The Colours of

Newsletter of the Embassy of Bangladesh, Stockholm Volume IV| Issue II | March - 2010

Inside this Issue: Perspective...... : 02 Feature...... : 10 Current Affairs...... : 03 Did U Know?...... : 12 Foreign Affairs...... : 04 History & Culture...... : 13 Special Focus...... : 05 Embassy Activities ...... : 14 Business, Economy, Trade & Investment. : 07 Important Links...... : 16

PerspectivePerspective

First Word 39th Anniversary of the Independence of Bangla- 14 April to celebrate the day, there were numbers of desh came to us with renewed hope and aspiration. and cultural programme organized by Day before Bangladesh went into celebrating the them to welcome the year 1417. Independence and National Day on 26 March, The War Crimes Tribunal was formed and declared by the Our celebration was not over with those special days government to try war criminals of 1971 War of only. Bangladesh has, for the first time, received Liberation. Frustrated people of Bangladesh, who sovereign credit ratings during this period. Standard and have been waiting for so long after the independence Poor rated Bangladesh BB- and Moody’s Investors to see the war criminals brought to justice, has seen Service rated Ba3 which put Bangladesh in front of all the light of hope after the formation of the tribunal other countries in South Asia except emerging . along with an investigation team. This was a formal recognition of the fiscal discipline, macroeconomic and financial stability that is prevailing We have celebrated two more joyous events during in the country. Hopefully, this formal recognition will this March-April period. On 17 March, we have boost confidence of foreign investors to invest more in celebrated 90th Birth Anniversary of Father of the Bangladesh and would ensure more access for Nation Bangabandhu and Bangladesh to international credit. We believe that the on 14th April, Pohela , we welcomed our trend of development in Bangladesh will continue and Bangla 1417. As this Pohela Boishakh is even accelerate and we shall be able to come back to the biggest celebration event of Bangladesh, our you every time with news of new hope. expatriates living abroad never fall behind joining the celebration. While expatriates in Sweden joined Imtiaz Ahmed enthusiastically to our arrangement at the embassy on Ambassador & Chief Editor

Editor’s Note Shuvo Nabobarsho, Happy Bangla New Year, 1417. sured of increased investment in our gas and energy sec- Bangladesh has received Pohela Boishakh, the first tor. Foreign investment is expected pick up after receiv- day of Bangla New Year, the 14th of April, with ing good credit rating from S&P and Moody’s. South colour and festivity. We have been recharged with Korean investors already have shown their interest to new hopes in the New Year and came back with invest in Bangladesh’s shipbuilding sector as well as big more news and articles that will remind our readers infrastructure projects. An Iranian car manufacturer the core strength of Bangladesh as a nation. SIPA has planned to establish a car manufacturing fac- tory in Bangladesh labeled as made by D-8 and to be During this period our Hon’ble Prime Minister sold primarily in the market of D-8 countries and then went on a very important state visit to the excess productions to other places. We hope its not China which opened many new windows of coopera- far when Bangladesh people will drive cars made in tion between China and Bangladesh and furthered the Bangladesh. ties between the two countries. Danish Minister for In the end, I wish you all a very nice and sweet summer Development visited Bangladesh with business and time as sweet as famous and mangos of Bang- industry delegations which will enhance the remain- ladesh that makes summer heat bearable for us. ing close tie between the business sectors of the two countries. US Deputy Secretary of State James B Khandker Masudul Alam Steinberg during his recent visit to Bangladesh as- First Secretary

