labour market to point out the labour demand. Based on that review, sometimes we often put suspension on the countries that have excessive number of manpower. For easing the suspension you have to wait for the next review,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy said the way of restriction seems that the blanket visa restriction was applied on Bangladesh. \"But actually it was not like that. Except the manpower visa, all other visas like family visa and tourist visa are open,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said that some ten categories\' Oman visas for Bangladeshis are open now.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this connection, the ambassador called for sending a request letter from Bangladesh foreign ministry to his government, saying it will enable him well to discuss the matter with his higher authorities in favour of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'ve started working on the issue so the issuance of working visa can start soon,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About fertiliser import, the ambassador said that his government proposed to make the arrangement government-to-government basis.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister replied that Bangladesh government would examine the proposal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Oman ambassador highly appreciated the leadership of Sheikh Hasina and congratulated her for reelection.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said it would be good that Bangladesh will graduate under the able leadership of Sheikh Hasina, saying \"Bangabandhu must be looking at you and he must be proud of you.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Oman ambassador, as well, presented a gift, Replica of Omanis traditional boat, to the prime minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On that gift it stated: \"To the Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who carried the torch of the great Bangabandhu with resolve and courage with compliments of the Ambassador of Oman, Abdul Ghaffar Bin Abdul Karim Al-Bulushi.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador-at-large Mohammad Ziauddin and PM\'s Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-04 09:27:52', '2024-07-04 09:27:52'),
(12729, 12729, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today (July 04, 2024) said that it is solely Bangladesh’s sovereign right to decide on the Teesta project, and that this decision must be respected.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Whatever project regarding the Teesta river is truly on Bangladesh’s side to make a decision. And the decision has to be respected,” he told diplomatic correspondents at a DCAB Talk, responding to a question on the Teesta river that Bangladesh shares with India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event at Jatiya Press Club ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China next week. DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib and General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu also spoke at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese ambassador stated that the visit will outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador Yao mentioned that China had made its proposal on Teesta following Bangladesh\'s request and is open to accepting any decision. “We are open. It’s purely on Bangladesh to decide what to do at the next stage.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India also expressed interest and announced that a technical team would soon visit Bangladesh to discuss the Teesta river conservation and management issues.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On June 25, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that the government would accept the financing proposal for the Teesta Masterplan Project based on what is most beneficial for the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have undertaken the Teesta project. China and India have given separate proposals (for financing it). We must accept the proposal which will be more beneficial for the people of our country,” she said at a press conference at her official residence, Ganabhaban, regarding the outcome of her recent visit to India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing a separate question, Ambassador Yao emphasized the importance of good relations between Bangladesh and its neighbouring countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“You know, it is a success of your national foreign policy. So, we want to see good relations. And also, we want our relations to be playing a positive role and be viewed positively by the other countries. So that is a win-win cooperation and will benefit all parties,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He dismissed any notion of tension between India and China regarding this project, stating, “I don\'t see any tension. We want to see the project start very soon. Since I know almost 30 million people need this project, we just want to see if it can be studied and completed very soon.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the development of southern Bangladesh, the ambassador mentioned that it is a proposal from the Bangladesh side and that China could play a significant role in aiding this development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It is a good opportunity for China to get involved in the internal development of Bangladesh and we will have a very active and positive approach to that proposal,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador Yao also praised Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts in sheltering over 1 million Rohingya refugees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“China is actively pursuing all parties involved in the Myanmar conflict to achieve a ceasefire and engage in dialogue, thus paving the way for the repatriation at an early date,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy added that China is ready to support Bangladesh in the multilateral arena, jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promoting regional and international peace and stability.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He highlighted cooperation opportunities in areas such as education, media, infrastructure, trade promotion, investment, agricultural imports from Bangladesh, and the digital economy during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s upcoming visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador Yao noted that the Bangladesh-China relationship is at its best and is embracing tremendous development opportunities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Next year, our two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. How to further elevate bilateral relations, expand the scope of exchanges, tap the potential for cooperation, and make the relationship between our two countries and peoples better, deeper, and closer is a task that requires joint efforts from both sides,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He emphasized that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China will be a milestone in bilateral relations, building on past achievements and forging ahead.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“This visit will surely inject vibrant impetus into bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, promoting new achievements in the strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Bangladesh, and elevating the relationship to a new height,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy highlighted that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s visit to China is highly anticipated by all. “This visit is expected to take the helm for the growth of the China-Bangladesh relationship for the next five years or even longer.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will meet with Chinese leaders, sign a number of cooperation documents, and jointly announce major cooperation achievements. Through this visit, both sides will firmly support each other and further deepen communication at all levels, he mentioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-04 09:35:07', '2024-07-04 09:35:07'),
(12730, 12730, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has upheld for now a High Court (HC) judgment that declared illegal a 2018 government circular abolishing the 30 percent quota system for the Freedom Fighters\' children in the ninth to 13th grades of government jobs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Not today,\" the apex court bench headed by Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan said today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Appellate Division after the hearing told the state to file a leave to appeal petition after the release of the full text of the High Court judgment that was pronounced on June 5, 2024.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Let\'s keep the High Court judgment as it is for now. You file a regular petition and we would hear that,\" the apex court said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier advocate on record Jahirul Islam pleaded to keep the matter as \"not today\", saying the senior lawyer Mansurul Haque Chowdhury, designated to move the case, is absent today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Attorney General AM Amin Uddin stood for the state today, while senior lawyer Motahar Hossain Sazu argued for a writ filed in this regard.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A High Court division bench of Justice KM Kamrul Kader and Justice Khizir Hayat pronounced the judgment on June 5, paving the way for reinstating the 30 percent freedom fighter quota in government service. The court came up with the judgment, declaring absolute a rule issued earlier.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government in 2018 through that circular said direct recruitment in all government jobs in 9th grade (old first class) and from 10th to 13th grade (old second class) will be completely based on merit, abolishing the existing quota system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Seven people, including Muktijoddhar Sontan o Projonmo central command council president Ohidul Islam Tushar, filed the writ with the High Court, challenging the legality of the circular.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The High Court after that issued the rule asking the authorities concerned to reply as to why the circular shall not be declared illegal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"42\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-04 09:42:30', '2024-07-04 09:42:30'),
(12731, 12731, '<div><br></div><div>In the AJFB Star Award 2023-2024, Babul Uddin has been honored as the best advertising director. The Artist Journalist Foundation of Bangladesh (AJFB) organized a grand ceremony on Sunday, 26 May, 2024, at the ATN Bangla Auditorium of the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) to recognize outstanding contributions in various branches of culture, presenting lifetime honors and awards.</div><div><br></div><div>The event organized by the Artist Journalist Foundation of Bangladesh (AJFB) was attended by chief guest Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, Chairman of ATN Bangla and ATN News, and renowned film director Kazi Hayat. During the event, Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman presented the Best advertising director Award to Babul Uddin for his special contributions to the field of TVC.</div><div><br></div><div>Babul Uddin expressed his gratitude by respectfully greeting and thanking everyone present for deciding to honor him. He also extended his continuous love to his countless well-wishers.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding the honor, he further stated that an honor is a commemorative recognition of a person\'s work, which encourages them to perform better and increases their responsibility towards their work. He committed to contributing to meeting the expectations of everyone and the audience.</div><div><br></div><div>The event was also attended by former successful Railway Minister Mujibul Haque Mujib, AJFB\'s founding president Abul Hossain Majumder, AJFB President Faruq Hossain Majumder, General Secretary actor Nirab, among many others.</div><div><br></div><div>The ceremony awarded lifetime honors and recognition for outstanding contributions in various cultural branches. Lifetime honors were awarded to theater and film personality Dilara Zaman and music personality Ferdous Wahid.</div><div><br></div><div>Special honors were received by film personalities Rozina, Shabnam Parvin, Amit Hasan, Rajib Moni Das, Nirab Hossain, Momin Sarkar, Elina Shammi, Polash Moni Das, Shirin Shila, and singer Balam.</div><div><br></div><div>bmbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Desk News', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-04 13:30:44', '2024-07-04 13:33:50'),
(12732, 12732, '<div><br></div><div><b>Director Polash Moni Das has been appointed as the judge for the upcoming reality show \"Jiboner Golpo Bolun, Bari Jitun.\" This humanitarian show, initiated by the esteemed Mia Abdullah Wazed, aims to provide a platform for various industrial workers across the country. The show focuses on helpless and homeless individuals who are either currently employed or retired from an industry, showcasing their diverse experiences and talents. \"Jiboner Golpo Bolun, Bari Jitun\" is set to air soon on ATN Bangla, highlighting the lives of these talented and vulnerable individuals.</b></div><div><br></div><div>Polash Moni Das expressed his thoughts on the initiative, stating, \"I have previously served as a judge for several reality shows. However, amidst thousands of entertainment shows, I first extend my respect to the living legend Mia Abdullah Wazed Sir for taking such a unique humanitarian initiative. He has stepped forward with a humanitarian approach alongside entertainment. I hope the audience will enjoy this distinct entertainment through the program.\"</div><div>Speaking further about the show, Judge Polash Moni Das added, \"I feel proud thinking that such a program will be a witness to time. In my knowledge, I have not seen such a humanitarian reality show in the past. Therefore, I wish continuous success to everyone involved in this show.\"</div><div><br></div><div>It is noteworthy that this is not the first time Polash Moni Das has served as the head chief judge for various reality shows. The most notable among them was the Bavasi International Film Festival 2022-2023.</div><div><br></div><div>According to sources, the reality show will be broadcast very soon on ATN Bangla TV.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/mrf</div>', NULL, 'Desk News', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-04 15:39:06', '2024-07-04 15:52:56');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12733, 12733, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Keir Starmer on Friday will become Britain\'s new prime minister, as his centre-left opposition Labour party swept to a landslide general election victory, ending 14 years of right-wing Conservative rule.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Labour Party has won this general election, and I have called Sir Keir Starmer to congratulate him on his victory,\" a sombre-looking Rishi Sunak said after he was re-elected to his seat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Today, power will change hands in a peaceful and orderly manner with goodwill on all sides,\" the Tory leader added, calling the results \"sobering\" and saying he took responsibility for the defeat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At a triumphant party rally in central London, Starmer, 61, told cheering activists that \"change begins here\" and promised a \"decade of national renewal\", putting \"country first, party second\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But he cautioned that change would not come overnight, even as Labour snatched a swathe of Tory seats around the country, including from at least eight Cabinet members.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was the highest-profile scalp of the night so far, with other big names, including senior minister Penny Mordaunt and leading Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg also defeated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Finance minister Jeremy Hunt hung on to remain an MP, but only by 891 votes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>- \'Keir we go\' -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Labour raced past the 326 seats needed to secure an overall majority in the 650-seat parliament at 0400 GMT, with the final result expected later on Friday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An exit poll for UK broadcasters published after polls closed at 2100 GMT on Thursday put Labour on course for a return to power for the first time since 2010, with 410 seats and a 170-seat majority.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Tories would only get 131 seats in the House of Commons -- a record low -- with the right-wing vote apparently spliced by Nigel Farage\'s anti-immigration Reform UK party, which could bag 13 seats.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In another boost for the centrists, the smaller opposition Liberal Democrats would get 61 seats, ousting the Scottish National Party on 10 as the third-biggest party.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The projected overall result bucks a rightward trend among Britain\'s closest Western allies, with the far right in France eyeing power and Donald Trump looking set for a return in the United States.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">British newspapers all focused on Labour\'s impending return to power for the first time since Gordon Brown was ousted by David Cameron in 2010.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Keir We Go,\" headlined the Labour-supporting Daily Mirror. \"Britain sees red,\" said The Sun, the influential Rupert Murdoch tabloid, which swung behind Labour for the first time since 2005.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>- Tory future -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sunak will tender his resignation to head of state King Charles III, with the monarch then asking Starmer, as the leader of the largest party in parliament, to form a government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Tories worst previous election result is 156 seats in 1906. Former leader William Hague told Times Radio the projections would be \"a catastrophic result in historic terms\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But Tim Bale, politics professor at Queen Mary, University of London, said it was \"not as catastrophic as some were predicting\" and the Tories would now need to decide how best to fight back.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Right-wing former interior minister Suella Braverman and Mordaunt, who was leader of the House of Commons, both said the Tories failed because they had not listened to the British people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But Brexit champion Farage, who finally succeeded in becoming an MP at the eighth time of asking, has made no secret of his aim to take over the party.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There is a massive gap on the centre-right of British politics and my job is to fill it,\" he said after a comfortable win in Clacton, eastern England.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- To-do list -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Labour\'s resurgence is a stunning turnaround from five years ago, when hard-left former leader Jeremy Corbyn took the party to its worst defeat since 1935 in an election dominated by Brexit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Starmer took over in early 2020 and set about moving the party back to the centre, making it a more electable proposition and purging infighting and anti-Semitism that lost it support.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Opinion polls have put Labour consistently 20 points ahead of the Tories for almost the past two years, giving an air of inevitability about a Labour win -- the first since Tony Blair in 2005.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Starmer is facing a daunting to-do list, with economic growth anaemic, public services overstretched and underfunded due to swingeing cuts, and households squeezed financially.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He has also promised a return of political integrity, after a chaotic period of five Tory prime ministers, including three in four months, scandal and sleaze. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-05 11:00:41', '2024-07-05 11:00:41'),
