BRIEFING NOTES THE MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, , NOVEMBER 2019

I hope, this Dialogue would substantially “ contribute to the socio-economic development and in maintaining security of the countries in Asia and the Pacific region ”

NOVEMBER 2019 1 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

PRIME MINISTER INAUGURATES DHAKA GLOBAL DIALOGUE 2019

Prime Minister is delivering speech in the inaugural session of the Dhaka Global Dialogue 2019 at a local hotel in Dhaka on 11 November 2019

The first ever Dhaka Global 700 participants along with 150 as Bangladesh, responding to their Dialogue was held on 11-13 representatives from around 50 people’s aspirations in a manner that countries participated in that event. is sustainable, equitable and ‘leaving November 2019 in Dhaka, Foreign Minister, State Minister no one behind’. It was mentioned that organized by the Bangladesh for Foreign Affairs and the Foreign Bangladesh, through its magnificent Institute of International and Secretary participated in the Dialogue achievements in economic growth, as panelists in a number of sessions. social progress and women’s Strategic Studies (BIISS) empowerment, had already pinnacled The Dialogue emphasized on both of and the Observer Research as a ‘role model of development’ the evolving political order and the Foundation (ORF), . The for many countries in the region and associated institutional framework beyond notwithstanding manifold Foreign Service Academy acted demonstrating the full depth of human- restraints. Bangladesh will be one of as the focal point on behalf first growth and development policy the crucial actors of the Asian century of the Ministry of Foreign paradigm. It stressed the pivotal role and therefore creating an ‘ideas of Bangladesh as per its overarching Affairs. On 11 November 2019 arena’ to discuss key developments “Vision 2041”. If focused on attaining and challenges in Dhaka was an Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina the Sustainable Development acknowledgement of its role in this inaugurated the event. Goals (SDGs) of countries, such Dialogue.

2 NOVEMBER 2019 PRIME MINISTER SHEIKH HASINA VISITS INDIA

Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee calls on Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Kolkata on 22 November 2019

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visited for Cricket in India) Sourav Ganguly to West Bengal Mamata Banerjee called Kolkata, India on 22 November 2019 inaugurate the first ever day-night test on the Bangladesh Prime Minister at the invitation of the Indian Prime match with pink ball. Sheikh Hasina at her place of residence where both Minister Narendra Modi and the enjoyed the first innings of the match the leaders discussed many issues of President of BCCI (Board of Control from the gallery. Chief Minister of bilateral interests.

VIETNAM AND THAI AMBASSADORS CALL ON FOREIGN MINISTER

He urged upon Vietnam to invest in the economic zones and hi-tech parks of Bangladesh as Bangladesh offered the most attractive investment package among the competing regional countries.

The outgoing Ambassador of Vietnam to Bangladesh Tran Van Khoa called on Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, MP at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 4 November 2019

The outgoing Ambassador of Vietnam completion of his assignment in Dhaka. Rohingya issue within ASEAN framework to Bangladesh Tran Van Khoa called on He urged upon Vietnam to invest in of which Vietnam is likely to take over as Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, the economic zones and hi-tech parks the chair from January 2020. Ambassador MP at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on of Bangladesh as Bangladesh offered Khoa thanked the Foreign Minister for the 4 November 2019. the most attractive investment package support during his assignment in Dhaka. Foreign Minister congratulated the among the competing regional countries. He assured to convey to the Headquarters Vietnam Ambassador on the successful He sought Vietnam’s support on the Bangladesh’s concerns on the Rohingya

NOVEMBER 2019 3 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

issue and play a positive role as ASEAN of to Bangladesh Arunrung 2019. Foreign Minister congratulated the chair for a safe, secured and dignified Phothong Humphreys called on Foreign Ambassador on her appointment in Dhaka repatriation of the Rohingya. Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, MP at the and assured all out support in discharge of The newly appointed Ambassador Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 5 November her responsibilities.

The Ambassador informed that her mission had already sent a proposal to Bangkok to explore the possibility of investing in the healthcare sector of Bangladesh.