2 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Current Affairs

Hon’ble Prime Minister Visits China

China will allow duty free access of Bangladeshi products to its markets and increase its supports for the country’s efforts to face floods and other natural calamities caused by global warming. Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao gave the assurance during official talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister H.E. Sheikh Hasina held at Great Hall in Beijing on 18 March 2010. In the meeting, the Bangladesh Prime Minister sought short and long term Chinese assistance, grants and approval of State to State loan for implementing seven projects in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Hu Jintao Bangladesh’s agriculture, power and infrastructure sectors. She sought Chinese support and cooperation dum of Understanding (MoU) aiming at further in modernizing flood forecasting and warning centre, enhancing cooperation for Bangladesh’s river dredging projects, satellite launching and setting economic, technical, infrastructure and energy up remote sensing satellite, increasing stipend for sectors. The agreements are economic and technical Bangladeshi students upto 150 and providing cooperation agreement with substantial grants, frame- scholarship facilities to the Foreign Service officials. work agreement for construction of Shahjalal Fertil- izer Factory, Agreement for Construction of the Referring to defence cooperation, Prime Minister seventh Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge and the Sheikh Hasina requested the Chinese govern- MoU on Bangladesh-China Cooperation in oil and gas ment to provide two frigates with three helicop- sectors. ters under long term loan assistance and called for extending support to her government’s The Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also endeavours in tackling the challenges of climate sought Chinese cooperation to construct a deep-sea change. Giving emphasis on regional cooperation, port in and establish road link between HE Sheikh Hasina said, concerted efforts have to be Chittagong and Kunming. “China can be benefited taken to eliminate terrorism and militancy from the by using the deep seaport while all neighbouring region. The Chinese Prime Minister assured her to countries also can use it,” H.E. Sheikh Hasina said provide his country’s support for these sectors for as a key speaker at the Bangladesh-China Business Fo- overall development of Bangladesh. Regarding the rum on 18 March 2010. The Prime Minister invited climate change issue, the Chinese Premier appreci- Chinese investors to put money in Bangladesh's ated the role of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her promising sectors like textiles, small machineries, prudent leadership in those forums where she raised fertilisers, footwear and ceramics. She also en- the vulnerability of the affected countries and sought couraged investment in IT outsourcing, tourism, international support to tackle the climate change healthcare, education, power, telecommunica- challenges. tions, infrastructure development, gas and energy, agro-based industries and pharmaceuticals.

In addition, on 18 March 2010, Bangladesh and For more information about the Prime Minister's Office of the government of the China signed three treaties and one Memoran- people's Republic of Bangladesh, please visit the website www.pmo.gov.bd

KALEIDOSCOPE 3 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Foreign Affairs

Foreign Minister on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

The Hon’ble Foreign Minister Her Excellency Dr. Dipu Moni said that the Bangladesh government is working to build a society free of exploitation with human rights and fundamental freedoms protected and justice as well as equality secured by 2021. She said this while speaking at the high-level segment of the Human Rights Council in Geneva on 01 March 2010.

The Foreign Minister said that the Vision 2021 of the Bangladesh Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni. Government aims to build a society free from ex- ploitation, where human rights and fundamental in infant and maternal mortality rates. The govern- freedoms are protected, and justice and equality ment has undertaken a programme to establish one are secured. She said Bangladesh is making ef- community healthcare centre for every 6,000 people forts to build a society where all can fully enjoy across the country. H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni said that human rights—civil and political, social, eco- Bangladesh high importance to guaranteeing nomic and cultural as well as right to develop- food security for its people as an essential precon- ment. Describing eradication of poverty as a top de- dition for ensuring their socio-economic develop- velopment agenda of the government she said that ment. However, the Foreign Minister mentioned Bangladesh now focuses more on empowering the that the government measures in the health, agri- poor, especially the vulnerable segments of the soci- culture sectors and ensuring food security which ety, including women, children and the elderly. H.E. is being challenged by the unabated climate Dr. Dipu Moni mentioned that education, par- change. She expressed her concern due to the ticularly for girls, is a priority of the government. growing incidence of climate change induced in- Primary education has been made free with free ternal displacement of people and the conse- books, and compulsory, for all children; provision quence of loss of livelihood to climate change. has been made for free education for girls up to class 12; and, stipend for girls in rural secondary “We all belong to a global village where we must schools. Bangladesh has been successful in live and work together. Our lives and our worlds achieving gender parity in net enrolment in pri- are intertwined. Let us adopt a common resolve mary and secondary schools—a key Millennium in facing today's challenges. Let us share each Development Goal. The government has a plan to other's responsibility, burden and prosperity. Let provide free tuition for girls up to under-graduate us strive to leave a more harmonious world for level. our children and our grandchildren by reaching out to one another” she further addressed to the The Hon’ble Foreign Minister mentioned that provi- world leaders. sion of basic healthcare is a fundamental right. This is an area where the government is keen to For more information about Bangladesh Foreign Minstry and make progress. Provision of quality pre-natal and its activities, please visit the website www.mofa.gov.bd post-natal services has resulted in significant decline

4 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Special Focus

H PAHELA BAISHAK

– Baishakhi Mela (Baishakhi Fair) : A mirror of Rich Bengali Culture

Fairs are an inseparable part of the traditional culture of the people of Bangladesh. or the Bangla New Year's Day is celebrated in a festive manner in both Bangladesh and the West state of India. In Bangladesh Pahela Baishakh is a national holiday, and usually falls on .