(12734, 12734, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Emiliano Martínez saved Argentina\'s bid for a second straight Copa America title after the Albiceleste conceded a tying goal to Ecuador in second-half injury time.</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Martínez stopped shootout attempts by Ángel Mena and Alan Minda, and Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals with a 4-2 victory on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw Thursday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I wasn’t ready to go home,” Martínez said. “This team deserved to advance. They complicated us a lot. They played a great match, very physical. We knew they were one of the top rivals in Copa America.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lionel Messi, returning from a leg injury that caused him to miss Argentina’s group-stage finale, put the first Albiceleste penalty kick off the crossbar, but the Albiceleste recovered and Nicolás Otamendi beat Alexander Domínguez with the winning kick.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Our goalkeeper came up clutch,\" Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said through an interpreter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Seeking its third straight major title, Argentina advanced to the semifinals for the fifth straight Copa America and will play Venezuela or Canada on Tuesday at East Rutherford, New Jersey. Argentina is looking to win a record 16th Copa America championship.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US eliminated from Copa America with 1-0 loss to Uruguay, increasing pressure to fire Berhalter</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Playing in front of a pro-Argentinian crowd of 69,456 at NRG Stadium, Lisandro Martínez gave the Albiceleste a 35th-minute lead following Messi\'s corner kick.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ecuador’s Enner Valencia put a penalty kick off a post in the 62nd minute after a hand ball by Rodrigo De Paul, but Kevin Rodríguez tied it in the first minute of second-half stoppage time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With Argentina going first in the shootout, Messi tried a Panenka and hit the crossbar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Martínez, the goalkeeper in Argentina’s shootout win over France in the 2022 World Cup final, stopped Mena by diving to his left and batting the ball with his trailing hand. He denied Minda by leaping right, then followed the save with a short dance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Julián Álvarez and Alexis Mac Allister converted to put Argentina ahead 2-0, and John Yeboah made Ecuador’s third attempt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gonzalo Montiel gave Argentina a 3-1 lead, Jordy Caicedo converted to keep Ecuador alive and Otamendi got the winner, tucking the ball inside the post just past the outstretched arm of Domínguez.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite the victory, Scaloni said he “did not enjoy the win.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have reached the semis, and given the great level of performance of every national team, I think it’s a great achievement,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lisandro Martínez had put Argentina ahead in the 35th minute with a header after Mac Allister headed on Messi’s corner kick. Rodríguez scored when he headed in John Yeboah’s cross.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The quarterfinals had us playing against the most difficult opponent, and I thought we delivered well,” Ecuador coach Félix Sánchez Bas said through an interpreter. “We showed this team can compete against any opponent.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Under Copa America regulations, the match went straight from the end of regulation to a shootout, without extra time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Messi, who sustained the injury on June 25 against Chile, got a loud ovation when he entered the field 45 minutes before kickoff. He remained without a goal in three Copa games this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I think he finished the match well,” Scaloni said. “We asked him how he was feeling for the last time four minutes before the end.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-05 11:05:10', '2024-07-05 11:05:10'),
(12735, 12735, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said her government has taken measures to make armed forces more developed and global standard as they are the symbol of Bangladesh\'s sovereignty.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Armed forces are the symbol of our sovereignty---we have already taken measures to make the armed forces, formed at the hand of my father, more developed and international standard,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier was addressing as the chief guest a programme marking the 49th founding anniversary of the President Guard Regiment (PGR) at its headquarters inside Dhaka Cantonment here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government is transforming armed forces into a modern force with global standard arms, ammunition, vehicles and required equipment alongside giving proper training to its personnel at home and abroad.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also said that she had built the National Defence College in 1998 for providing the armed forces personnel with modern and improved training after assuming office for the first time in 1996.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To this end, she said they built the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT) in 1999.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier went on saying that they also built armed forces medical colleges alongside recruiting women to the forces for the first time in 2000.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She continued that they are implementing the Armed Forces Goal-2030 in line with the Defence Policy formulated by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1974.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh believes in peace and its armed forces are contributing the most to the UN peacekeeping missions, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladeshi peacekeepers have won the hearts of the people of those countries where they work for establishing peace, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So, I am really very proud of you,\" she continued.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister thanked the PGR personnel as they are ensuring security to her defying storm and rain risking their lives and prayed for their safety, security and wellbeing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I know my life is full of risks. They, who have come to secure my life, are also taking risks,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She added that the PGR personnel are performing their professional duties with honesty, dedication, dutifulness and professionalism.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Considering their risk in performing the duties, the premier said her government had introduced risk allowances for the PGR personnel in 1998.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She continued that her government had launched Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) in the PGR alongside increasing its manpower to enhance its operational capability.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PGR men were being imparted training at home and abroad to enhance their professional excellence, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PGR Commander Brigadier General Mohammad Khaled Kamal delivered the address of welcome at the function.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the event, the prime minister handed over the donation and gifts to the families of martyred PGR members who lost lives while performing their duties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 09:44:15', '2024-07-07 09:44:15'),
(12736, 12736, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Traffic Department of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has advised residents of some areas to start for early to beat possible disruptions due various street programmes on Sunday (July 07, 2024).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a press note on Sunday morning, it mentioned that a rally is scheduled to be brought out marking the Hindu community’s religious festival Ratha Yatra in the city and it will parade several roads of Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moreover, the city dwellers may face traffic jams due to some important events and ongoing anti-quota movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hence, the Traffic Department requested residents of Ramna, Motijheel and Wari areas to hit the streets with time in hand.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 09:48:30', '2024-07-07 09:48:30'),
(12737, 12737, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">US President Joe Biden heads back out on the campaign trail Sunday, desperate to salvage his re-election bid as senior Democrats meet to discuss growing calls that he quit the White House race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 81-year-old Democrat kicks off a grueling week with two campaign rallies in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, before hosting the NATO leaders\' summit in Washington.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will do so under an increasingly unforgiving spotlight, as pressure mounts for him to drop out after his disastrous debate against Donald Trump last month ignited panic over his age and fitness to serve another four years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden has remained defiant, unequivocally declaring -- at a rally, to reporters and on social media -- that he is fit to serve, the only one who can defeat Trump, and staying in the race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I beat Trump in 2020. I\'m going to beat him again in 2024,\" his campaign social media account posted Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But a televised interview with ABC News on Friday has failed to quell concerns. His next major test in the public eye will be a press conference scheduled for Thursday, during the NATO summit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">So far, five Democratic lawmakers have called on Biden to drop out, with the drumbeat of dissent slowly rising.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The House minority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, has scheduled a virtual meeting of senior Democrat representatives for Sunday to discuss the best way forward, and Democrat Senator Mark Warner is reportedly working to convene a similar forum in the upper chamber.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">First Lady Jill Biden, who -- according to some US media reports -- is urging her husband to stay in the race, is scheduled to campaign in Georgia, Florida and North Carolina on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But after Sunday\'s rallies in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, the president will have to step away from the campaign for the NATO summit beginning Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Here, too, he will find himself having to reassure allies at a time when many European countries fear a Trump victory in November.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 78-year-old Republican has long criticized NATO as an unfair burden on the United States, voiced admiration for Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, and insisted he could bring about a quick end to the fighting in Ukraine, where the Russian invasion is now in its third year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Lord Almighty\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">For now, Democrat heavyweights are largely keeping a lid on any simmering discontent with their leader -- at least in public.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But with election day just four months away, any move to replace Biden as the nominee would need to be made sooner rather than later, and the party will be scrutinized for any signs of more open rebellion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, for Biden and his campaign team, the strategy seems to be to ride it out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The campaign has unveiled an intense battle plan for July, including an avalanche of TV spots and trips to all the key states.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That includes a visit to the southwest of the country during the Republican convention from July 15-18, at which Trump is set to be anointed the party\'s official presidential nominee.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In what had been billed as a make-or-break interview with ABC News on Friday, Biden flatly dismissed the falling poll numbers and concerns over his mental and physical fitness triggered by his dismal June 27 performance against Trump.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He blamed a severe cold for the debate debacle and insisted it was just a \"bad night\" rather than evidence of increasing frailty and cognitive decline.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The sit-down has not soothed the concerns of critics who say that -- away from a teleprompter -- Biden can struggle to communicate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some of his answers were tentative, meandering and difficult to follow, even as he sought to deflect questions about his mental acuity and dismissed the notion that his party would consider replacing him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If the Lord Almighty came down and said, \'Joe, get out of the race,\' I\'d get out of the race,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But the Lord Almighty is not coming down.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 09:53:28', '2024-07-07 09:53:28'),
(12738, 12738, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Bangladesh and China are likely to sign around 20 MoUs and make announcements on some development projects during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s official visit to China that begins on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud came up with the updates while briefing the media at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Bangladesh will seek China\'s assistance in the areas of investment and trade; financial assistance and repatriation of Rohingyas to their homeland. At the same time, Bangladesh will continue to provide support to China as its friend in the global context,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan expressed optimism that the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister to China will be successful and fruitful.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said will reach an \"important consensus\" and sign multiple cooperation documents and MoUs in a number of areas during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s official visit to Beijing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The areas are infrastructure, free trade agreement, and agricultural product exports to China, Southern Bangladesh’s Development, digital economy, disaster prevention, poverty alleviation, clean energy, healthcare, education and cultural exchanges.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP fails to grasp essence of connectivity: Hasan Mahmud</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will pay the visit which is expected to \"outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation\" in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Through this visit, the two sides will achieve new breakthroughs in pragmatic cooperation, bringing more benefits to the people of both countries, said the Ambassador who termed the forthcoming visit a milestone in bilateral relations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Thursday said this will be Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s first visit to China since her new term began and five years after her last visit to China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit, President Xi Jinping will meet with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Premier Li Qiang will hold a welcoming ceremony and have talks with her.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two prime ministers will attend the signing ceremony of cooperation documents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Leaders of the two countries will have an in-depth exchange of views on how to deepen traditional friendship and expand mutually beneficial cooperation and on regional and international issues of mutual interest,\" said the Spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Hasina will also attend the Summit on Trade, Business and Investment Opportunities between China and Bangladesh, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have similar visions for development and well-aligned development strategies. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 49 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with respect and equality, engaged in mutually beneficial cooperation, supported each other on issues concerning our respective core interests, and jointly advanced modernization,\" said the Spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they have set a good example of friendship and cooperation between developing countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In recent years, with the strategic guidance and commitment of leaders of our two countries, the two sides have deepened Bangladesh-China strategic cooperative partnership, and had fruitful and practical cooperation in various fields.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"China stands ready to work with Bangladesh through this visit to carry forward the spirit of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, deepen political mutual trust, further synergize development strategies, advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, speed up implementing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and elevate our bilateral relations to a new level,\" said the Spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese side said it stands ready to take this visit as an opportunity to further deepen political mutual trust between the two countries, strengthen the synergy of development strategies, consolidate traditional friendship, and work together to realize the Chinese Dream of National Rejuvenation and Bangladesh’s “Vision 2041”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 10:00:39', '2024-07-07 10:00:39'),
(12739, 12739, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arrested Mitu, one of the masterminds of a Gazipur Chemical Industry officials kidnapping and robbery of taka 19.45 Lakh, from city\'s Dakshinkhan area last night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to RAB sources, a RAB-1 team conducted a special operation in Dakshinkhan area of the capital on Saturday night and arrested her.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">RAB-1 Assistant Director M. Mahfuzur Rahman said, \"On the afternoon of June 6 last, three officials of the \'Selvo Chemical Industries Limited\' in Sreepur, Gazipur, were abducted at the gunpoint and held hostage by some people impersonating them as RAB officials\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They demanded the money kept for the salaries and bonuses of the workers and rent for truck as ransom.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A case was filed with Gazipur\'s Sreepur police station the next day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"During preliminary interrogation, the arrestee admitted her association with this particular robbery. She has also admitted to have been working with the organized bandit group for a long time,\" the RAB official said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The arrestee has been handed over to the police, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 10:07:23', '2024-07-07 10:07:23'),
(12740, 12740, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Lashing rains in Nepal causing flash floods and landslides have killed at least 14 people across the country, with disaster teams searching for nine missing, police said Sunday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Flooding in neighbouring India, as well as in downstream Bangladesh, has also caused widespread damage and impacted millions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Police are working with other agencies and locals to find the missing people,\" Nepalese police spokesman Dan Bahadur Karki told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Those killed and missing are in multiple locations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Monsoon rains from June to September bring widespread death and destruction every year across South Asia, but the numbers of fatal floods and landslides have increased in recent years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Experts say climate change and increased road construction are exacerbating the problem.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Parts of Nepal have been receiving heavy rainfall since Thursday, prompting disaster authorities in the Himalayan nation to warn of flash floods in multiple rivers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There have been reports of inundation in several districts of lowland areas bordering India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Last month 14 people were killed in Nepal in ferocious storms that brought landslides, lightning and flooding.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In India, floods have swamped the northeastern state of Assam, with six people killed in the last 24 hours, Assam\'s Disaster Management Authority said Sunday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That takes the death toll from the downpours since mid-May to 58.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In low-lying Bangladesh, downstream from India, the disaster management agency said floods had impacted more than two million people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Much of the country is made up of deltas where the Himalayan rivers the Ganges and the Brahmaputra wind towards the sea after coursing through India.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The summer monsoon brings South Asia 70-80 percent of its annual rainfall. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 10:19:38', '2024-07-07 10:19:38'),