The newly appointed Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh Arunrung Phothong Humphreys called on Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, MP at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 5 November 2019

Dr. Momen suggested Thailand to invest He also sought a pro-active role from assured to provide Thailand’s technical in Bangladesh, particularly in constructing Thailand on the repatriation of the support in Bangladesh’s tourism sector. joint venture hospitals, so that the huge Rohingyas. She mentioned that the Thai Embassy in trade imbalance between the two counties Dhaka was planning to hold a Business could be minimized. He requested the The Ambassador informed that her mission Forum either in Dhaka or in Bangkok Thai Ambassador to organize training had already sent a proposal to Bangkok soon. She also assured to remain engaged sessions and technical capacity building to explore the possibility of investing in on the Rohingya issue and to convey programmes on tourism in Bangladesh. the healthcare sector of Bangladesh. She Dhaka’s concerns to her headquarters.

DR. BAN KI-MOON MEETS WITH FOREIGN MINISTER DR. A K ABDUL MOMEN, MP

Former Secretary General of the Ban Ki-moon met with Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, MP on a courtesy call at a local hotel in Dhaka on 23 November 2019

Former Secretary General of the 2019. They discussed various issues of a regional office of Global Centre United Nations Dr. Ban Ki-moon met including the grave danger of climate on Adaptation in Dhaka and possible with Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul change and the possible adaptation leadership role of Bangladesh at Momen, MP on a courtesy call at a measures to fight its adverse effects, Climate Vulnerable Forum. local hotel in Dhaka on 23 November Rohingya crisis, the establishment

4 NOVEMBER 2019 FOREIGN MINISTER INAUGURATES SMART NID CARD AND VOTER ENROLMENT SERVICES AT BANGLADESH EMBASSY IN ABU DHABI

Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul incentives to the remitters. He urged the cards were distributed among five Momen, MP inaugurated the Smart expatriate nationals to help in presenting Bangladeshi expatriates. It was the first NID card and voter enrolment services positive image about Bangladesh from ever such distribution of Smart NID at Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi abroad. cards to expatriates from any Mission on 17 November 2019. He commented Foreign Minister mentioned that the of Bangladesh abroad. that the facility, being provided at door- step of the expatriates, would reduce provision of Smart NID card service Director General (NID) of the National the hassles for them. He encouraged was a long felt expectation of the Election Commission, officials of the Bangladeshi expatriates to send Bangladeshi nationals living in the the Foreign Ministry and Bangladesh more remittance to Bangladesh as the UAE and it would ensure them access Embassy in Abu Dhabi were present in government was providing lucrative to various services. Five Smart NID the programme.

NEWLY JOINED AMBASSADOR OF JAPAN MEETS WITH THE STATE MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

He requested for the support of Japan on the early repatriation of the forcefully displaced nationals to Bangladesh.

The newly appointed Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Naoki Ito called on the State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam, MP at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 19 November 2019

The newly appointed Ambassador of Cooperation (MoC) on recruiting Both the State Minister and the Japan to Bangladesh Naoki Ito called ‘Specified Skilled Workers’ by Japan Ambassador expressed confidence that on the State Minister for Foreign Affairs from Bangladesh. He expressed the regular holding of the Public Private Md. Shahriar Alam, MP at the Ministry confidence that it would be beneficial for Economic Dialogue (PPED) between both the countries. He requested for the the two countries would deepen the of Foreign Affairs on 19 November 2019. support of Japan on the early repatriation economic cooperation and would attract State Minister thanked the Ambassador of the forcefully displaced Myanmar increased investment to Bangladesh from for concluding Memorandum of nationals to Bangladesh. Japan.

NOVEMBER 2019 5 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

FOREIGN MINISTRY JOINTLY ORGANIZES A SEMINAR ON THE PREVENTION OF MONEY LAUNDERING AND COMBATING FINANCING OF TERRORISM

Guests of a seminar on ‘National Strategy for Prevention of Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism 2019-2021’ held on 17 November 2019 at a hotel in Dhaka