Under the Mughals, agricultural taxes were collected Musical function-at dawn at (Chhayanat) according to the Hijri (Arabic) calendar. However, as the Hijri calender is a lunar calender, it was found that from 's ascension to the throne in 1556AD. the agricultural tax collection period determined in the The New Year subsequently became known as the Hijri calender did not mostly concide with the Bengali year. harvesting season. As a result, farmers were hard- Celebrations of Pahela Baishakh started from Akbar's pressed to pay taxes out of season. In order to reign. It was customary to clear up all the annual dues streamline tax collection, the Mughal Emperor Akbar on the last day of Chaitra (last month of the Bengali ordered a reform of the calendar. Accordingly, year or calendar). On the next day, or the first day of Fatehullah Shirazi, a renowned scholar and astronomer, the new year, landlords would entertain their tenants formulated the Bangla calendar on the basis of the solar with sweets. On this occasion there used to be fairs year. The new Fasli San (agricultural year) was and other festivals. In due course the occasion introduced on 10/11 March 1584 AD, but was dated became part of domestic and social life and turned into a day of merriment.

The main event of the day was to open a hal- khata or new book of accounts. This was entirely a financial affair. In villages, towns and cities, traders and businessmen closed their old account books and opened new ones. They used to treat their customers with sweets and renewed their business relationship with them. This tradition is still practised, especially by jewellers. New year's festivals are closely linked with rural life in Bangladesh.

KALEIDOSCOPE 5 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 – Baishakhi Mela (Baishakhi Fair): A mirror of Rich Bengali Culture

On the day everything is called ‘panjabi’ & thoroughly scrubbed and ’ pyjama’. Many cleaned. People bathe early in townspeople start the the morning, dress in fine day with the traditional clothes and then go to visit breakfast of relatives, friends and (cooked rice soaked neighbours. Special foods are overnight in water), prepared to entertain guests. green chillies, onion Baishakhi fairs are held across and fried hilsa fish. the country. Various agricultural products, garden & The most colourful agro-tools, traditional handicrafts, toys, cosmetics as spectacular and Bangla New Year's Day festival in well as various kinds of food and sweets are sold at Bangladesh takes place in , the capital. Large these fairs. The fairs also provide entertainment with numbers of people gather early in the morning under singers and dancers staging (a form of drama), pala the Banyan Tree at Ramna Park where Chhayanat gan, (songs) etc. They present folk songs as well artistes herald the day with Tagore's famous song as , marfati, murshidi (mystic songs). Plays based on welcoming Baisakh Esho he Baishakh esho esho folklore, like Laily-Majnu, Yusuf-Zulekha and - (Come, O Baisakh, come). (love-stories based on legends and mythologies) are staged. Among other attractions at these fairs are For the last couple of years, the expatriate puppet shows. in different countries including Sweden have also been arranging ‘Baishakhi fairs’ during the month of April and May. Each year, these fairs are enthusiastically visited by men, women and children of Bangladesh origin. Traditional Bangladeshi foods, snacks, sweets, traditional dresses, decoration pieces, ornaments, etc., are sold in these fairs. Cultural functions, featuring dances and songs, are also arranged, besides these fairs to celebrate the Bangla New Year.

Nowadays, observance of Pahela Baishakh has become popular in the cities too. People gather early in the morning under a big tree or on the bank of a lake or river to witness the sunrise. Artistes present songs to welcome the New Year. People from all walks of life wear traditional Bengali dresses: young women wear white sarees with red borders and adorn themselves with bangles, flowers and ‘tip’(also known as ‘bindi’: i.e. dots between eyebrows). Men wear traditional dress

6 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Business, Economy, Trade, Event and Investment BUSINESS Economy & Investment News