(12741, 12741, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">John Cena, a 16-time WWE Champion, has announced his retirement from in-ring competitions with effect from 2025. Mr Cena announced his retirement during a surprise appearance at the \'Money in the Bank\' event in Toronto today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The WWE legend, 47, hit the ring carrying a towel with a slightly altered version of his most famous catchphrase, \"My Time Is Now\", this time reading, \"The Last Time Is Now.\" His shirt simply read, \"John Cena Farewell Tour.\" When Mr Cena began to speak, the Toronto crowd erupted with chants of \"No! No! No!\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Tonight, I officially announce my retirement from WWE,\" Mr&nbsp; Cena declared. He later clarified that it wouldn\'t entail immediate retirement but in 2025. Mr Cena said he will compete in the 2025 Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber and then at Wrestlemania 41 in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Cena who made his WWE debut in 2002, has had a storeyed career in wrestling entertainment. He has had memorable rivalries against some of the biggest names in wrestling like The Rock, Triple H, CM Punk, and Randy Orton.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to play in a house that you guys built for so many years,\" Mr Cena said, addressing the WWE Universe. \"Thank you so much for your voice because it\'s really loud and for your honesty because it\'s always brutal.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides wrestling, Mr Cena has also appeared in films such as The Suicide Squad. Fast X and The Independent, among others.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 10:40:24', '2024-07-07 10:40:24'),
(12742, 12742, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Police headquarters have issued a strong warning against the spread of rumors regarding missing children, urging the public not to be confused or panicked.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a press release today, police have emphasized that the claim circulating on Facebook, which states “35 children have been reported missing in 48 hours,” is false.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The claim, which has been widely shared since Saturday morning, has caused considerable panic among parents. The police have made it clear that such rumors are baseless and that legal action will be taken against those responsible for spreading them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The police urge the public to verify information through official channels and to report any concerns directly to law enforcement authorities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-07 15:33:32', '2024-07-07 15:33:32'),
(12743, 12743, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today left here for Beijing on a four-day bilateral visit at invitation of her Chinese counterpart.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The visit is believed to elevate the relations between Bangladesh and China to \"comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership\" from \"strategic partnership\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A special flight (BG1701) of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines, carrying the prime minister and her entourage members, departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:05 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to land at the Beijing Capital International Airport at 6 in the afternoon (Beijing time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in Beijing from July 8 to 11, the Bangladesh prime minister will have a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping alongside a delegation level bilateral meeting with her Chinese Counterpart Li Qiang on July 10.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh and China are likely to sign 20 to 22 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the premier\'s four-day visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The MoUs on cooperation in the economic and banking sector, trade and investment, digital economy, infrastructure development, assistance in disaster management, construction of 6th and 9th Bangladesh-China friendship bridges, export of agricultural products from Bangladesh and people to people connectivity are likely to be signed,\" Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud said on Sunday at a curtain raiser press conference at the Foreign Ministry here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit, Hasan said inauguration of a number of projects of the two countries will also be announced.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Bangladesh in October, 2016 when the relationship between the two countries had reached a strategic partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Premier Sheikh Hasina last visited Beijing in July, 2019. She also visited China on multiple prior occasions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two countries would celebrate the golden jubilee of the diplomatic relations next year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This visit of the Bangladesh premier to China is going to take place within 15 days after her last visit to India from June 21 to 22.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 9, the second day of Sheikh Hasina\'s visit to China, President of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Jin Liqun will pay a courtesy call on her at the Meeting Room, of her Place of Residence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afterwards, the prime minister will join a summit on Trade, Business and Investment Opportunities between Bangladesh and China at the China World Summit Wing, Shangri-La Circle, Beijing, China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the afternoon, a meeting is scheduled to be held between the Bangladesh premier and the Consultative Party president at the Great Hall of the People, Beijing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister will later place a wreath at the Monument to the People\'s Heroes at Tiananmen Square.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the evening, she will attend a dinner hosted in her honour by Ambassador of Bangladesh to China at Bangladesh House in Beijing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 10, a delegation level bilateral meeting led by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Premier of the State Council of China Li Qiang will be held at the Great Hall of the People where numerous documents that include Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed in presence of them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will later attend a welcome banquet (lunch) in honour of her hosted by the premier of the State Council of China at the same venue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the afternoon on July 10, the Bangladesh prime minister will pay a call on Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People, Beijing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Concluding the visit to China, Sheikh Hasina will depart from Beijing Capital International Airport for home at 11am (Beijing time) on July 11 by a special flight (BG1704) of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to land at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka at 2pm (BD time) the same day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:25:28', '2024-07-08 09:25:28'),
(12744, 12744, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The iron rod on the top of Rath (chariot) might have touched 11000 volt electric wire when the procession was moving towards Shib temple in Latifpur area, said executive engineer of selling and distribution department-1 of Northern Electricity Supply Company (Nesco) Abdul Mannaf.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Electrocution during Rath Yatra ((a Hindu religious festival) left five dead and around 40 injured in Bogura’s Seujgari Amtola intersection on Sunday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A fire broke out after the iron rod placed on the top of the chariot came in contact with the live electric wire and around 50 people, most of them women, fell down on the road from the chariot, said witnesses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arup Ratan Sheel, a local journalist who participated in the Rath Yatra, said, “Those who were involved in dragging the chariot by holding rope, were alerted by the president of Iskcon committee, Bogura, Kharjita Krishna Das about the high voltage electric wire over the road through loudspeaker. The sounds of the loudspeaker remained unheard due to the huge crowd there.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Executive Engineer of Nesco Abdul Mannaf, said as soon as they heard about the electrocution around 5:30 am they suspended the power supply in the area.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asking about why the power cables were kept necked over the road, Mannaf said the electric cables of 11000 voltage are kept open across the country and it’s not only in Bogura.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bogura Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said the local administration has provided Tk 25,000 each to the family members of the deceased for cremation while necessary steps were taken for medical treatment of the victims injured in the incident.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Abdul Wadud, deputy director of Bogura Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College and Hospital, said four people died at the hospital while 38 were undergoing treatment. Of them, two were receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, one died at 250-bed Mohammad Ali Hospital while three people were undergoing treatment there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A five member committee has been formed to investigate the the incident.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:28:19', '2024-07-08 09:28:19'),
(12745, 12745, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus has made an appeal to the High Court to cancel the proceedings of the money embezzlement case lodged against him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The application is scheduled to be heard by the high court division bench of Justice Nazrul Islam Talukder and Justice Kazi Ibadat Hossain.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Barrister Abdullah Al Mamun, lawyer of the defendants\' told BSS that, \"The application has been made on behalf of 7 people including Dr Muhammad Yunus.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Judge Syed Arafat Hossain of the Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 ordered to frame charges against 14 including the noble laureate, for embezzling around Taka 25.22 Crore from the Grameen Telecom welfare fund.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">July 15 has been fixed for the hearing on charge-framing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"42\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:31:32', '2024-07-08 09:31:32');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12746, 12746, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Five people were believed to be crushed to death under the wheels of a mail train departed from Chattogram in Raipura upazila of the district this morning, an official said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Five persons were presumed to be crushed to death under the wheels of Dhaka-bound mail train \'Turna-Nishita\' leaving Chattogram at 5.45am\", said Methikanda Station Master Ashrat Ali.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Being informed, police recovered the bodies from Khakhchak area of Palashtoli union in Raipura upazila around 10.30am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">All the deceased are male as their identities are yet to be ascertained.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the local people saw the bodies lying in Khakhchak area at around 8am, the station master said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police so far could not confirm whether they were crushed falling off the roof of the train or while sitting beside the level crossing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Being informed, police rushed to the spot and found the bodies lying scattered beside Dhaka-bound rail track. Locals could not identify them. The deceased are believed to be inhabitants from the distant areas,\" said Additional Police Super (Raipura Circle) Afsan Alam.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Three trains were operated to Dhaka before recovering the bodies. The incident is believed to happen by any of the three trains. PBI has been called on to confirm the identities of the deceased. We are exclusively looking into the matter\", he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:34:00', '2024-07-08 09:34:00'),
(12747, 12747, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Embattled US President Joe Biden hit the campaign trail Sunday seeking to reassure voters he was up for a grueling reelection fight, even as more top Democrats reportedly joined the chorus urging him to quit the race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 81-year-old remained defiant as he hop-scotched across Pennsylvania -- first to the relative safe ground of a predominantly Black church and a campaign field office, and then to a rally with union workers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As Biden arrived in the state capital Harrisburg, reporters shouted questions including whether the Democratic Party was behind him, to which the president grinned and loudly responded: \"Yes.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But an uprising has swelled among some fellow Democrats, analysts and voters concerned he lacks the mental acuity and physical fitness to serve a second term -- worries brought to the fore by a disastrous debate performance last month against Republican challenger Donald Trump.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">So far, five Democratic lawmakers have publicly called on Biden to drop out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The drip-drip of dissent increased Sunday as four senior congressmen, including ranking House Judiciary Committee Democrat Jerrold Nadler and ranking Armed Services Committee Democrat Adam Smith, said on a call with senior party lawmakers that it was time for Biden to exit the race, according to The New York Times and Politico, which cited people familiar with the call.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The president, however, has unequivocally declared he is fit to serve, saying that he is the only one who can defeat Trump, and that he is staying in the race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Democratic lawmakers will return to Capitol Hill Monday under pressure to either fall in line behind Biden or urge him to step aside.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Reported attempts by Senator Mark Warner to assemble his colleagues to address the crisis were called off, US media reported Sunday, with senators expected at their regular caucus meeting on Tuesday instead.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As for the president, his next major test will come on Thursday, when he is scheduled to hold a press conference during the NATO leaders\' summit in Washington.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two high-profile congressional Democrats on Sunday stopped short of calling for Biden to quit, but warned he still needed to win over worried voters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There\'s only one reason\" the race between Trump and Biden \"is close, and that\'s the president\'s age,\" Representative Adam Schiff told NBC\'s \"Meet the Press.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Democratic Senator Chris Murphy said \"the president needs to do more,\" including unscripted events, to reassure voters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This week is going to be absolutely critical,\" Murphy told CNN.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden himself largely avoided discussing the crisis when he gave a seven-minute address at Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ, speaking to a constituency he has embraced throughout his half-century political career.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s good to be home,\" he said to cheers, before joking briefly about his age.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I know I look like I\'m only 40 years old but I\'ve been around a little bit,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>- Democrats debate -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afterwards he visited a Democratic campaign field office to meet and thank staff. He spoke for a few minutes, without using a teleprompter or notes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some Democrats remain squarely behind Biden, including Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who accompanied him on the campaign excursion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There\'s only one person in this country who has kicked Trump\'s ass in an election, and that is your president,\" Fetterman told the Democratic staffers in Philadelphia, as Biden looked on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With Washington ruminating, First Lady Jill Biden is scheduled to campaign for her husband Monday in Georgia, Florida and North Carolina, while the president preps for the NATO leaders\' summit, beginning Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Here, too, he will find himself having to reassure allies at a time when many European countries fear a Trump victory in November.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 78-year-old Republican has long criticized the defense alliance, voiced admiration for Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, and insisted he could bring about a quick end to the fighting in Ukraine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With election day just four months away, any move to replace Biden as the nominee would need to be made sooner rather than later, and the party will be scrutinized for any signs of more open rebellion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, for Biden and his team, the strategy seems to be to ride it out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The campaign has unveiled an intense battle plan for July, including an avalanche of TV spots and trips to key states. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:37:34', '2024-07-08 09:37:34'),
(12748, 12748, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The government will cover all medical expenses for the victims injured during the Bogura Rath Yatra tragedy, Health Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen said today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two critically injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the burn unit of the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. They are not out of danger yet, the minister said during a press briefing following his visit to the burn unit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“I have spoken with the victims’ families and assured them that we are doing everything possible. The government will bear all medical expenses for the injured,” he reiterated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Describing the incident as “very tragic,” Dr. Sen mentioned that the Bogura Civil Surgeon and the director of Bogura Government Hospital have been instructed to ensure the victims receive proper treatment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof. Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and other officials from the Health Services Division were also present during the visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tragedy occurred on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of five people and injuring 43 others during the Rath Yatra (a Hindu religious festival) in Bogura district town.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the deaths from electrocution at the Seujgari Amtala intersection. Bogura Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said that the committee, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner Imrul Kayes, has been directed to submit a report within 10 working days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:45:32', '2024-07-08 09:45:32'),