Ministry of Foreign Affairs along with Board of Revenue (NBR), Chairman Financing of Terrorism. The aims of the Financial Institutions Division of the of the Anti-Corruption Commission, formulation of the national strategy are Ministry of Finance, Bangladesh Bank Additional Inspector General of Police to stem illicit flow of funds and trade- and Bangladesh Financial Intelligence (IGP), members of NCC and Working based money laundering, develop an Unit (BFIU) organized a seminar on Committee, ambassadors of different effective judicial system and maintain ‘National Strategy for Prevention of foreign Missions in Bangladesh were strict AML and CFT compliance by the Money Laundering and Combating present in the seminar. reporting organization. This national Financing of Terrorism 2019-2021’ The seminar was held in order to raise strategy paper has 11 strategies and on 17 November 2019 at a hotel in awareness among the stakeholders on 137 action items. Dhaka. Finance Minister was the Chief the National Strategy for Prevention The seminar focused on the effective Guest of the event while State Minister of Money Laundering and Combating implementation of all strategies for Foreign Affairs was present as Financing of Terrorism for the through proper coordination among the Special Guest. The Governor term 2019-2021. This Strategy is responsible agencies and collective of Bangladesh Bank moderated a well-articulated roadmap for efforts. Speakers of the seminar urged the seminar. Among others, Senior implementations of action plans in an the world community to work together Secretary of the Financial Institutions organized manner for Prevention of for preventing money laundering and Division, Chairman of National Money Laundering and Combating terrorist financing.

6 NOVEMBER 2019 THE FIRST FOREIGN OFFICE CONSULTATIONS BETWEEN BANGLADESH AND ETHIOPIA HELD IN DHAKA

The first-ever Foreign Office investment in Bangladesh. Both sides Consultations (FOC) between Bangladesh The meeting covered the stressed on the need for a framework and Ethiopia was held in Dhaka on 26 whole gamut of bilateral of co-operation and consultation. The November 2019. Foreign Secretary Md. issues including political Ethiopian Foreign Secretary applauded Shahidul Haque led the Bangladesh the remarkable socio-economic growth delegation while the Ethiopian delegation relations and enhanced of Bangladesh in the recent years. was led by Ambassador Mahlet Hailu cooperation especially Guadye, Permanent Secretary (Foreign in the fields of trade and Before the consultations, a Memorandum Secretary), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Understanding (MoU) on Bilateral investment, education, of Ethiopia. Consultations between the Foreign The meeting covered the whole gamut culture, agriculture, Ministries of the two countries was signed of bilateral issues including political textiles, pharmaceuticals by the respective Foreign Secretaries. relations and enhanced cooperation and peace-keeping under Ambassador of Bangladesh to Ethiopia, especially in the fields of trade and Director General (Africa) of the Ministry investment, education, culture, the UN. agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals of Foreign Affairs and a number of senior and peace-keeping under the UN. in the economic and social sectors and officials from different government Bangladesh Foreign Secretary shared informed the Ethiopian delegation about ministries and organizations were present some of the success stories of the country the provisions and privileges of foreign at the FOC.

SAIDA MUNA TASNEEM PRESENTS CREDENTIALS TO IRISH PRESIDENT MICHAEL DANIEL HIGGINS

High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the Saida Muna Tasneem presented her letter of credence to Irish President Michael Daniel Higgins as a non-resident Ambassador of Bangladesh to Ireland on 20 November 2019

Bangladesh High Commissioner to the November 2019 as a non-resident Sheikh Hasina to the Irish President and UK Saida Muna Tasneem presented ambassador of Bangladesh to Ireland. reaffirmed her commitment to further her letter of credence to Irish President Bangladesh Ambassador conveyed developing the excellent bilateral Michael Daniel Higgins at his residence the warm greetings of President Md. relations existing since Bangladesh’s Áras an Uachtaráin in Dublin on 20 and Prime Minister recognition by Ireland in early 1972.

NOVEMBER 2019 7 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

“BANGLA BOND” IS LISTED IN LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE

Bangladesh High Commission in London also organized a “Bangladesh Investment Dialogue” on the same day to celebrate the “To Ring The Bell” ceremony of the listing of the “Bangla Bond”.