‘S&P’ and Moody’s rating to help Bangladesh attract more investment

Bangladesh has got its first rating as it reflects the economic parameters of the sovereign credit rating that country and the private sector will now get advantage will give it much needed in getting foreign loans and it will reduce import and access to foreign financial export costs. “The rating also enables the government markets and will make it a lucrative destination for to raise low-cost capital in the overseas financial mar- foreign investors. Global agency Standard & Poor’s kets and further diversify its funding sources,” he after analyzing the macro and micro economic con- added. ditions of the country has issued it the rating 'BB-' for long term and 'B' for short term. It says the coun- In a separate report, Global try’s outlook is stable. “We believe that Bangladesh's rating agency Moody’s In- economy is largely free of macroeconomic imbalances vestors Service has assigned in spite of its low income level, relatively narrow eco- a sovereign rating of Ba3 to nomic profile, and significant fiscal constraints,” said Bangladesh, for a stable S&P sovereign credit analyst Mr. Agost Benard. “The outlook of the financial sector. The rating placed current account is balanced, the flow of remittances is Bangladesh second in south Asia after the major strong, the growth of the economy is stable over the last emerging economy of neighboring India. Speak- several years, farm output is better and foreign exchange ing on the Moody’s rating on 12 April 2010, Bangla- reserves are also healthy,” he said while releasing the desh Bank Governor Dr. Atiur Rahman said that the credit rating report. At a press briefing on April 06, rating was the result of dynamic RMG export of the 2010 the Hon’ble Finance Minister H.E. Abul Maal Ab- country, large remittance flow, minimal foreign com- dul Muhit said that the government is satisfied with the mercial borrowing and debt-servicing profile.

US to invest more in gas and power sectors of Bangladesh

The United States will invest between US and Bangladesh will be more in Bangladesh's impor- further strengthened. She also said tant sectors including gas and that poverty is the biggest enemy of power and will continue to this region and that Bangladesh work together closely to check wishes to work with everyone to terrorism and protect human eradicate it. rights. US Deputy Secretary of State H.E. Mr. James B. Mr. Steinberg highly appreciated Prime Steinberg said this when he paid US Deputy Secretary of State H.E. Mr. James B Minister Sheikh Hasina for her prudent Steinberg calls on with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a courtesy call on Hon’ble Prime leadership in different international fo- Minister H.E. Sheikh Hasina at her office here on 22 rums in tackling the adverse impact of climate change April 2010. and her government's steps to check terrorism and ensure good governance. He said the US will expe- About the US investment in Bangladesh, the dite its support to Bangladesh's economic sector and Hon’ble Prime Minister told Steinberg that the US provide assistance for protecting human rights and investment in Bangladesh is rising and relations curbing terrorism.

KALEIDOSCOPE 7 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

BUSINESS Business & Investment News

Denmark to invest & continue development cooperation with Bangladesh

The Danish Minister for Development Coopera- private sector tion, H.E. Mr. Søren Pind, visited Bangladesh on development 10th – 13th April 2010, accompanied by a delegation and business from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, cooperation in Confederation of Danish Industry and a Danish Bangladesh, Business delegation. The visit included bilateral talks which should with the Government of Bangladesh and meetings with be further ex- civil society and private sector representatives. Visits plored," Mr. Hon’ble Foreign Minister Dr. Dipu Moni and H.E. Mr. Søren Pind were made to private companies in Dhaka and Chit- Pind said while tagong and to local communities in Chittagong Hill addressing an inaugural ceremony of Bangla- Tracts as well as to a madrasa school in Dhaka. desh-Denmark Match-Making Event. A business delegation of more than 10 Danish companies from the energy and environment sectors and Denmark assured Points to Ponder Bangladesh of provid- Bangladeshi businessmen shared their com- ing more assistance in − Bangladesh attaches great importance to the rela- panies' experience aiming to boost up in- tions with Denmark and considers Denmark as power, energy, ship- a dependable friend and development partner. vestment especially in the energy sector at building and trade and − Bangladesh and Denmark enjoy excellent bilat- the match-making event. The Danish Min- eral relations that are characterized by friendly ister said they have been considering Bang- business sectors for the feelings, commonality of views, economic coopera- socioeconomic devel- tion and increasing bilateral trade. ladesh as an important business and trade − In the near future, more high level bilateral visits partner with growing potential for business opment. The assurance between the two countries would take place be- came from the Danish tween Bangladesh and Denmark. cooperation and joint ventures. Mr. Pind Development and Coop- said Bangladesh has a skilled labor force eration Minister called on Hon’ble Prime Minister H.E. with competitive wages and significant potential for Sheikh Hasina at her office on 13 April 2010. During developing new exporting sectors to the international the meeting, they discussed bilateral issues, including markets. Danish investment in Bangladesh's private sector and expansion of trade and business between the two coun- The Hon’ble Commerce Minister H.E: Mr. Fa- tries. ruk Khan urged the Danish investors to exploit their vast experience of wind energy in the While visit in Dhaka, country. "The Danish companies can in- H.E. Mr. Søren Pind vest in the wind energy sector in the coun- said that Danish try's costal areas" he added. The Commerce companies are keen Minister hoped that the match-making event to explore options for would yield very positive business opportuni- outsourcing and joint ties for Bangladesh. H.E.Faruk Khan said that ventures in Bangla- Bangladesh is a country of hard workers. It desh. "There is H.E. Søren Pind meeting with communities in has a large market. He urged the investors Chittagong Hill much potential for for more investment in energy, ship- building and IT sectors.