(12749, 12749, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Beryl strengthened to a hurricane before hitting the southern US state of Texas on Monday, where some residents were evacuated over warnings of flooding and power outages.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said in its latest update that winds were reaching 80 miles (130 kilometers) per hour as Beryl approached the Texas coast.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Conditions (are) deteriorating with dangerous storm surge, flash flooding, and strong winds expected,\" the NHC warned early Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The National Weather Service issued a tornado alert for parts of Texas including Houston, which is home to 2.3 million people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have to take Beryl very, very seriously. Our worst enemy is complacency,\" said Houston Mayor John Whitmire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The mayor said he wanted residents in Houston \"to know the conditions that you go to sleep under tonight will not be the same that you wake up to in the morning.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several areas of the Texas coast were under hurricane and storm warnings on Sunday. Beryl is expected to make landfall between the port city of Corpus Christi and Galveston Island early Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The NHC said that rainfall of up to 15 inches (38 centimeters) is expected in parts of Texas, warning it could cause flash flooding in some areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Authorities in Nueces County, home to Corpus Christi, asked tourists to leave the city, while neighboring Refugio County -- yet to fully recover from Hurricane Harvey in 2017 -- issued a mandatory evacuation order on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The city of Galveston, southeast of Houston, issued a voluntary evacuation order for some areas, with videos on social media showing lines of cars heading out of town.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>- \'A deadly storm\' -</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Acting State Governor Dan Patrick called on Texans to stay alert, listen to local officials and leave the danger zone if possible.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It will be a deadly storm for people who are directly in that path,\" Patrick told a state emergency management news conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Trust me, you don\'t want to be in a Category 1,\" he added, referring to the lowest hurricane level.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beryl left at least seven dead after it tore through the Caribbean and Venezuela, with winds at times reaching Category 5 strength.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It hit Mexico as a Category 2 hurricane on Friday, flattening trees and lampposts and ripping off roof tiles, according to its civil protection authority, though there were no reported deaths or injuries there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Before that, it hit the Cayman Islands and Jamaica, slamming Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as Venezuela.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beryl is the first hurricane since NHC records began to reach the Category 4 level in June, and the earliest to hit the highest Category 5 in July.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is extremely rare for such a powerful storm to form this early in the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from early June to late November.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Scientists say climate change likely plays a role in the rapid intensification of storms like Beryl, since there is more energy in a warmer ocean for them to feed on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">North Atlantic waters are currently between two and five degrees Fahrenheit (one to three degrees Celsius) warmer than normal, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-08 09:48:04', '2024-07-08 09:48:04'),
(12750, 12750, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Quota protestors filed an application with the Appellate Division on Tuesday seeking a stay on the effectiveness of High Court order reinstating&nbsp; the freedom fighter quota in public service.<br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The hearing on the application will be held in full bench of the Appellate Division on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chamber judge Md Ashfaqul Islam fixed the date of hearing this noon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, around 11 am two students of Dhaka University sought permission from the court to submit the application seeking a stay on the effectiveness of the High Court order. Judge Ashfaqul Islam gave the permission.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, the application was filed with the concerned branch of the Appellate Division at around 12:30 pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two students are Alsadi Bhuiyan, president of Dhaka University Journalists\' Association, and Ahnaf Sayeed Khan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Advocate Shah Manjurul Haque stood for the petitioners.&nbsp; Attorney General AM Amin Uddin was present on behalf of the state.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on July 4, the HC adjourned the hearing on a petition filed by the state seeking a stay on the High Court verdict as the lawyer of the writ petitioner was not present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Then the anti-quota movement spread across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In such a situation, Attorney General AM Amin Uddin told reporters that the quota protesters can appeal to the Appellate Division if they want.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The quota system, which reserved 56 percent of positions in government jobs for various quotas, was abolished in 2018. This decision was challenged in 2021 by descendants of freedom fighters, leading to a High Court ruling on June 5, 2024, declaring the abolition of the freedom fighters’ quota illegal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government subsequently applied to the Chamber Court of the Appellate Division to suspend the order.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 4, a six-judge bench led by Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan heard the application. The Appellate Division upheld the High Court’s verdict temporarily and instructed the state to file a leave-to-appeal once the full verdict is published, adjourning the case hearing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd024/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-09 10:41:55', '2024-07-09 10:41:55'),
(12751, 12751, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman Md Sohorab Hossain has said that the July 5 exam for the post of deputy assistant engineer of Bangladesh Railway will be void if the question paper was indeed leaked.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There have been allegations of question paper leaks over the past 12 years, but proving them now seems unlikely. However, if the allegations regarding the July 5 railway recruitment exam are proven, we will declare it void promptly. There is no doubt about it,\" he said during a press briefing at the PSC headquarters on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also outlined procedural measures from paper distribution to ensuring secure delivery to examination centres. Regarding past allegations, he said that decisions on previous tests would be taken during commission meetings, emphasising the complexities involved in assessing exams conducted over the past 12 years under different leadership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The commission will collectively decide on actions pertaining to previous tests. It\'s a legal matter to determine whether we have jurisdiction to annul past examinations, which requires careful consideration,\" added the PSC chairman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd024/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-09 10:46:55', '2024-07-09 10:46:55'),
(12752, 12752, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today paid glowing tributes at the Monument to the People\'s Heroes at the Tian\'anmen Square here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She paid homage to the Chinese heroes by placing a wreath at the Monument.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The national anthems of the two countries were played on the occasion while the bugle sounded the last post.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After laying the wreath at the Monument in the afternoon, the prime minister stood in solemn silence for some times as a mark of profound respect to the memory of the Chinese revolutionary heroes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on her arrival at the square, a smartly turned out contingent of the Chinese Armed Forces gave the Bangladesh premier the state salute.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister is now in Beijing on a four-day bilateral visit to China from July 8 to 11 at the invitation of her Chinese counterpart Li Qiang.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd024/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-09 10:52:04', '2024-07-09 10:52:04'),
(12753, 12753, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Ukraine on Tuesday after a deadly Russian strike on a Kyiv children\'s hospital, a spokesman for the world body said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The session scheduled for 10:00 am (1400 GMT) follows a request from Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, UN spokesman Farhan Aziz Haq told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky said 38 people were killed and 190 wounded Monday in a wave of missiles that targeted towns and cities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Kyiv was \"initiating an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council due to the Russian strike on civilian infrastructure\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UN said Tuesday there was a \"high likelihood\" that the children\'s hospital in the capital suffered \"a direct hit\" from a Russian missile.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Danielle Bell, head of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, called the strike \"one of the most egregious attacks that we\'ve seen since the onset of the full-scale invasion\" by Russia in February 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd024/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-09 11:30:38', '2024-07-09 11:30:38'),
(12754, 12754, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today called upon China to help Bangladesh repatriate the forcibly displaced Rohingyas to their homeland Myanmar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Help sending the Rohingya back to Myanmar,\" she was quoted as saying by Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud in a media briefing on her engagements on the second day of her visit to China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Premier made the remarks when a high-level Committee of the Chinese People\'s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), a very important wing of the Chinese Communist Party led by its Chairman Wang Hunning, held a meeting with the Bangladesh Premier at Great Hall of the People here this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the meeting, different regional and bilateral issues, including the Rohingya crisis, reducing trade gap between Bangladesh and China, celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries in a meaningful way, measures to enhance their bilateral relations and contact between Bangladesh Awami League and Chinese Communist Party, were prominently and elaborately discussed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh Premier said Rohingyas have taken shelter over six and a half years ago but no initiative has been taken yet to repatriate them to Myanmar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This issue was discussed (during the meeting) with most importance,\" Dr Hasan said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The CPCC Chairman said they will discuss the matter with Myanmar will play a role of facilitator between Bangladesh and Myanmar over the issue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We will give our highest efforts to initiate Rohingya repatriation by holding discussions with the Myanmar,\" Wang Hunning said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Finance Minister A H Mahmood Ali, PM\'s Press Secretary M Nayeemul Islam Khan and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Managing Director and Chief Editor Abul Kalam Azad were present, among others, during the briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-09 13:58:35', '2024-07-09 13:58:35'),
(12755, 12755, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced to provide one billion dollars for Bangladesh as economic assistance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said this during a media briefing adding that the Chinese Premier also said they give utmost importance to the relationship with Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the Chinese Premier also expressed his desire to take the relations between Bangladesh and China to a new level.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a cordial environment there was a fruitful discussion between Bangladesh and China regarding all issues, said the Foreign Minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasan said Li Qiang recalled the relationship that was planted through the 1952 and 1957 visits of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and with six visits of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the relations will be expanded further in the coming days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina invited the Chinese President, Prime Minister and others to visit Bangladesh next year to celebrate the 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Both the leaders put emphasis on celebrating the golden jubilee of the diplomatic relationship in a befitting manner.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation to resolve the Rohingya issue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She put emphasis on reducing the trade gap with China. In reply, the Chinese Prime Minister talked about importing more Bangladesh products in his country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina requested her Chinese counterpart to import leather products, jute products, pharmaceutical goods, and ceramic products.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Both countries have agreed to work together to establish world peace and uphold humanity across the globe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina invited more Chinese investments in 100 special economic zones and Bangabandhu Industrial Park mentioning that Bangladesh has allotted one export processing zone for Chinese investors.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina pointed out the inclusion of Bangladesh in BRICS in any format.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese Prime Minister assured her of their support regarding this inclusion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation so that Bangladesh could enjoy the LDC facilities at least three more years in its official graduation to Middle Income Country after 2026.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese Prime Minister gave a positive response.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-10 09:54:40', '2024-07-10 09:54:40'),
(12757, 12757, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Train communications between Dhaka and other parts of the country have been suspended as quota protestors put up barricades on Karwan Bazar level crossing and Mohakhali level crossing in the capital, causing immense suffering to commuters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Protesting students from different universities blocked the level crossings by placing logs around 11 am as part of the countrywide ‘Bangla Blockade’ programme protesting reinstatement of quota in public service.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ferdous Ahmed Biswas, officer-in-charge of Dhaka Railway Police Station, said the students put up barricade on the level  crossing near Karwan Bazar around 11 am, disrupting the train communication.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tanim Ahmed, a private university student, said their movement will continue till evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About the Supreme Court’s status quo order for four weeks regarding the High Court’s earlier order to reinstate quota system in government jobs, he said, “Quota system need to reformed and until that we will continue our movement.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Protesters gathered at the Shahbagh intersection  and chanted various slogans against the quota system, bringing vehicular movement in the area to a halt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, a group of students blocked Karwanbazar FDC point road, disrupting traffic movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, students were seen blocking roads in Mohakhali Amtoli, Science Laboratory and Merul Badda, halting traffic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In some areas, commuters were seen trying to reach their destinations on foot.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The quota protesters have been observing the ‘Bangla Blockade’ programme in the capital and other parts of the country blocking different intersections in the capital, railways and highway in other parts of the country, causing woes to people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-10 10:51:17', '2024-07-10 10:54:26'),
(12760, 12760, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today (July 10, 2024) said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ongoing official China visit has not been shortened, but she is returning home tonight to give time to her daughter Saima Wazed who is unwell.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There has been no change in her official engagements. She was supposed to stay in Beijing tonight. But she is returning to spend time with her daughter,” he told reporters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Foreign Minister said that Saima Wazed, who is the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia, was supposed to be part of the visit but she could not as she fell sick on July 8 morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Saima Wazed is still unwell, said Hasan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Read more: Dhaka, Beijing sign 21 cooperation documents to strengthen ties on diverse fronts</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh and China today signed 21 cooperation documents, mostly MoUs, eyeing stronger development and economic cooperation between the two Asian countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The two countries also announced seven outcomes, including the conclusion of a joint feasibility study on Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Hasina will leave Beijing for Dhaka tonight, wrapping up her bilateral visit to China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A special flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the Prime Minister and her entourage will depart Beijing Capital International Airport at 10 pm (local time) tonight and is scheduled to land at 1 am (Bangladesh time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier was earlier scheduled to leave Beijing for Dhaka on Thursday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in Beijing from July 8 to 10, the Bangladesh Prime Minister had a delegation level bilateral meeting with her Chinese counterpart Li Qiang today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Hasina held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-10 11:04:18', '2024-07-10 11:04:18'),