‘To Ring The Bell’ ceremony of listing of ‘Bangla Bond’ in the London Stock Exchange on 11 November 2019

The International Finance Corporation to showcase Bangladesh’s growth Kamal, Prime Minister’s Adviser on (IFC), a sister concern of the World story and investment opportunities. Private Industry and Investment Salman Bank, floated the first-ever Bangladeshi Bangladesh High Commission in F Rahman and High Commissioner of Taka - “Bangla Bond” in the London London also organized a “Bangladesh Bangladesh to the United Kingdom Stock Exchange (LSE). ‘To Ring Investment Dialogue” on the same day The Bell’ ceremony of listing of the to celebrate the “To Ring The Bell” Saida Muna Tasneem attended the bond was held on 11 November 2019 ceremony of the listing of the “Bangla enlistment ceremony and the investment followed by an ‘Investor’s Roundtable’ Bond”. Finance Minister AHM Mustafa dialogue.

BANGLADESH HIGH COMMISSION, LONDON ORGANIZED A SEMINAR ON ‘SHIP RECYCLING’

the environmental and occupational hazards were merely the aspect on the surface, whereas, from deep inside, the ship recycling industry was inherently a green industry”. Bangladesh High Commission organized a seminar titled “Ship Recycling for Sustainable Development: Perspective from Bangladesh and the Region” in London on 21 November 2019

Bangladesh High Commission, London 2019. Bangladesh High Commissioner Syed Ariful Islam presented the key-note organized a seminar titled “Ship Recycling to the United Kingdom and Permanent paper on Bangladesh’s ship recycling and for Sustainable Development: Perspective Representative of Bangladesh to the IMO shipbuilding industries. Md. Abdus Samad, from Bangladesh and the Region” at the Saida Muna Tasneem moderated the Secretary, Ministry of Shipping and the sidelines of the International Maritime seminar. Kitack Lim, Secretary-General Head of Bangladesh delegation to the IMO Organization’s (IMO) 30th extraordinary of IMO graced the event as the Guest of Extraordinary Session, chaired the seminar. council session held at the IMO Honour. Director-General of Department In her opening remark, Bangladesh High Headquarters in London on 21 November of Shipping, Bangladesh Commodore Commissioner said that the world should

8 NOVEMBER 2019 have a fresh look at the ship recycling, aspect on the surface, whereas, from deep reducing the local environmental and instead of projecting it as dirty industry. inside, the ship recycling industry was occupational hazards associated with ship She mentioned that the environmental inherently a green industry”. She assured breaking. and occupational hazards were merely the of Bangladesh’s strong commitment to

UNESCO WILL CELEBRATE THE BIRTH CENTENARY OF BANGABANDHU

Bangladesh delegation after the declaration of UNESCO’s association with the Birth Centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on 25 November 2019

UNESCO formally adopted Delegation of Bangladesh to UNESCO Board (3-17 April, 2019), approval Bangladesh’s proposal on 25 November had closely coordinated and negotiated of the Administrative, Program and 2019 to celebrate the Birth Centenary of the issue with UNESCO Secretariat External Relations (APX) Commission the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu and its Member States to secure their under the 40th General Conference Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2020. In supports for the final adoption of the (13 November 2019) and adoption February 2019, Bangladesh submitted proposal. Bangladesh Delegation was of the proposal of Bangladesh by the the proposal to UNESCO which was deeply engaged at different stages General Conference of UNESCO on 25 co-sponsored by Cuba, India, Japan, of the approval process including November 2019 as a formal and final Nepal and Poland. The Permanent recommendation of the 206th Executive decision.

SECRET DOCUMENTS OF THE INTELLIGENCE BRANCH ON BANGABANDHU GIVEN TO QUEENS LIBRARY

Bangladesh Consul General in New York Sadia Faizunnesa hands over the first 3 volumes of the ‘Secret Documents of Intelligence Branch on Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’ to the Queens Library’s Chief Librarian Nick Buron in New York on 15 November 2019 Bangladesh Consul General in New York Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’ to book written on Bangabandhu on the basis Sadia Faizunnesa formally handed over the the Queens Library’s Chief Librarian Nick of intelligence report from 1948 to 1971. first 3 volumes of the ‘Secret Documents of Buron in New York on 15 November 2019. From now on these books will be displayed Intelligence Branch on Father of the Nation Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina edited the in the library.