8 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

BUSINESS Investment & Event News

Dhaka, Beijing agree on closer trade and investment ties

Bangladesh and China will On 18 March 2010, the two sides signed three take active measures to ex- accords aimed at strengthening economic and pand bilateral trade and technical cooperation, a framework agreement on ease the trade imbalance. Shahjalal fertiliser factory and an agreement on a This came during a joint 7th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge. A statement, released on memorandum of understanding was also signed March 19, 2010 after Hon’ble Prime Minister H.E. on oil and energy ties. Dhaka and Beijing also Sheikh Hasina's talks with Chinese leaders in Bei- agreed to enhance transport links and to continue to jing, said China will offer preferential tariff treat- explore possibility of building road and rail links be- ment to more Bangladeshi products and continue tween the two countries. China also agreed to pro- to boost bilateral investment and trade. China ex- vide assistance for dredging of riverbeds. In addition, pressed its firm commitment to continue to offer assis- the two countries said they would strengthen coop- tance to Bangladesh in support of its economic and so- eration on water resources management, hydrological cial development. Bangladesh also sought Chinese sup- data sharing, on flood control and disaster reduction, port in Bangladesh's efforts to tackle climate change and and enhance exchanges between technical and mana- make Bangladesh a modern digital nation. gerial personnel of agriculture.

Korea to invest in different sectors of Bangladesh

The Hon’ble Prime Minister Her Excellency ple are very hardworking and law-abiding. The South Sheikh Hasina invited Korean entrepreneurs to Korean envoy assured the Prime Minister of further invest in Bangladesh's power, leather, infrastruc- expediting its cooperation in Bangladesh's Informa- ture development, textiles, jute goods, deep-sea tion Technology (IT) and other development sectors. fishing and shipbuilding sectors that hold out huge In a separate news South Korean investors have business prospects. She made the call when outgoing shown their interest to invest in Bangladesh's Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Suk-Bum Park shipbuilding sector as well as mega- paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister at her official constructions, city-planning, renewable energy, on March 04, 2010. During the meeting, the Prime nuclear power plant, satellite power plant, car- Minister also said Korea could recruit engineers and IT bon dioxide neutralization, water logging solu- experts from Bangladesh, saying that Bangladeshi peo- tions and reduction of greenhouse gas emission.

BATEXPO‐2010

Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers & Exporters opportunity for apparel and other buyers to mingle Association (BGMEA) is going to organize the 21st around the same roof and choose their business Bangladesh Apparel and Textile Exhibition partners.

‘BATEXPO-2010’ from 25-27 November, 2010 at the Business forums, associations, companies, trade Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, Dhaka, bodies and investors of the Nordic countries are Bangladesh. BATEXPO is one of the largest exposi- welcome to take part in the BATEXPO-2010 in tions in the Asia-Pacific region organized by BGMEA Bangladesh. More information about the event will since 1989 as per its trade promotion. This is a unique be found www.bgmea.com.bd

KALEIDOSCOPE 9 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Feature

Destination: The

- The Largest Mangrove Forest in the World & Home to the Royal

The Sundarbans, a World Heritage site, is com- posed of three wildlife sanctuaries, namely the Sundarbans East Wildlife Sanctuary, Sundarban South Wildlife Sanctuary and Sundarbans West Wildlife Sanctuary. The total area of the World Heritage Site is 1400 sq. km., out of which 910 sq. km. is land area and 490 sq. km. is water. A com- plex network of tidal waterways, mudflats and small islands with salt-tolerant mangrove forest, make up the three sanctuaries.