(12763, 12763, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Strict action will be taken against individuals who block roads in the name of the ‘Blockade,’ Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Ops) Dr. Mahid Uddin warned today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing a press conference at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Media Center, he emphasized that causing public suffering through road blockades is a punishable offense under existing laws.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite the Supreme Court’s Appellate Division issuing a status quo on the High Court’s judgment regarding the quota system in government jobs, anti-quota protesters are continuing the ‘Bangla Blockade’ across the country. They demand the cancellation of the quota system and the reinstatement of the 2018 circular. Protesters plan to take to the streets again at 3:30 pm today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Additional Police Commissioner elaborated, “Yesterday, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld the 2018 circular with a four-week suspension order. As a result, the 2018 circular remains in effect during this period. Therefore, there is no justification for causing public hardship through protests.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He appealed to the students, saying, “We have love and sympathy for the students, but we must respect the existing laws and the decisions of our highest court. As educated individuals, I urge the students not to organize any programs that cause public suffering. The 2018 circular is still in effect.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The DMP official added, “Yesterday, protesters occupied 21 locations. We managed the situation professionally, ensuring the free movement of Dhaka residents. Since the court has settled the matter, we hope there will be no further public disruptions.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“A movement should have a logical basis. Currently, the Apex Court’s order is in favor of the protesters. If there is no logic in the movement, it should not continue. We request the students to cease these programs. It will benefit everyone, including the city residents and the respect for our judicial system,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“If the roads are blocked, then you’re impeding the freedom of movement, according to our constitution. We hope the protesters will not commit this offense. In the past ten days, the police have acted professionally, maintaining respect for the students. We believe the students will reciprocate this respect towards the law, the city residents, and the police,” the DMP official said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When asked if the police would take action if the protests continued, he said, “Our professional approach has been to manage these situations calmly, and we aim to continue this. We hope the protesters will understand their position, especially given the court’s order. Since the 2018 circular is in effect, there is no logical basis for the protests.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 09:46:24', '2024-07-11 09:46:24'),
(12764, 12764, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Bangladesh and China have agreed to enhance cooperation in financial regulation, and encouraged increased use of local currency settlement in bilateral trade, according to a joint statement issued after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s three-day official visit to Beijing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina returned home early hours of Thursday after talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh side welcomes Chinese banks to establish branches in Bangladesh, and vice versa.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh and China agreed to strengthen coordination in international and multilateral affairs, and expressed readiness to further coordinate positions and build broader consensus in multilateral processes concerning international peace and security, sustainable development, human rights, humanitarian affairs, climate change, energy transition and environmental protection, to jointly safeguard the common interest of developing countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides discussed various aspects of the Global Development Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese side is ready to share experience on GDI issues with the Bangladesh side.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese side also presented the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) to the Bangladesh side to ensure peace, development and shared prosperity for all.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina paid an official visit to China from July 8 to 10 at the invitation of Premier Li.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit,&nbsp; Hasina had a meeting with&nbsp; Xi and met with Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a cordial and friendly atmosphere, the two sides had in-depth exchange of views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest, and reached extensive consensus.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh side congratulated the Chinese side on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and applauded China’s historic achievements and transformation in economic and social development in the new era.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh lauded China’s efforts to build itself into a great modern socialist country in all respects and advance the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through the Chinese path to modernisation, and expressed sincere wish for China to realise the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation as scheduled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese side applauded the achievements of Bangladesh in economic and social development, and expressed continued support for Bangladesh’s graduation from the UN Least Developed Countries (LDC) status in 2026 as scheduled and Bangladesh’s steady progress toward realising its Vision 2041 of a “Smart Bangladesh.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides applauded their strategic partnership of cooperation established in 2016, and agreed that the China-Bangladesh relationship has reached a new height.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leaders of the two countries agreed to stay committed to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, carry forward the long-standing friendship, foster greater synergy between development strategies of the two countries, advance the Belt and Road cooperation, and elevate the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides decided to take the opportunity of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations in 2025 to plan together for the future development of bilateral ties and take the China-Bangladesh relationship to another new height.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides agreed that China and Bangladesh have been good neighbours and good friends since ancient times, sharing a millennium-old history of friendly exchanges.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Over the past 49 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the traditional China-Bangladesh friendship forged by generations of leaders of both countries has grown from strength to strength.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, and pursued mutual benefits. With ever deepening mutual trust, the two countries have achieved fruitful outcomes in their practical cooperation, and kept close collaboration in international and regional affairs, thus setting a fine example of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation in relations between countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and to mutual understanding and support on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chinese side firmly supports Bangladesh in maintaining peace and stability, realising development goals as envisioned under Vision 2041, non-interference in its internal affairs, and independently choosing a development path suited to its national conditions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides stressed that the authority of the U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 is beyond question and brooks no challenge.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle and its position that the government of the People’s Republic of China represents the whole of China, and Taiwan is part of China, and Bangladesh supports China on issues pertaining to China\'s core interests and China\'s efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:01:41', '2024-07-11 10:01:41');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12765, 12765, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Flood situation in some low-lying areas of Kurigram, Jamalpur, Gaibandha, Bogra, Tangail and Sirajganj districts adjacent to Brahmaputra-Jamuna river may remain steady, said a regular bulletin of Flood Forecasting Warning Centre (FFWC).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Teesta, Dharla and Dudhkumar rivers in the northern region of the country may rise at a particular time in the next 24 hours, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As a result, the Teesta and Dharla rivers may flow above danger level at some stations for short duration and the flood situation may deteriorate slightly in the low-lying areas of Kurigram district adjacent to the Dudhkumar River.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Jamuneswari, Upper Karatoa, Upper Atrai, Punarava, Tangon and Ichamoti-Jamuna rivers in the northern region of the country may rise rapidly at particular time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Atrai River at Baghabari point in the north-western region of the country may fall, thus the flood situation of low-lying areas of Sirajganj district along the river may improve in the next 24 hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flood situation in different low-lying areas of the North-eastern region of the country may remain in steady state.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the Brahmaputra River is in rising trend on the other hand the Jamuna River is in steady state. Both the river may remain steady in next 24 hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ganges river is in rising trend, which may continue in the next 72 hours, while the</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Padma river is in steady state which may continue in next 24 hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the North-eastern region of the country, the Kushiyara River is in steady state, while the Surma river is in rising trend which may continue in next 24 hours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the information from meteorological organizations, heavy rainfall is expected in the next 24 hours in the Northern and North-eastern regions and adjoining upstream parts of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:06:08', '2024-07-11 10:06:08'),
(12766, 12766, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) has called on students protesting the quota system in government jobs to await the court’s decision and return to their classrooms and exams. BCL expressed its stance on the ongoing anti-quota movement at a press conference held at Madhur Canteen, Dhaka University, today (July 11, 2024) at 12 pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Saddam Hussain, President of BCL central committee, emphasized the necessity of considering the court’s observations. “Seeking orders from the executive department alone is not wise. Good decisions take time. Mob justice cannot be commendable,” Hussain said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Highlighting the importance of the quota system, the BCL president said, “The quota system is an inclusive framework that ensures participation and gender balance. The government and the High Court are actively working to resolve this issue. Students need to be patient.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He further clarified, “This is not an anti-discrimination student movement. Statistics show that quotas are essential for ensuring gender balance and an inclusive administration.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing the impact of the ongoing protests, the BCL president criticized the disruption caused by road and rail blockades. “Students are creating a crisis, leading to public suffering. These issues must be resolved through policy discussions and strategic actions. We urge students to return to their classes,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:10:33', '2024-07-11 10:10:33'),
(12773, 12773, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A Democratic senator on Wednesday called on US President Joe Biden to ditch his reelection bid, capping a brutal day that saw mounting pressure from high-profile actor and donor George Clooney and party heavyweight Nancy Pelosi.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As the 81-year-old tried to show his leadership credentials at a NATO summit in Washington, domestic calls have been growing for Biden to quit following his disastrous debate performance against Republican challenger Donald Trump.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At least eight House Democrats have openly called on Biden to not seek reelection, but Peter Welch became the first in the Senate to explicitly do so as concerns rise over his age and fitness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"For the good of the country, I\'m calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race,\" the Vermont senator said in an opinion piece in the Washington Post.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden has been trying to stem a growing tide of Democrats saying that he cannot win in November, but a steady drip of public revolt is squashing efforts to turn the page on the crisis.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hollywood star Clooney penned a devastating editorial in the New York Times Wednesday just three weeks after co-hosting a huge fundraiser in Los Angeles that raised nearly $30 million for Biden.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fundraiser was not the Joe \'big F-ing deal\' Biden of 2010,\" wrote Clooney.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"He wasn\'t even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Clooney said that Biden would lose the presidential election, and Democrats would also lose both chambers of Congress.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the June 15 fundraiser in Los Angeles co-hosted by Clooney and fellow movie star Julia Roberts, Biden appeared tired as he took to the stage alongside former president Barack Obama.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He had flown straight to California from the G7 summit in Italy and has since blamed jetlag and a cold for his performance in the June 27 television debate with Donald Trump.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response to Clooney\'s editorial, the Biden campaign pointed to the president\'s statements on Monday saying he was committed to running again in November.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Media-shy for much of his presidency, Biden will also give a fresh interview to broadcaster NBC on Monday as he seeks to convince voters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Overwhelmingly negative\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But while top Democrats broadly but unenthusiastically backed him on Tuesday, Biden\'s efforts to stop the bleeding increasingly looked to be in vain just a day later.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Former House speaker Pelosi, 86, was lukewarm on his candidacy Wednesday, telling MSNBC \"it\'s up to the president to decide if he is going to run.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'re all encouraging him to make that decision because the time is running short,\" she said, despite Biden\'s repeated pledges last week to stay in the race.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pelosi said Biden should delay any final decision until after NATO\'s 75th anniversary summit in Washington, which ends on Thursday with what will be a closely watched press conference by the president.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fellow NATO leaders appeared to rally round Biden as he greeted them on arrival.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">French President Emmanuel Macron, himself under pressure after calling an inconclusive snap election, gave the older man a hug and a firm handshake on the podium.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden, who gave a forceful speech pledging new air defenses for Ukraine as the summit opened on Tuesday, got through his opening remarks with only a couple of verbal stumbles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But his every move from now until November will now be watched for evidence of age-related frailty or ill health.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Republicans also turned the screw, with the House Oversight Committee, which the party controls, issuing subpoenas for three top White House aides to testify about Biden\'s health, the Axios news outlet reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:21:48', '2024-07-11 10:21:48'),
(12774, 12774, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">F-16 warplanes being sent to Ukraine is a victory for President Volodymyr Zelensky and will help protect against Russian strikes, but they are not a one-stop solution for gaps in the country\'s air defenses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States, the Netherlands and Denmark announced Wednesday that the transfer of the planes had begun, saying Ukraine \"will be flying operational F-16s this summer.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky had repeatedly pushed for the US-made warplanes to help counter Russia\'s invasion, with the United States eventually acceding last year after initially insisting that focusing on ground-based air defenses was a better use of resources.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"As a symbolic effort, it\'s tremendously important... This was really the last item that Zelensky had highlighted as important for Ukrainian defense,\" said Mark Cancian, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He noted that there has been a series of weapons systems -- HIMARS rocket launchers, Patriot air defense batteries, Abrams tanks, ATACMS missiles -- that Washington was reluctant to provide but eventually agreed to donate to Kyiv.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In each case, providing that weapon had an important symbolic and psychological impact, putting aside, you know, what the battlefield impact might be,\" Cancian said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I think it will help for air defenses... but it\'s not going to be a silver bullet,\" he said of the F-16s, noting that there \"just aren\'t going to be enough of them.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Devastating strikes -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky said in an interview with AFP in May that Kyiv needed up to 130 F-16s to secure air parity with Russia, but Western countries have pledged fewer than 100 so far, and not all of them will arrive at once.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia has exploited gaps in Ukraine\'s air defenses to carry out devastating strikes on civilians and infrastructure, as well as to pummel Kyiv\'s troops on the front lines, leaving the country desperate for additional protection.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Highlighting the threat, more than 40 people were killed earlier this week by a wave of dozens of missiles that hit cities across the country and ripped through a children\'s hospital in Kyiv.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The lack of air superiority has also hampered Ukrainian operations, with Kyiv pointing to that as a major factor limiting its forces\' ability to advance following a lackluster 2023 counter-offensive.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky hailed the announcement that F-16s were being transferred, saying the planes will \"bring just and lasting peace closer, demonstrating that terror must fail everywhere and at any time.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Air defense symphony -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Cancian said air defense will likely be Ukraine\'s main use for the planes, along with supporting frontline troops and a few \"high-visibility deep strikes\" inside Russia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Michael Bohnert, an air and maritime acquisitions expert with the RAND Corporation, said the transfer of the F-16s \"shows a long-term commitment\" to Ukraine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The logistics and support for these aircraft, including training etc., is a long-term process, and it is a tangible, measurable way of showing a long-term commitment,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bohnert said the F-16s will be able to help \"chase down cruise missiles like those used in the attacks on Kyiv,\" and also to defend areas where there are no ground-based systems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The planes could also divert Russian resources toward countering them in the air and seeking to destroy them on the ground, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bohnert said \"it\'s not just one system, it\'s a symphony. And right now, Ukraine, their air symphony\'s a little thin, and they don\'t have every instrument.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This is like adding brass instruments when you already have... percussion, strings, etc. It\'s just adding another piece,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:32:22', '2024-07-11 10:32:22'),