NOVEMBER 2019 9 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

NATIONAL ACTION PLAN ON WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY (2019-2022) LAUNCHED

National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (2019-2022) was launched on 24 November 2019 at a hotel in Dhaka

The first National Action Plan on Women, of the Ministry of Women and Children Executive Director of Bangladesh Nari Peace and Security (2019-2022) was Affairs, Principal Staff Officer of Armed Progati Sangha (BNPS) attended the event. launched on 24 November 2019 at a hotel Forces Division, Country Representative Director General (UN) of Foreign Ministry in Dhaka. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and of UN Women Bangladesh, Special moderated the event. She also made a brief UN Women jointly organized the launching Envoy for Women, Peace and Security of presentation on the National Action Plan ceremony. Foreign Secretary, Secretary Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Women, Peace and Security.

NIGERIA-BANGLADESH FRIENDSHIP CLUB LAUNCHED DURING THE FIRST EVER JOINT CULTURAL NIGHT

Former Nigerian Foreign Minister Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, Bangladesh High Commissioner Md. Shameem Ahsan and the Director General of National Council of Arts and Culture, Nigeria Otunba Runsewe cut a cake to mark the launching of the Nigeria-Bangladesh Friendship Club on 26 November 2019 in Abuja

Bangladesh and Nigeria jointly held cultural organizations and members of the midst of the programme, Prof. Ibrahim a cultural night at the FCT Exhibition Bangladesh diaspora attended the event. Agboola Gambari, former Nigerian Auditorium, Abuja on 26 November Md. Shameem Ahsan, Bangladesh High Foreign Minister cut a cake together with 2019 which marked the first ever joint Commissioner to Nigeria remarked that the High Commissioner of Bangladesh performance by the artistes of the two the day would be considered as one of and the Director General, NCAC to mark friendly countries. Around 300 guests the most memorable days in the history the launching of the Nigeria-Bangladesh including dignitaries, elected officials, of bilateral relations between Bangladesh Friendship Club. Stellar performances Ambassadors/High Commissioners, and Nigeria. He thanked Otunba Runsewe, by the artists of the cultural troupes from journalists, members of the civil society, Director General of National Council of Bangladesh and Nigeria enthralled the leaders of the business community, Arts and Culture (NCAC), Nigeria for his audience. The guests were served with representatives of various social and generous support to make it happen. In the traditional cuisine of the two countries.

10 NOVEMBER 2019 BANGLADESH EMBASSY PARTICIPATES AT THE ‘CHRISTMAS BAZAR’ IN ATHENS

Bangladesh Embassy in Athens put up a stall at the ‘Christmas Bazar’ on 23-24 November 2019 in Athens to showcase the rich culture, tradition and development activities of Bangladesh stall at the ‘Christmas Bazar’ in Athens displays posters, traditional handicraft items Bangladesh. and Bangladeshi cuisines

Bangladesh Embassy in Athens put up in this festival. development, tourism, trade and investment, a stall at the 'Christmas Bazar' on 23-24 Posters on the celebration of the Birth special T-shirts, pens, key-rings with the logo November 2019 in Athens to showcase Centenary of the Father of the Nation of ‘Beautiful Bangladesh’ and lapel pins the rich culture, tradition and development Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, with the flag of Bangladesh were distributed activities of Bangladesh. An organization Bangladeshi sharees, Panjabis, traditional among the visitors who came to Bangladesh named 'Friends of Children' organized the handicraft items and Bangladeshi cuisines stall. A special ‘photo booth’ decorated 'Christmas Bazar' to support the Children were exhibited in the Bangladesh stall. with Bangladeshi traditional costumes were of Athens. 37 countries along with a large Brochures and leaflets on Bangladesh’s placed beside the Bangladesh stall for the number of local organizations participated visitors.

BANGLADESH DELEGATION VISITS BRAZIL TO EXPLORE THEIR PHARMACEUTICAL MARKET

ranking pharmaceutical companies, the Secretary-General of the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries, officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The delegation had extensive meetings with the Brazilian Ministry of Health and ANVISA—the pharmaceutical regulatory agency of Brazil in Brasilia and with three relevant organizations - SINDUSFARMA, ABIQUIFI and ABIMO in São Paulo. The Brazilian Ministry of Health, the biggest buyer of pharmaceutical products in Brazil, was extremely forthcoming and promised A Bangladesh delegation from the pharmaceutical sector met with the officials of the Brazilian all support to facilitate Bangladesh’s entry Ministry of Health in Brasilia into the Brazilian pharmaceutical market. The first-ever Bangladesh delegation from Brazilian pharmaceutical market worth of ANVISA officials thoroughly explained the pharmaceutical sector visited Brazil US$ 7 billion. DG (Drug Administration) the registration procedure, which the during 16-22 November 2019 to explore led the 21-member Bangladesh delegation Bangladeshi pharmaceutical companies the possibilities of entering into the which included MDs/CEOs of 11 top- found to be simple and doable.