The area has been recognized globally for its impor- all bird species found in Bangladesh. Of the 35 tance as a reservoir of biodiversity. The mangrove mangrove plant-species spotted in the whole world, supports a unique assemblage of flora and fauna, 14 are found in the Sundarbans. The total area of the including charismatic mega - fauna like the Royal Sundarbans is 5772.85 sq.km. The forest occupies Bengal Tiger, the estuarine crocodile and the 4016.85 sq.km. of land while rivers, canals and chan- river dolphin or susuk. The Sundari tree, nels occupy 1756 sq.km. after which the Sundarbans is named, is native to this forest. The mangrove forest in the Sundarbans, particu- A visit to Bangladesh would remain incomplete if larly in the three wildlife sanctuaries, acts as a the Sundarbans did not appear in the itinerary. It is good nursery and potential breeding ground for situated in the southwest corner of Bangladesh. It shrimps, prawns and many other edible fish. For is the largest mangrove forest in the world, criss- its outstanding natural value, the World Heritage crossed by creeks and Committee of the UNESCO inscribed the canals creeping around Sundarbans of Bangladesh in the World Heritage thousand of islets that list in their 21st session in 1997 and accordingly swell and sink with the the Government of the People's Republic of tide in the Bay. The Bangladesh declared the Sundarbans as a World cluster of isles, the water Heritage Site in 1999. bodies and mangrove together support an eco- system at once unique with the result that the Sundarbans could be easily developed into a treas- ure house of biodiversity. It is home to 80% of rep- tiles, 40% of mammals' species and about 50% of Mangrove forest - the largest in the world

10 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

The Sundarbans – The largest mangrove forest in the world & home to the Royal Bengal Tiger

The attractions of this forest are varied and many. Wild, unspoiled and unpolluted beaches are scattered here and there along the borderline of the Bay. The flora of the Sundarbans includes Sundari, Keora, Gewa, Golpata, Goran and Passur trees. The fauna can boast the legendary Royal Bengal tiger spotted deer, squirrel, rhesus monkey, barking deer, wild boar, dolphin, etc. Of the reptile species, there are the estuarine crocodiles, pythons, lizards, flap-shelled spotted turtles and green turtles. Spotted deer at Sundarbans For accommodation, tourist may contact The fish population comprises vetki, rekha, boncha, faissa, Bangladesh Parjatan (Tourism) Corporation. pangash, ritha, silon, hilsha, catfish, lobster, shrimp, prawn, etc. Mongla Port Authority has comfortable three- The forest is a storied Rest House in Hiron Point and there is birdwatchers' also Forest Department’s Rest House located in paradise as it is Katka. Besides, a number of private hotels, guest and the abode of rest-houses are available for tourists. Prior reservation varieties of rare is advisable. One may contact Bangladesh Parjatan and colourful Corporation for detailed information about the visits birds like the to the Sundarbans. pond heron,

Golpata (Nypa fruiticans) of Sundarbans kingfisher, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation cattle egret, little egret, golden plover, white-beaked 233, Airport Road, vulture, fishing eagle, white-breasted eagle, red jungle Tejgaon, Dhaka - 1215 Bangladesh fowl and so on. The noteworthy beauty spots of the

Sundarbans are Katka, Kachikhali, Karamjal. Nilkamal, Hironpoint, Dublar Char, etc. Phone : +880-2-9120392 Fax : +880-2-8126501 E-mail : [email protected] How to Reach & Where to Stay: Website : www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd The best time to visit the Sundarbans is from November to March. Exciting honey collection season is during April-May. Hunting is prohibited by law in the country for the preservation of wild life. Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. Boats, speed boats, country boats as well as mechanized vessels from the Mongla Port Authority might be hired for visiting the Sundarbans. From Dhaka, tourists may travel by air, or by road to Khulna, the gateway to the Sundarbans.

KALEIDOSCOPE 11 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

• Bangladesh has become the highest troops and police contributing country in UN blue helmet missions with engagement of 10,574 Bangladeshi peacekeepers in troubled regions across the world, according to a statement of the Bangladesh’s permanent mission in United Nations. Until now Bangladesh topped the list of troops contributing countries while it was in second position in terms of number of policemen in the peacekeeping missions.

The statement also revealed that three more Bangladeshi “formed police units” were expected to join the UN missions to raise the number of police peacekeepers to 2,133. Moreover, the first Bangladeshi women police contingent was kept ready to join the UN mission. Bangladeshi peacekeepers so far served in 12 out of 16 UN peacekeeping missions.

• Bangladesh has made important gains in economic freedom scorecards, according to a report released jointly by the Heritage Foundation and the Wall Street Journal in USA. The report- 2010 Index of Economic Freedom-released on April 15, 2010 appreciated Bangladesh's significant increase in its level of economic freedom and its continued high growth rate over the years defying calamities and exigencies.

• Bangladesh is taking various necessary steps in its way toward realizing ‘Digital Bangladesh’, Bangladesh Post Office has planned to turn its 8,500 rural post offices across the country into ‘Post-e-centre’ with the facility of offering various new digital services aiming at reducing urban-rural digital divide. The primary objective of the rural ‘Post e-center’ is to offer financial payments like remittances, allowances through various electronic channels and to ensure access of rural people to internet and other electronic facilities like webcam and digital studio.