(12775, 12775, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Elena Rybakina can move closer to a second Wimbledon title on Thursday when she faces Barbora Krejcikova armed with one of the All England Club\'s deadliest serves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Krejcikova is in her first Wimbledon semi-final as are Jasmine Paolini and Donna Vekic, who contest Thursday\'s other tie.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rybakina, the 2022 champion, is the overwhelming favourite to sweep to a second title at the All England Club.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Russian-born Kazakh, seeded fourth, has hit a joint tournament best of 31 aces and has dropped serve just six times.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 1.83 metre (6 feet) Rybakina has unleashed 134 winners and spent only six hours and 14 minutes on court through five rounds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Of course I have such amazing memories from 2022 and I\'m just enjoying every time I step on the court, especially when I play good. It\'s just really amazing,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In 2022 I was definitely more nervous than now. It was the first time for me to play on Centre Court. It was a lot of people, a lot of attention. Now, of course, I got used to it a little bit.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Krejcikova, the French Open champion in 2021, has spent over three hours more on court than Rybakina in getting to her first Wimbledon semi-final.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 28-year-old played the longest women\'s match of the tournament in the first round, three hours and 14 minutes, to see off Veronika Kudermetova.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Such resilience would have been difficult to imagine earlier this year, when Krejcikova was laid low by injury and illness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also went winless between February and June.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It was a very, very difficult period,\" said the Czech 31st seed who admitted she had surprised herself by making the semi-finals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I was out. I was ill and injured, this and that. Always coming back and getting ill again. Coming back, getting ill.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Krejcikova can at least take comfort from knowing that she has defeated Rybakina in both of their previous meetings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Before this season, Paolini appeared destined to spend her career on the fringes of the women\'s game, a top-30 player making a comfortable living but falling well short of stardom.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 16 appearances at the Grand Slams she had failed to get past the second round.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, that changed with a fourth-round run at the Australian Open, a first WTA 1,000-level title in Dubai and a runner-up spot at the French Open.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Now the 28-year-old, who stands at a modest 1.63 metres, is in the semi-finals of Wimbledon, having never won a grass-court match until last month.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I didn\'t realise before, but my coach was telling me that I could play well here. I wasn\'t believing too much,\" said the modest seventh-ranked Italian.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Paolini has thrived in her return game at Wimbledon, breaking serve 28 times.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, that skill could be tested against Vekic, who has hit 28 aces through five rounds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Vekic is in her first Grand Slam semi-final in her 43rd attempt.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the Open era, only four players have taken longer to make such a significant breakthrough.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Vekic has plenty of experience on her coaching staff in the shape of Pam Shriver, a three-time semi-finalist in the 1980s.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"She has all the experience, so she can help me in some crucial moments. She\'s great fun. I\'m really proud to have her in my team,\" said the 28-year-old Croatian.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-11 10:40:59', '2024-07-11 10:40:59'),
(12776, 12776, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday asked the exporters to explore new markets for Bangladeshi goods and expand the country’s export basket.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We’ll have to search for new places.We’ll have to expand the export basket,” she said while addressing the National Export Trophy Award Ceremony in the city’s Osmani Memorial Auditorium.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the function, the PM conferred 77 exporters with the National Export Trophy in 28 categories for their outstanding performance in the country\'s export earnings for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Among them, 28 firms were recognised with gold trophies, while 27 with silver trophies and 21 with bronze trophies and the rest one firm with the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Export Trophy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rifat Garments Ltd was given the highest recognition, the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Export Trophy for highest export earnings in the 2021-22 fiscal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said a country shouldn’t rely on only one export item as the demand of a particular item won’t always be the same.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Why will we be dependent only on the garment item?” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She expressed her conviction to take the country forward economically by boosting production, export earnings and purchasing power of the country’s people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We don’t want to be dependent on limited goods,” said Hasina.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-14 07:41:18', '2024-07-14 07:41:18'),
(12777, 12777, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said that during her China visit, at the bilateral meeting with the Chinese President on July 10, Xi Jinping mentioned four areas of assistance in grants, interest-free loans, concessional loans and commercial loans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Under these four packages, China has agreed to pay the equivalent of USD 2 billion to Bangladesh,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also said her visit to China is a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s diplomatic endeavours.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“My visit will be marked as a significant part of Bangladesh’s diplomatic activities,” she said during a press conference at Ganabhaban today, reflecting on her trip.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina emphasized that enhanced communication and cooperation in research, education, ICT, technology, and culture would strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China, aiding in the realization of the Sonar Bangla and a modern, smart Bangladesh, as envisioned by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Next year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China. The Prime Minister highlighted Bangladesh’s adherence to Bangabandhu’s foreign policy principle of “friendship to all, malice to none,” which has guided the nation in its bilateral and multilateral diplomatic efforts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I believe that Bangladesh and China will continue to advance development through mutual assistance, considering global realities like climate change, the Palestine crisis, human rights, sustainable development, and the United Nations,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister underscored the long-standing relationship between Bangladesh and China, which extends beyond economic cooperation to traditional ties as Asian countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing the issue of the forcibly displaced Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, Sheikh Hasina sought China’s cooperation in resolving the crisis. She noted that the Chinese President thanked Bangladesh for its humanitarian assistance to the Rohingyas and reiterated China’s commitment to supporting their repatriation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“President Xi reiterated his commitment to support the repatriation of the Rohingya,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina also expressed optimism that Bangladesh and China would continue to support each other at regional and international levels.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Through fruitful discussions with the Chinese President, the relationship between Bangladesh and China has been elevated to the level of Integrated Strategic Cooperative Partnership, PM Hasina said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-14 12:18:01', '2024-07-14 12:18:01'),
(12778, 12778, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">After the police raid, the Detective Branch (DB) police marked off the areas in front of the main gate of the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office with crime scene tape inscribed with \'Do not cross.\'</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The collapsible gate of the BNP office was also found locked from outside as of 12 pm on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A large number of police members have been deployed around the BNP office, and pedestrians are not allowed to walk on the footpaths near it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A staff member of the BNP office said police took control of the office by driving them away last night, and later conducted a raid. “We haven\'t been able to enter since then, as the police have put up security tape in front of the office.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At least six people were killed in clashes between the police and ruling party organizations in different parts of the country, including Dhaka, during the general students’ movement demanding reform in the government jobs quota system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, police raided the BNP office early Wednesday following the explosion of some crude bombs in front of it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A team of Detectives Branch (DB) of police conducted the raid around 12:30 am and arrested former President of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) Rownakul Islam Shraban and six others from there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, talking to reporters, the Chief of the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Harun Or Rashid, claimed that they recovered huge crude bombs and bamboo sticks from the washrooms of the BNP office and arrested seven people including Shraban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the other hand, at an emergency virtual press conference, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the law enforcers raided the BNP office as part of the government\'s masterplan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also termed the police raid at their office a foul play and a dangerous drama by the DB police.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader said police entered their empty office at midnight to stage a drama as part of their deep-rooted conspiracy. “They did the same thing earlier in the past. They entered our office like cowards at midnight to mislead people. We strongly condemn and protest it.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rizvi claimed that either the members of law enforcers or the ruling party men with police protection hurled crude bombs in front of the BNP office to create a ground for the raid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the law enforcers raided the BNP office to spread fear among the students who are carrying the anti-quota movement across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-17 09:22:41', '2024-07-17 09:22:41'),
(12779, 12779, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The United Nations has called on the government of Bangladesh to protect the demonstrators against any form of threat or violence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UN especially mentioned those who may be protesting peacefully and may need extra protection, such as young people or children or people with disabilities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But it is a fundamental human right to be able to demonstrate peacefully, and Governments should protect those rights,\" said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, in a regular briefing in New York on July 16.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question, he said they are very much aware of the situation, which they following closely and with concern.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\" I think whether it’s in Bangladesh or anywhere else in the world, people have a right to demonstrate peacefully,\" said the Spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-17 09:25:57', '2024-07-17 09:25:57'),
(12780, 12780, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Students of all halls of all dormitories of Rajshahi University have been staging sit-in in front of the vice-chancellor\'s residence&nbsp; &nbsp;against the notice asking them to leave the halls.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An emergency syndicate meeting of Rajshahi University (RU) on Tuesday night asked the students to vacate the dormitories by 12:00pm on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The residential students of Shaheed Suhrawardy Hall locked the hall gate and prevented everyone from leaving the hall, reports our correspondent from the spot.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides,&nbsp; students of Suhrawardy Hall confined the hall provost into the hall, demanding their hall to their hall to be free from politics .</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Shaheed Suhrawardy Hall Provost Prof Jahangir Alam said, \"Although I want student politics to be banned, everything is not in my hands.I can make a decision after talking to the residential teachers. “</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Residential students have locked several female dormitories including Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Hall and they are staying inside the hall.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rajshahi University Proctor Asabul Haque said, \"There are instructions from the government to ensure the security of residential halls. In that case, we will lock the halls for security. “</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Residential students have locked several female dormitories including Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Hall.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rajshahi University Proctor Asabul Haque said, \"There are instructions from the government to ensure the security of residential halls. In that case, we will lock the halls for security. \'</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"34\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-17 09:28:29', '2024-07-17 09:28:29'),
(12781, 12781, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Holy Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), is being observed in the country on Wednesday with due religious fervour and solemnity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ashura, the 10th of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, commemorates the date in the Hijri year of 61, when Hazrat Imam, the grandson of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family members and 72 followers embraced the martyrdom in the hands of Yazid’s soldiers at the desert of Karbala to uphold the teachings of the Prophet (SM).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The day is a public holiday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several hundreds of people of Shia Muslim community brought out the Tazia processions from Imambara Husaini Dalan in Old Dhaka and paraded several city streets and it was supposed to end at Khikhet.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Different religious organisations are holding various programmes on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, law enforcement agencies have taken special security measures in the capital on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Adequate security measures have been taken around Imambara Husaini Dalan to ensure seamless observation of Holy Ashura.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television and private TV channels are airing special programmes highlighting the significance of the day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"7\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-17 09:33:59', '2024-07-17 09:33:59'),
(12782, 12782, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka University (DU) has been declared closed for an indefinite period ‘for students’ safety and ensuring peaceful academic environment’ considering the emerging situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A media release, signed by Mahmud Alam, director at the Public Relations Office of the university, said the university’s syndicate committee has taken the decision from an emergency meeting with Vice Chancellor Prof Dr SM Maksud Kamal in the chair.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The students have been asked to vacate the dormitories by 6pm on Wednesday and subsequently the students will be allowed to enter the dormitories upon allotment of seats on the basis of the merit when the halls will be opened, it said</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The students and teachers, who were injured during the clashes, will be given necessary treatment assistance, it reads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The university authorities have urged the government to resolve the quota issue in a rational way, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The university authorities paid profound respect to the people who died centring the quota reform movement and expressed sympathy to the bereaved families.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-07-17 09:48:57', '2024-07-17 09:48:57'),