NOVEMBER 2019 11 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

BANGLADESH HIGH COMMISSION IN ISLAMABAD PROMOTES BANGLADESH AS AN EXPORTING NATION

The idea of the event was to celebrate jute, the golden fibre of Bangladesh, which had come back into spotlight in recent years for being a natural substance, due to environmental concerns over artificial products like synthetic fibres and plastics.

A wide array of finished jute items are put on the display at a local hotel in Islamabad on 30 November 2019

Bangladesh High Commission in and diversification of jute products of basket, with addition of many non- Islamabad organized an event titled Bangladesh, a wide array of finished traditional high-end export items such ‘From Jute to Shipbuilding: Emergence jute items, including the biodegradable as RMG, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, of Bangladesh as an Exporting Nation’, ‘Sonali Bag’ made from jute extracts, ICT and shipbuilding. A video at a local hotel on 30 November 2019. were put on display on the occasion. presenting a brief genesis of jute A large number of guests including High Commissioner Tarik Ahsan industry and its gradual modernization the heads of diplomatic missions and mentioned that the idea of the event was also screened. local dignitaries including Mayor of was to celebrate jute, the golden fibre Earlier in the week, on 24 November, the Islamabad, Federal Parliamentary of Bangladesh, which had come back High Commission took part in the annual Secretary for Commerce and into spotlight in recent years for being a ‘Charity Bazar’ of the Pakistan Foreign Chairperson of the Commonwealth natural substance, due to environmental Office Women Association. Almost Women Parliamentarians, former State concerns over artificial products all foreign missions in Islamabad took Minister for Foreign Affairs, Central like synthetic fibres and plastics. part in the annual festival. Traditional Senior Vice President of PML-Q and a He informed the visitors that, like Bangladeshi cuisine and sweets were former MNA attended the event. diversifying jute products, Bangladesh the main attraction for the local and In order to highlight the advancement was also diversifying its main export foreign guests during the fair.

BANGLADESH MISSION IN ISTANBUL ORGANIZES ROUND-TABLE DISCUSSIONS AND EXCHANGE OF VIEWS

Bangladesh Mission in Istanbul good number of Turkish businessmen, provided by the government. The Mission organized a round-table discussion titled investors and representatives of the organized another round-table discussion ‘Bangladesh-Turkey Business Relations’ civil society were present. Turkish titled ‘Bangladesh and Neighbourhood’ in Istanbul on 29 November 2019. businessmen and investors were called earlier on 01 November with former Economic Adviser to Prime Minister upon to explore Bangladesh with its High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Dr. Moshiur Rahman was present as investment friendly climate and a India, Tariq Ahmed Karim as the guest of the guest of honour. Among others, a range of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives honour.

12 NOVEMBER 2019 The Mission organized an exchange of as chief guest. Among others, a good contribute to the development process views on ‘Role of Bangladesh expatriates number of Bangladeshi expatriates of Bangladesh from their respective in development of Bangladesh’ in and students studying in Istanbul fields and play pro-active role in further collaboration with ‘Centre for Non- were present at the discussion. Consul brightening Bangladesh’s image in Resident Bangladeshi’ on 30 November General Mohammad Monirul Islam Turkey. 2019. Dr. Moshiur Rahman was present welcomed the guests and urged them to

EXPATRIATES’ WELFARE AND OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT MINISTER VISITS MALAYSIA

Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas of Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia. to ensure transparency, efficiency and Employment Minister Imran Ahmad, Both of the Ministers agreed on the effectiveness for the benefit of both the MP paid a visit to Malaysia on 05-07 collaboration between Bangladesh and countries. Bangladesh Minister attended November 2019. During the visit, he Malaysia through joint and coordinated the inauguration ceremony of NID met with Malaysian Minister of Human efforts to reduce the cost of migration programme for expatriate Bangladeshis Resources M. Kula Segaran on 06 on both sides to a reasonable limit. They living in Malaysia. Bangladesh High November to discuss and sort out the also agreed upon to implement a secured, Commission is the first Bangladesh outstanding issues for the resumption holistic and integrated online system Mission abroad to do so.