In connection with ‘Digital Bangladesh’, the district election commission has also completed its preparations for introducing electronic voting system through Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) in the upcoming Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) polls in Bangladesh. Though this initiative, first of its kind, Bangladesh enters into digital voting system on a limited scale, a steps forward to the modernization of the country’s election process after the preparation of voter list with photographs.

12 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 History & Culture

Baisabi is the main social festival of the indigenous people living in the hill districts of Rangamati, Bandarban and Khagrachhari. This festival is celebrated by the Chakma and Tanchyanga as “Biju”, by Marmas as “Shangrai” and by Tripuras as “Baisuk” or “Baisu”. , a joyful part of Baisabi Biju: Biju is a festival celebrated by the Chakmas and Tanchyangas for three consecutive days-the last two days Baisakh as part of the New Year festival. of Chaitra and the fist day of Baisakh. The first day is called full Biju, the second day Mul Biju and on the last Shangrai: The Marmas celebrate Shangrai for day they celebrate what is known as Gaijja-Paijja. They four days. Everybody carries the image of Lord do not kill any living creature during these three Buddha to the river front and sets down the days. They celebrate the last day of as the main image on a floating bed. Afterwards they complete festival day. On this special day they cook a mixed the bathing of the image in milk or sandalwood water curry with five types of vegetables, which they call and return with it to set it in the Temple or in their Pachan. In the afternoon, the teenagers play homes. In every locality, the water throwing festival traditional games like Ghila and Bou-chi. starts with people throwing water at each other in the belief that the previous year’s sorrows will be washed Gaijja-Paijja: Gaijja-Paijja means going for the away by the water. somersault on the ground and is practiced by the tribal boys and girls during the first day of Baisuk: The Baisuk festival of the tribe is celebrated by worshipping the god and asking for his blessings. They celebrate the festival in the following stages: a) Hari Baisuk: Hari Baisuk is celebrated a day before the last day of Chaitra. On that day in every Tripura family they arrange the bathing of their pet animals, which are then decked with different flowers. b) Bishuma: The Tripuras celebrate Bishuma. On this day newly married couples and teenagers bring pitchers bring pitchers full of water from rivers and seek blessings from their parents by bathing them Baisabi Festival of the tribal community with the river water.

KALEIDOSCOPE 13 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010 Embassy Activities

Celebration of birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation

On 17 March 2010, documentary on the life of Bangabandhu was Bangladesh Embassy shown. Some of the guests took part in the dis- in Stockholm observed cussion on Bangabandhu. the 90th birth anniver- sary of the Father of In his speech, His Excellency the Ambassador the Nation Ban- remarked that Bangabandhu was the gabandhu Sheikh Mu- greatest Bangalee of the history. Drawing jibur Rahman and Na- attention to the tional Children’s Day parents he re- 2010 in the Chancery quested them to premises in a befitting manner with due zeal and teach their enthusiasm. On this occasion, the Mission organ- children the true ized discussion meeting, documentary film show, history of Bang- and cultural function. ladesh and let them learn from the life of Bangabandhu. He The event was participated by asked everyone to be fully committed towards large number of guests with establishing the rights of children who would the presence and participation grow up to take over the responsibility of the of a good number of children. country and mentioned that this was essential for The programme began with realization of a prosperous Bangladesh dreamt of the recitation from the holy by the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu books of the followers of all Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. faiths present there. Chil- dren laid flowers at a por- The discussion meeting was followed by a cultural trait of Bangabandhu kept at the premises. After the function, participated mainly by children and local messages from Hon’ble President and Hon’ble artistes. Towards the end of the programme, buffet Prime Minister on the occasion being read out, a dinner was served. Celebration of the Independence and National Day 2010

The 39th Anniversary of the Inde- flag. This was followed by a special prayer of- pendence and National Day of fered for the salvation of the soul of the Martyrs Bangladesh was celebrated in the and for the continued peace and prosperity of Embassy on 26 March 2010 in a be- Bangladesh. The flag hoisting ceremony was fol- fitting manner. The programme lowed by a discussion meeting, chaired by H.E. started in the morning with hoisting of the national the Ambassador, at the Chancery.