(12783, 12783, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said the United Nations and any country can send their experts for the proper investigation of every incident of the recent violence related to the quota reform movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I want everything to be investigated. Because, it needs to be found out what happened behind it and how these happened. I’ve appealed to the United Nations to send their experts. If any other country wants, they can send their experts too,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said this while addressing a voluntary blood donation programme, discussion and doa mahfil, arranged by Bangladesh Krishak League at the auditorium of Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in the city\'s Farmgate, on the occasion of the National Mourning Day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said, “I want these incidents to be investigated properly. We’ll have to take action against the culprits no matter who they are.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Awami League President, Sheikh Hasina, said she formed a one-member judicial enquiry committee, without waiting for any demand in this regard, in a bid to investigate the killings of six people in the violence initially.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later she upgraded it to a three-member committee to expand its scope when a larger number of incidents occurred, said the PM.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said her government has brought the status of a developing country for Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“But today the image of Bangladesh worldwide is being tarnished by carrying out false propaganda and such militant acts. I’m leaving it to the people to judge it,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hasina, the eldest daughter of Bangabandhu, said the father of the nation is no more today but her government has built the country following his ideals. But these developments were destroyed and the lives of people were snatched.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They (the perpetrators) would be tried one day. This is why I want it to be investigated internationally and a fair trial to be held,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said not a single militant incident occurred after the Holey Artisan attack in Bangladesh due to the vigilance of the law enforcement agencies. The law enforcers sacrificed their lives but freed Bangladesh from militancy, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“But today they showed ugly teeths of militancy in the banner of the quota movement,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM seeks public help to resist Jamaat-Shibir as militant organisation:</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said there should be no place for militancy and terrorism in Bangladesh and their main strength is Jamaat-e Islami and Shibir.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“They (Jamaat-Shibir) will be banned under the clause 18 of Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009 so that they won’t have any social dignity,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they would try to carry out destruction again as militants. “At that time, all will have to try to resist them as a militant organisation and save the people (from their hands). All will have to do it in unison,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“There would be no room for militants in the land of Bangladesh. We all will have to stay vigilant in this regard. I seek cooperation from the people of the country to stay vigilant in this matter,” she went on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM blasts intellectuals for supporting movement:</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina questioned what the rationale was for the continuation of movement when 100 percent demand was fulfilled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Noting different brutal incidents carried out in the name of movement, she also questioned what type of mayhem and movement it was.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She criticised a section of intellectuals for supporting the movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Many of our knowleagble personalities, dignitaries and intellectuals continue giving their support to this movement. What support are they giving? The demand has already been fulfilled completely,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said conducting sabotages in this way in the name of a quota movement is nothing but acts of militancy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the outset of the programme, one-minute silence was observed in memory of the departed souls of Father of the Nation Bangabanddhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and other martyrs of the 15th August 1975 carnage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the event, a special prayer was conducted praying for the salvation of the departed souls of the martyrs of the 15th August 1975 carnage and the people who were killed in the recent mayhem centring the movement for quota reform in the public service jobs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AL agriculture and cooperatives secretary Faridun Nahar Laily MP spoke on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Krishak League President Samir Chanda delivered the welcome speech in the event moderated by its general secretary Umme Kulsum. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-01 10:09:43', '2024-08-01 10:09:43'),
(12784, 12784, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations scheduled to be held on August 4 have been postponed due to the unavoidable reasons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The information was revealed here today in a notification signed by Chairman of the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee and also of the Dhaka Education Board Professor Tapan Kumar Sarkar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The postponed exams under all the education boards will be held according to the new schedule from August 11\", said the notification.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The new schedule of the postponed exams will be informed later through the notice.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tapan Kumar Sarkar also requested to take necessary action in this regard.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-01 10:17:46', '2024-08-01 10:17:46');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(12785, 12785, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The month of mourning began today commemorating the brutal assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and most of his family members on August 15, 1975.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The August 15 carnage is the ugliest chapter of the nation\'s history as the self-confessed killers not only assassinated the nation\'s founding father, but also killed 16 other members of his family, friends and relatives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The nation observes with heavy heart the month of August as the month of mourning to recall the barbaric killing on 1975\'s 15 August.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The August 15 carnage martyrs included Bangabandhu\'s wife Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, his sons Sheikh Kamal, Sheikh Jamal and Sheikh Russell, daughters-in-law Sultana Kamal and Rosy Jamal, Bangabandhu\'s brother Sheikh Naser, brother-in-law Abdur Rab Serniabat, nephew and youth leader Sheikh Fazlul Huq Moni, Moni\'s pregnant wife Arzoo Moni and Bangabandhu\'s military secretary Colonel Jamil.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangabandhu\'s two daughters - incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana - escaped the planned assassination as they were visiting Germany at that time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With the killing of Bangabandhu, the greatest Bangalee of all times, a pall of gloom descended and a sense of deep sadness spread among the people in the country and across the globe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The world protested and condemned the killing, saying it is an irreparable loss to millions of people of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The month of August is also black marked with another conspiracy of assassination. The nation cannot ever forget the heinous attempt of killing Sheikh Hasina through grenade attacks in 2004.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The vested quarter, who assassinated Bangabandhu in 1975, also tried to destroy the Awami League (AL) by killing its president Sheikh Hasina with grenades on an anti-terrorism rally at Bangabandhu Avenue here on August 21 in 2004.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina narrowly escaped the attack suffering splinter injuries when 24 of her party men, including AL\'s women affairs secretary Ivy Rahman, were killed and 500 others injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Like in the previous years, different political and socio-cultural organisations, including ruling AL and its associate bodies have chalked out month-long programmes to observe the month of mourning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-01 10:24:03', '2024-08-01 10:24:03'),
(12786, 12786, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing Islami Chhatra Shibir have been banned. Home ministry issued a gazette notification in this regard Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The political activities of Jamaat, Chhatra Shibir and other associate bodies of the organisation has been banned under the section 18 (1) of the anti-terrorism act.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the law ministry sent the file to the home ministry with its legal counsel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These parties cannot do politics under the names when the ban will come into effect, the law minister told the media after sending opinions to the home ministry this noon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on Tuesday, law minister Anisul Huq has said Jamaat will be banned through an executive order by Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, a decision was taken at a meeting of governing Bangladesh Awami League-led 14-Party Alliance to ban Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its student organisation Islami Chhatra Shibir.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Presided over by Awami League president and incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the 14-Party Alliance’s meeting was held at her official residence, Ganabhaban, in Dhaka on Monday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader and 14-Party Alliance coordinator Amir Hossain Amu briefed the newspersons after the meeting at Ganabhaban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Obaidul Quader said, “A decision has been taken at the meeting unanimously to ban the politics of evil forces of Jamaat and Shibir.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The election commission has already scrapped the registration of Jamaat following a verdict of the International Crimes Tribunal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to several sources attending the meeting, prime minister Sheikh Hasina said at the beginning of the meeting that Jamaat and Shibir were behind the recent sabotages, arsons, attacks on police across the country during the quota reforms movement. She had intelligence report on it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier in 2013, following a verdict of the top court, the election commission cancelled registration of Jamaat-e-Islami.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Top leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami were executed on charges of crimes against humanity during the liberation war in 1971.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jamaat appealed challenging against the High Court verdict scraping the registration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On 19 November 2023, the Applleate Division of the Supreme Court rejected the appeal. So the registration remained cancelled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The law ministry made a draft law a few years back to try Jamaat-e-Islami as a party on charges of war crimes. However, there was no progress over the matter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-01 10:51:43', '2024-08-01 10:51:43'),
(12787, 12787, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">President Mohammed Shahabuddin has dissolved the National Parliament following a high-stakes meeting with key stakeholders, including the chiefs of the three armed forces, leaders of various political parties, civil society representatives, and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement was made through a press release from the President’s office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Significant political developments have accompanied this decision. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been released. Moreover, the government has commenced the release of individuals detained in connection with the student movement and various other cases. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-06 10:14:26', '2024-08-06 10:14:26'),
(12788, 12788, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK) Saida Muna Tasneem has expressed her allegiance in advance with the interim government that will be formed soon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said they are waiting to receive formal directives from the interim government to work as they have a protocol to follow in terms of diplomatic affairs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Saida Muna also paid deep respect for those who were killed during the students movement since July 16, prayed for salvation of the departed souls and conveyed her deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She expressed solidarity with the anti-discriminatory students movement and hoped that a just-based country will be rebuilt inspired by the new generation’s movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The High Commissioner made the remarks when Shamsul Alam Liton, the editor of the popular newspaper Saptahik Surma and eminent lawyer, met her in the high commission in London, according to a press release received here on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Liton has worked tirelessly to protect the democracy and human rights of Bangladesh by running from door to door over the past 17 years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Iqbal Ferdous who shared the videos, said he had the privilege of working closely with incredibly talented, humane and dedicated person Liton for about 7-8 years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-07 08:57:07', '2024-08-07 08:57:07'),
(12789, 12789, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The BNP public rally is underway in front of its Nayapaltan central office in the city with participation of tens of thousands of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will address the rally as the chief guest, joining virtually from London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 05 last, the BNP is holding its first public rally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The rally formally began around 2:40 pm on Wednesday (August 07, 2024) with the recitation from the holy Quran.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP leaders and activists have started gathering before the party’s Nayapaltan central office with processions carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders from different parts of Dhaka since morning to join the rally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Senior BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, will also speak at the rally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'Newsdesk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-07 09:04:45', '2024-08-07 09:04:45'),
(12790, 12790, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, who arrived in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon to lead an interim government, said restoring&nbsp; law and order is priority.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Anarchy and disorder are the biggest enemies,” he said at a press briefing at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after his arrival.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He will be sworn in on Thursday night by President Mohammed Shahabuddin.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan welcomed Prof Yunus upon his arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Before leaving Paris, where he had been attending the Olympics, Prof Yunus appealed for calm in Bangladesh amid tensions over the country’s future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Yunus was named as interim leader following talks among military officials, civic leaders and the student activists who led the uprising against Hasina. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-08 09:11:31', '2024-08-08 09:11:31'),
(12791, 12791, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The United States has said that the interim government, to be formed today, should respect democratic principles, rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“And as you heard the Secretary (US Secretary of State Antony Blinken) said yesterday, any decisions that interim government makes should respect democratic principles, rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people,” Matthew Miller, US State Department Spokesperson, said during a regular briefing in Washington on August 7.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller said they think the interim government will play a vital role in establishing long-term peace and political stability in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said they continue to monitor developments in Bangladesh, and have seen the appointment of Prof Muhammad Yunus as the leader of an interim government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to a question on Sheikh Hasina\'s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy’s latest video message, Miller said he does not have any comments on statements made by a private citizen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller also said they have already spoken to the authorities in Bangladesh and what steps the US wants to see moving forward.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller said as the interim government makes decisions moving forward, they want to see them do so in a way that respects democratic principles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy has said democracy and elections in Bangladesh are not possible excluding Bangladesh Awami League which is the biggest and oldest democratic political party.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I will tell those who are currently in power. We also want a democratic, orderly and safe country free from militancy. For that we are ready to discuss with everyone, only if they eliminate militancy and violence. Sheikh Hasina is not dead. We didn\'t go anywhere. Democracy and elections are not possible without the Awami League in Bangladesh,” he said in a video message on Wednesday night.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He urged the party\'s leaders and workers to stand with courage and said, \"We are here (with you).\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus is set to take oath as head of the interim government at Bangabhaban tonight (Thursday).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">President Mohammad Shahabuddin will conduct the oath to Prof Yunus as the chief advisor and other members of the interim administration, said a source speaking on condition of anonymity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, a Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson has said China is closely following the developments in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“As a friendly neighbour and comprehensive strategic cooperative partner of Bangladesh, China sincerely hopes that social stability will be restored soon in the country,” said the Spokesperson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-08 09:15:48', '2024-08-08 09:15:48'),
(12792, 12792, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response to the directive issued to police personnel to return to their respective posts within 24 hours, various segments of society have stepped forward to ensure their safe mobilisation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Citizens from different walks of life, including students, and the general public, are offering support to police members traveling to their workplaces, according to a statement issued by the Police Headquarters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Contrary to recent reports suggesting that police officers are encountering obstacles on their way, the Police Headquarters in Dhaka has confirmed that no such incidents have been verified. “We urge everyone not to be misled by rumours,” said the headquarters in an official release.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The headquarters also emphasized the importance of dismissing unfounded rumours and maintaining focus on the collective goal of ensuring security and order.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-08 09:20:51', '2024-08-08 09:20:51'),
(12793, 12793, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Interim government’s Home Affairs Adviser, Brigadier General (retd.) M Sakhawat Hossain, issued a stern warning on Monday, saying that those involved in the looting of weapons during the quota reform protests must surrender the arms within a week or face severe consequences.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking to journalists at the Combined Military Hospital in Dhaka, where he visited injured Ansar personnel, Hossain emphasized the urgency of the situation. \"The looted weapons must be surrendered to the respective police stations by next Monday. If found later, strict measures will be taken,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He further cautioned those in possession of illegal weapons, giving them a seven-day ultimatum to turn in the arms. \"If you fail to surrender them within the given time, you will face two charges—possession of illegal weapons and possession of prohibited government arms,\" the Adviser warned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing the Awami League, Hossain remarked that the party has every right to reorganize. However, he warned that any attempt to create chaos would have dire consequences. \"The Awami League can reorganize without any issues, but if they try to cause disorder, the outcome will not be favorable,\" he stated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response to another question regarding the Awami League, Hossain advised the party to focus on reorganization and avoid endangering lives. \"Reorganize your party like a proper political organization. When elections come, contest them. But if you dream of counter-revolution, it will result in the loss of thousands of lives,\" he cautioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Highlighting the historical significance of the Awami League, Hossain acknowledged the party’s contributions to the country. \"This is a significant party, and I have a lot of respect for the Awami League. At one time, it was the hope of the Bengalis. Don\'t destroy the legacy of the movements of \'52, \'69, and the Liberation War for personal reasons,\" he emphasized.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hossain also expressed his concern about the loss of lives in recent events. \"We don’t want to see more deaths. Already, 400 to 500, maybe even more, people have died… We restrained the army, instructing them not to open fire because whom would you shoot? You’ve already used the police to kill our own children,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Adviser concluded by urging the Awami League not to destroy the party for personal interests, reminding them of the legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. \"This was our pride, the dream of Bangabandhu. You have no right to destroy it. It is the property of Bangladesh. If anyone thinks they can bring about a counter-revolution, it will require the blood of thousands. If you are willing to take that responsibility, then there’s nothing more I can do,\" Hossain added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-12 09:41:15', '2024-08-12 09:41:15'),