BANGLADESH EMBASSY PARTICIPATES IN THE ASIAN FOOD FESTIVAL AND INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMATIC BAZAR-2019 IN LISBON

Bangladesh pavilion in the ‘International Diplomatic Bazar-2019’ in Lisbon displays traditional clothing, pearls and other jewelry, ladies’ bags, muslin table-cloths and tapestry and other handicrafts

Bangladesh Embassy participated in Bangladesh stall drew great attention of ‘International Diplomatic Bazar-2019’. the first ever Asian Food Festival in the visitors who appreciated Bangladeshi A pavilion was set up in a traditional Lisbon showcasing the rich culinary food and speak highly of the rich culinary Bengali way for displaying traditional tradition of Bangladesh. More than clothing, pearls and other jewelry, ladies’ traditions of the Bengalis. six hundred people of Portuguese and bags, muslin table-cloths and tapestry other nationality attended the Festival. The Embassy also participated in the and other handicrafts.

NOVEMBER 2019 13 FOREIGN OFFICE BRIEFING NOTES

HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE MINISTER VISITS DELHI Zahid Maleque, MP, Minister of Health Achieving the SDGs 2030”, held during environment for public health which and Family Welfare of Bangladesh 19-21 November 2019 in New Delhi, are critical to achieving the Sustainable attended the “2019 World Conference India. The meeting particularly focused Development Goals 2030 Agenda. on Access to Medical Products - on creating an enabling legal and trade

BANGLADESH PARTICIPATES IN THE 40TH GENERAL CONFERECE OF UNESCO

Education Minister Dr. Dipu Moni, MP delivering the National Statement at the Plenary of the 40th UNESCO General Conference on 13 November 2019

Bangladesh participated in the 40th the National Statement at the Plenary with Audrey Azoulay, Director General General Conference of UNESCO of the Conference. She attended few of UNESCO. Following the General held in Paris during 12-27 November Ministerial Panel discussions and Conference, at the 208th Session of 2019 and was elected as a Vice- meetings on different issues. She the Executive Board, Bangladesh was President. Education Minister Dr. had bilateral meetings with Ramesh elected as one of the Vice-Chairs of the Dipu Moni, MP led the 13-member Pokhriyal, Union Human Resource Executive Board of the UNESCO for Bangladesh delegation and delivered Development Minister of India and the period 2019-2021.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs K M Khalid, MP participated in the ‘Forum of Ministers of Culture’ at the sideline of the 40th General Conference of UNESCO on 19 November 2019

State Minister for Cultural Affairs K a fundamental dimension for human 2019. He also had bilateral meetings M Khalid, MP attended the Forum development and innovation”. Cultural with Hilmar Farid, Deputy Minister of Ministers of Culture held on 19 Ministers from 122 member countries for Culture of Indonesia and with Dr. November 2019 at the sideline of attended the Forum. Earlier the State Salim M. Al Malik, Director General of UNESCO General Conference. He Minister attended the Grand Opening participated in the Panel discussion of a Joint Exhibition titled “Walking the Islamic Educational, Scientific and titled “Culture at the heart of education, the Indigo Walk” on 18 November Cultural Organization (ISESCO).

14 NOVEMBER 2019 BANGLADESH EMBASSY PARTICIPATES IN THE 17TH BUSAN INTERNATIONAL SEAFOOD AND FISHERIES EXPO 2019 AND THE SIWA BAZAAR 2019

Nationals have visited the Bangladesh pavilion during the EXPO and showed keen interest on our Crabs, Eel and Shrimp products. They were also eager to learn about the marketing formalities of fish products in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh pavilion in the 17th Busan International Seafood and Fisheries EXPO 2019 in Busan, South Korea