14 KALEIDOSCOPE MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

Embassy Activities

In his speech, H.E. the Ambassador paid rich trib- SIDA, foreign diplomats, journalists, businessmen, utes to the martyrs of the Liberation War. He said and other dignitaries of the host country and their that Bangladesh got its political independence in spouses. A large number of Bangladeshis and Swed- 1971 and has been working under many adversities ish-Bangladeshis, along with their spouses, from dif- and challenges towards attaining economic free- ferent parts of Sweden also attended dom. He mentioned that the government has al- the programme enthusiastically. ready taken many bold and progressive steps which give nation glimpses of hope of a prosperous Bangladesh. “We all need true patriotism and unity”, he said, “for moving towards our cherished goal of attaining peace, progress and prosperity, for which the country was liberated in 1971”. Lauding the forming of Tribunal for Trial of War Criminals just before the 39th Anni- versary of Independ- ence of Bangladesh, he mentioned that no crime against humanity should go unpunished.

To know more about the Embassy’s activities, please contact :- The Embassy arranged a National Day reception in the evening. A large number of Bangladeshi paint- The Embassy of Bangladesh, Stockholm ings were displayed in the reception hall. The pro- Anderstorpsvägen 12, 1 tr., gramme was attended 171 54, Solna, Sweden by, among others, members of the Swed- Phone : +46-8-730 5850 ish parliament, officials Fax : +46-8-730 5870 of the host government, E-mail : [email protected] Website : www.bangladoot.se representatives from

Celebration of Pahela Boisakh’ 1417

Pohela Boishakh, 1417, the Bangla Nobo Borsho In the beginning H.E the Ambassador welcomed all was celebrated by this Mission on 14 April 2010 in to the celebration and gave a brief history of the the Chancery premises in a befitting manner with event. Right after the address of the Ambassador, the due colour and festivity. The programme included cultural programme began which was designed with a cultural events and traditional food festival. A large number of dances and songs. A good number of number of guests attended the program with en- local artists performed in the programme and their thusiastic participation of expatriate Bangladesh lively performance recreated a Bangladesh-like nationals and some foreign nationals as well. atmosphere.

KALEIDOSCOPE 15 MARCH–APRIL ISSUE 2010

IMPORTANT LINKS

Government Organizations Trade, Business & Investment

Bangladesh Government Website : Board of Investment : http://www.bangladesh.gov.bd/ http://www.boi.gov.bd/ Prime Minister’s office : Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority http://www.pmo.gov.bd/ (BEPZA) : Ministry of Foreign Affairs : http://www.epzbangladesh.org.bd/ http://www.mofa.gov.bd/ Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Asso- Ministry of Commerce : ciation (BGMEA) : http://www.mincom.gov.bd/ http://www.bgmea.com/ National Board of Revenue : Export Promotion Bureau : http://www.nbr-bd.org/ http://epb.gov.bd/ Bangladesh Tariff Commission : Registrar of the Joint Stock Companies & Firms : http://www.bdtariffcom.org/ http://www.roc.gov.bd/ Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics : Privatization Commission of Bangladesh : http://www.bbs.gov.bd/ http://www.pc.gov.bd/ : The Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce http://www.bangladesh-bank.org/ and Industry : Biman Bangladesh Airlines : http://www.fbcci-bd.org/ http://www.bimanair.com/ Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry : NGO Affairs Bureau : http://www.dhakachamber.com/ http://www.ngoab.gov.bd/ Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry: http://www.chittagongchamber.com/ Tourism & Media Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry : http://www.ficci.org.bd/ Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry : National Tourism Corporation: http://www.mccibd.org/ http://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/ Limited : Hotel and Travel Guide : http://www.dsebd.org/ http://www.bangladesh.com/ Chittagong Stock Exchange : The Daily Star (English) : http://csebd.com/cse/start.html http://www.thedailystar.net/ Business Information : The Financial Express : http://www.bizinfo-bangladesh.com/ http://www.financialexpress-bd.com/ Bangladesh Yellow Pages : The Daily Ittefaq (Bangla) : http://www.bgyellowpages.com/ http://www.ittefaq.com/

Chief Editor : His Excellency, For More Information on Bangladesh as well as Imtiaz Ahmed Ambassador consular, trade, business and tourist Edi tor : Khandker Masudul Alam, information, please visit Bangladesh Embassy First Secretary website at http://www.bangladoot.se Graphics & Design by : Tariq Ibne Abedin, Trade Attaché

Published by : The Embassy of Bangladesh, Anderstorpsvägen 12, 1 tr., 171 54, Solna, Sweden Telephone : + 46 8 730 5850, Fax : + 46 8 730 5870, Email : [email protected]

The sources of all the articles, news items and other information in this newsletter are basically the newspapers published in Bangladesh. The contents are, therefore, unofficial.