(12794, 12794, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday urged the interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus to create a conducive environment for holding a national election as soon as possible.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also expressed hope that the new interim government will be able to arrange a free and fair election to establish an elected government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I request them (interim government) to create proper ground for an election as soon as possible,” the BNP leader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the election is necessary to arrange after overcoming all dangers to build a genuinely free Bangladesh and establish a government of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fakhrul made these remarks while speaking to reporters after placing a wreath at the grave of Arafat Rahman Koko, the late younger son of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, at Banani Graveyard on the occasion of his 55th birth anniversary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also urged the people of the country to remain vigilant against any attempts by the ousted autocrat to undermine the students and popular movement for change.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I ask all of you to be very vigilant to free the country from the fear of counter-revolution, and take all measures to resist the conspiracy that was started (by the fallen dictator) staying on the streets... This is my expectation from the people,” said Fakhrul Islam.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina\'s speech is a hollow sound:</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When his attention was drawn to Sheikh Hasina’s remark published in an Indian media that she was ousted because she had not agree to give (USA) St. Martin island, the BNP Secretary General said, \"Bakowaz (a hollow sound). It is her characteristic to blame others when she fails.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“I want to make it clear that it was a spontaneous mass upsurge of the students, the people and citizens... Now our only task is to consolidate that mass upsurge,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Citing that Sheikh Hasina and her men are&nbsp; now trying to mislead the people, the BNP leader called upon the people not to be misled rather work unitedly to consolidate the freedom that was achieved through this mass upsurge.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About Indian media reports over attacks on minorities, Mirza Fakhrul said these are vague propaganda. “They are running this false, fabricated, baseless propaganda to undermine this mass upsurge of Bangladesh and make this newly formed interim government a failure,” he said, adding that he believes that the people of Bangladesh and the world won\'t trust it (the propaganda).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier in the morning, thousands of BNP leaders and activists gathered at Banani graveyard as wreaths were placed at the Koko\'s grave by different Dhaka city units of BNP and its associate bodies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Begum Khaleda Zia’s youngest son Arafat Rahman Koko was born on August 12, 1969.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP Secretary General praised Arafat Rahman Koko\'s role in the field of sports.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Koko had succumbed to torture. He had to go abroad due to the torture of the one-eleven government and later died without treatment.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council members Amanullah Aman, Abdus Salam and Farhad Halim Donar, BNP Central leaders Sultan Salauddin Tuku, Shamimur Rahman Shamim, Rafique Sikder and SM Jahangir, Jumbo Dal leader Nurul Islam Nayan, and BNP Dhaka city unit leader Saiful Islam Nirob, among others, were present.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-12 09:47:27', '2024-08-12 09:47:27'),
(12795, 12795, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Chief Adviser of the interim government, Dr Muhammad Yunus, will hold a meeting with BNP senior leaders Monday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP standing committee members, led by its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, will join the meeting at the Chief Adviser’s residence at 4pm, said party media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Dr Yunus invited the BNP leaders for the meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This will be the first formal meeting between the head of the interim government and BNP leaders since its formation on August 8.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country after resigning in the face of a student-led mass movement, the interim government was fomed under the leadership of Nobel-winning economist Professor Muhammad Yunus.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-12 09:51:00', '2024-08-12 09:51:00'),
(12796, 12796, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Newly appointed Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed today said the students have sparked a great awakening against discrimination.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In the past, injustice was considered as justice. The students have changed that. They have sparked a great awakening against discrimination. I will carry out the responsibility that has been bestowed on my shoulders as a result of the revolution of the students,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The chief justice said these in response to the felicitation accorded to him by Attorney General\'s office and Supreme Court Bar Association.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Appellate Division\'s Justice Md Ashfaqul Islam and judges of the High Court Division and apex court lawyers were present on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed right now we are standing on the ruins and we have to make a fresh start from here, adding, \"Stern action will now be taken against any unjust from now on. We would carry out our responsibility with honesty in respect of the victory attained through unlimited sacrifices made by the students and common people.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman in his speech said he hopes that the newly appointed Chief Justice (Syed Refaat Ahmed) will not deviate as the guardian of the constitution in protecting people\'s rights and establish democracy in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"You are the first chief justice in the independent and sovereign Bangladesh achieved through the second war of liberation. It is not like that only the president gave you the appointment, there is a heroic tale of timeless immortal poetry of streets stained by the bloods of hundreds of students behind your appointment. It is a rare event in world history,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This Bangladesh reflects the language of protest coming from the sobbing of destitution of many families, curse of many of those victims, who have been accused in many fake cases even after their deaths, anguish of the families of those people, who have fell victim to extrajudicial killings in more than last one decade. All those martyrs including Abu Sayeed, Mugdho and Faraz had one expectation that the guardianship of Supreme Court under your leadership gets revealed. I hope that dream will get fulfilled under your leadership,\" Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The attorney general further said he hopes that judiciary gets free of syndicate and a clean-up campaign is conducted in Supreme Court administration to get rid of all the corruption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier the chief justice went to National Memorial in Savar and paid his homage to the martyrs of the Liberation War around 7am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-12 09:57:49', '2024-08-12 09:57:49'),
(12797, 12797, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Law Adviser of the interim government, Prof Asif Nazrul on Wednesday said that all cases filed during the student movement across the country will be withdrawn within August 31.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said this while briefing reporters at the Secretariat in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Law Adviser said the cases filed in Dhaka during the student-led movement will be withdrawn by tomorrow (August 15).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asif Nazrul informed that cases filed against journalist Rozina Islam and Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna will also be withdrawn.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moreover, Rozina\'s passport has been returned to her, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asif Nazrul said that the killings during the student movement--between July 1 and August 5--will be tried at the International Crimes Tribunal and efforts are being made to investigate the incidents under the supervision of the United Nations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The adviser also said, \"Even though journalists have provided evidence of false cases in their reports, unfortunately, our judiciary did not notice it. It was very surprising to me. Allah has given me the opportunity to look into this.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He informed that all false cases will be withdrawn.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked about providing legal assistance to the victims of the ‘Aynaghor’, the law adviser said the victims have the opportunity to come to the International Crimes Tribunal and lodge cases.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Addressing enforced disappearances as a crime against humanity, he said, “Anyone can file a case with the International Crimes Tribunal. The state can, so can the victims. Later, we can also take initiative at the state level. Right now, we are focused on the July killings.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the issue of enforced disappearances is very important, he said, adding that he is not underplaying it in any way.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The law adviser said he has directed all officials of the judiciary and their family members to submit reports about their properties within 10 working days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“In consultation with the Supreme Court, all judicial officers and their family members have been ordered to submit statements on their movable and immovable assets at home and abroad within 10 working days,” he added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-14 19:11:28', '2024-08-14 19:11:28'),
(12798, 12798, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">After the White House, the US Department of State has also trashed reports that claimed the United States was involved in former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s resignation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"That’s laughable,\" Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters at a regular briefing in Washington on August 13.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said any implication that the United States was involved in Sheikh Hasina’s resignation is absolutely false.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have seen a lot of disinformation in recent weeks,\" Patel said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said they remain incredibly committed to strengthening information integrity across the digital ecosystem, especially with their partners in South Asia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the White House ruled out any involvement of the United States behind the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government, stressing that it is false.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So, we have had no involvement at all. Any — any reports or rumours that the United States government was involved in these — in these events is simply, simply false. That is not true,\" Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at a press briefing on August 12.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said this is a choice for and by the Bangladeshi people.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We believe that the Bangladeshi people should determine the future of the Bangladeshi government, and that’s where we stand,\" said the White House Press Secretary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Any allegations, certainly, we will continue to say, and I have said here, is simply not true,\" she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A journalist mentioned that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reported to allies that she was thrown out — or forced to be out of power because the U.S. wanted to have one of the islands given to them - the United States of America.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And since — because they didn’t agree to it, she was forced to resign, the questioner mentioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The press secretary said they are going to continue to monitor the situation.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"43\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-14 19:14:34', '2024-08-14 19:14:34'),
(12800, 12800, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">British High Commissioner in Dhaka Sarah Cooke today said that the UK welcomed Bangladesh\'s interim government led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus as the new government has Britain\'s support.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The interim government has the UK\'s support as it works to restore peace and order, ensure accountability and chart a peaceful pathway to an inclusive, prosperous and democratic future for the people of Bangladesh,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Cooke made the remarks when she called on the interim government\'s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the foreign ministry in the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the meeting, the High Commissioner and the Adviser discussed how the UK can support the interim government\'s work towards a democratic and prosperous future and other issues of mutual interest, including Rohingya, a press release issued by the British High Commission here said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They also discussed the strong and enduring relationship between Bangladesh and the UK, cemented by their deep people-to-people ties and shared Commonwealth values.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have been deeply saddened by the violence and all loss of life in recent weeks. We recognise the bravery of the students and many others who through peaceful protest called for a different future for Bangladesh,\" Cooke said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-14 19:17:27', '2024-08-14 19:17:27'),
(12801, 12801, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Interim Government Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s dictatorship has destroyed every institution of the country in the effort to stay in power. The judiciary has been broken, he said while briefing diplomats stationed in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chief Adviser said he has taken up the responsibility at the request of the students. He paid deep respect to those who made supreme sacrifices in the recent student movement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The briefing began at InterContinental hotel at around 1pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This was the first briefing by the Chief Adviser to diplomats stationed in Dhaka since the interim government\'s inception.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof Yunus conveyed to the international community that the interim government is committed to holding free, fair, and participatory elections soon once “deep reforms” are done.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We will hold a free, fair and participatory election as soon as we can complete our mandate to carry out vital reforms in our Election Commission, judiciary, civil administration, security forces and media,\" the Chief Adviser said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said the interim government will make sincere efforts to promote national reconciliation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He sought the international community’s support to build Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam briefed the reporters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chief Adviser conveyed to the diplomats that it was the second revolution after 1971 and the previous government left the country in a “complete mess.” Banks were robbed through political patronization, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof Yunus said they want to build a poverty-free and prosperous Bangladesh, adding that they are now close to normalcy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Over 50 diplomats, including representatives of the UN agencies, attending the briefing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Chief Adviser exchanged pleasantries with diplomats at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Public Diplomacy wing Director General Seheli Sabrin and Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir were also present at the briefing.UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-18 19:18:25', '2024-08-18 19:18:25'),
(12802, 12802, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Interim Government’s Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan said on Sunday that Dhaka Metro Rail services will resume within seven days max.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He came up with the announcement during an introductory meeting with officials at the ministry in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The adviser emphasized that there would be a renewed focus on development projects, ensuring that progress is not limited to Dhaka alone but also extends to neglected areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He stressed the importance of cost-efficiency in every project, noting that instructions have been given to adhere to budget constraints.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the procurement process, the adviser indicated that single-source procurement, which had been prevalent, will be discontinued. Instead, there will be a move towards competitive tendering to prevent favoritism and ensure transparency.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also addressed the issue of inadequate parking spaces on major roads in Dhaka, directing that measures be taken to address this. Vehicles will not be allowed to stop arbitrarily, aiming to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition to focusing on Dhaka and major cities, he underscored the need for development in areas with high pedestrian traffic and addressed the high cost of road construction in Bangladesh, asserting that this perception must be changed. The same contractor should not be assigned all projects; instead, contracts will be awarded to those who perform well.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the irregularities in the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), the adviser shared his own experience of inconvenience.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He recounted how he had to take a week off to obtain a driving license, criticizing the lengthy process and vowing to address such issues to prevent future harassment for citizens.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2024-08-18 19:22:29', '2024-08-18 19:22:29');