Bangladesh Embassy in Seoul participated their Seafood items. Mayor of Busan City like the Hilsa, Shrimp, Cat Fish, Ruhi, in the 17th Busan International Seafood Oh Keo-don inaugurated the event in the Katla, Eel and Crabs were distributed and Fisheries EXPO 2019 from 06-08 presence of Ambassadors of participating among the visitors. Nearly 250 Korean November 2019 in Busan, the commercial countries. and other foreign nationals have visited city of South Korea, jointly organized by The attractive decoration of the the Bangladesh pavilion during the EXPO Busan Metropolitan City/BEXCO and Bangladesh pavilion was appreciated and showed keen interest on our Crabs, Korea Fishery Trade Association. Around by the visitors. Brochures, leaflets and Eel and Shrimp products. They were 420 companies from 30 countries have related information on Bangladeshi fishes also eager to learn about the marketing participated in this eventand displayed formalities of fish products in Bangladesh.

Visitors are served with Bangladeshi potato patty, fish kebab, chicken biriyani and milk-tea at the Bangladesh stall

Ambassador Abida Islam welcomed Kang products, nakshi Kantha, wooden dolls, attracted the attention of the visitors who Nan Hee to Bangladesh stall and presented hand fans, and other handicraft items were also enjoyed Bangladeshi potato patty, her with a traditional handicraft item. Jute displayed in the Bangladesh stall which fish kebab, chicken biriyani and milk-tea.

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BANGLADESH PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE TO THE OPCW SHEIKH MOHAMMED BELAL ELECTED CHAIRPERSON OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE STATES PARTIES

Permanent Representative of of the Conference of the States Parties Bangladesh’s contribution to the Bangladesh to the Organization for to the Chemical Weapons Convention world peace and signifies international the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons during the 24th Conference of the States recognition of the country’s efforts to (OPCW), Sheikh Mohammed Belal has Parties held on 25-29 November 2019. attain global disarmament and stem been elected as the Chairperson of the The election manifests appreciation proliferation of weapons of mass prestigious Committee of the Whole by the international community of destruction.

BANGLADESH MISSIONS IN LONDON, SEOUL AND ISLAMABAD CELEBRATE ARMED FORCES DAY

The 48th Bangladesh Armed Forces Deputy Minister of Wales July Morgan, event was attended by Ambassadors, Day celebrated in London, marking the Members of House of Lords, Dean Defense Attaches and local dignitaries. founding of army, navy and air force of Diplomatic Forum, Ambassadors, Rear Admiral Lee Sanghun, Director of during the War of Liberation in 1971. Defence Advisors and diplomats of Foreign Intelligence, Korean Defense Defence Wing of Bangladesh High different countries, senior military Intelligence Agency also attended the Commission in the UK organized a and civil officers of UK Ministry of event as a representative from the Korean reception at the British National Army Defence, Foreign and Home Ministries, Defense Ministry. Museum in London on 25 November professors from different UK universities The 48th Anniversary of the Armed 2019. A digital photographic exhibition including Cambridge, Sheffield, Oxford, Forces Day of Bangladesh was on valiant freedom fighters of 1971 Portsmouth, different media personnel celebrated in Islamabad, Pakistan on 21 gave the celebration a special grace. and elite members of both UK and November 2019 with festivity and due A documentary on the Armed Forces Bangladesh-British Community enjoyed solemnity. Defence Wing of Bangladesh role and the recent development of the programme. High Commission organized a reception Bangladesh in different sectors was also Bangladesh Embassy in Seoul celebrated at a hotel in Islamabad to mark the day. screened. Bangladesh Armed Forces Day on 21 Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, High Around 400 guests including veteran November 2019 for the first time ever Commissioners and Ambassadors of freedom fighters and organizers of 1971 after the opening of the Defence Wing SAARC countries and Dean of Defence War of Liberation living in the UK, at the Embassy in June 2019. The Advisors attended the event.

Chief Patron : Dr. A. K. Abdul Momen, MP, Foreign Minister Patron : Md. Shahriar Alam, MP, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Editorial Adviser : Masud Bin Momen, Foreign Secretary Editor : Samia Halim, Director General, External Publicity Wing Published by : External Publicity Wing, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka, Bangladesh Contact : Phone:+880-2-9562952, Fax: +880-2-9562163; E-mail: [email protected]

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