The World Trade Organization (WTO) has described recent discussions on trade tensions as “constructive” following China’s strong condemnation of U.S. tariffs. Beijing accused Washington of imposing a blanket 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, warning that such actions could destabilize global trade. In retaliation, China imposed its own tariffs and lodged a formal complaint with the WTO. Representatives from six nations expressed concern over the escalating trade dispute, urging both sides to exercise restraint. The Chinese ambassador to the WTO warned that U.S. policies could lead to economic instability and recession, while the U.S. countered with accusations against China. Despite Trump’s history of withdrawing from international organizations, the U.S. has yet to decide on its stance regarding the WTO.

Farmers in Brahmanbaria’s Akhaura border region have accused India’s Border Security Force (BSF) of destroying vegetable crops and uprooting Boro rice seedlings. Locals claim that BSF personnel, accompanied by Indian civilians, crossed into Bangladeshi territory and cut down crops including bottle gourd, beans, cabbage, and tomatoes. They also allegedly removed rice seedlings while claiming the land belonged to India. Upon receiving reports, members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) intervened, forcing the BSF to retreat. The BGB later proposed a flag meeting, where it was agreed that farming activities would not take place in disputed areas without proper land surveys.

During the recent border conference between the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), the Bangladeshi delegation strongly demanded a complete end to border killings. Led by BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, the Bangladeshi representatives emphasized that criminals should be prosecuted under standard legal frameworks rather than being shot on sight, as such actions violate human rights. In response, the BSF claimed that they resort to gunfire only when under attack by organized criminal groups and expressed willingness to cooperate in preventing such incidents. The BGB also protested against India’s unilateral construction of barbed-wire fences without a joint survey. Unlike previous years, the BSF did not arrange a sightseeing tour of Indian attractions for the BGB delegation, and the conference duration was reduced from the usual five to six days to just four.

In a recent interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that India would not be exempt from Washington’s reciprocal tariff policies.

Trump revealed that he had told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, “We are going to implement reciprocal tariffs. Whatever you impose on us, we will impose the same on you.” When Modi expressed his disapproval, Trump reaffirmed his stance.

India has historically imposed high tariffs on imported American goods, particularly in the automobile sector, where duties can reach up to 100%. During the interview, Trump boldly asserted, “No one can argue with me. If they impose tariffs, I will impose the same amount!”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has praised Sudan for its strong support for Palestine and its stance against Israeli attacks on Gaza. He called for Sudan’s participation in an emergency meeting of Islamic countries regarding the brutal plan to forcibly relocate Gaza’s population. Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ali Yusuf Ahmed Al-Sharif met with Iran’s Foreign Minister in Tehran on Monday. Araghchi expressed regret over Sudan’s internal conflicts and stressed the importance of national unity among Sudanese people to safeguard their country from foreign intervention.

In a courtesy meeting with Foreign Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain on Wednesday, Italy’s Deputy Foreign Minister Maria Tripodi assured swift action on the long-pending visa applications of Bangladeshi workers. Deputy Minister Tripodi also reiterated Italy’s strong support for the interim government and praised Bangladesh’s reform efforts towards building a peaceful nation. She expressed satisfaction with the growing trade relations between the two countries, particularly in the textile and defense sectors, and emphasized her interest in further expanding collaboration. The Foreign Adviser welcomed and encouraged investment opportunities.

Analysts believe that India is shifting its approach to improve relations with Bangladesh. Tensions escalated following the fall of the League government on August 5 and India’s decision to provide shelter to Sheikh Hasina. When Bangladesh formally requested her extradition, India’s firm stance further strained relations. Experts now suggest that both nations are working toward mending ties by sidelining this issue. Recent diplomatic engagements, including high-level meetings between foreign ministers and discussions on an economic corridor connecting India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, indicate a positive trend. However, concerns remain, such as visa restrictions and diplomatic summons. Notably, upcoming BIMSTEC meetings will see interactions between Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Additionally, border security chiefs from both nations—BGB and BSF—are currently holding discussions, raising hopes for further diplomatic progress.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, expressed China’s interest in competing in the arms market in Bangladesh during a press conference on Tuesday. He also reiterated China’s readiness to assist in the Teesta project and is awaiting a response from Bangladesh. Additionally, the ambassador raised concerns over how China’s regional position is depicted in Bangladeshi textbooks and websites, urging the country to revise its maps. China has also invited the Bangladesh Air Force to participate in an auction for decommissioned military aircraft and announced plans to streamline medical visa processing.

During a briefing on the visit of Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor to China on Tuesday, China’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, announced that arrangements are being made to ensure that Bangladeshis requiring urgent medical treatment in China can receive a visa within a day. He also mentioned that three hospitals in Kunming have been reserved for Bangladeshis. Those needing urgent medical care can directly approach the embassy, where arrangements will be made for issuing visas on the same day. During the briefing, Ambassador Yao emphasized that China respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty and does not interfere in its internal matters.

After seizing power in 2021, the Taliban has maintained diplomatic communication with neighboring and regional powers. A delegation from the Taliban government has now visited Japan, as reported by Al Jazeera. The discussions will focus on humanitarian aid and potential diplomatic relations with Japanese officials. On Sunday, a delegation comprising officials from the ministries of foreign affairs, education, economy, and health arrived in Japan. They will stay for a week. Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Latif Nazari, referred to this as part of their efforts to improve international relations.

Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, arrived in India for a two-day visit, receiving an exceptional welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Delhi Airport on Monday. Breaking usual protocol, Modi personally greeted the Emir, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. Sheikh Tamim is set to meet President Droupadi Murmu and Modi on Tuesday. India’s Foreign Ministry stated that this visit will further enhance diplomatic and economic cooperation. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met the Emir on Monday night.

In an interview with The Hindu on Monday, Foreign Affairs Adviser Tauhid Hossain stated that Bangladesh-India relations should not be limited to specific governments. Earlier, he met Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar in Oman. When asked about the meeting, he mentioned that after 15 years of a stable relationship, tensions have arisen due to recent changes. However, he believes such tensions should subside within six months.

Hossain also emphasized that minorities in Bangladesh are not facing persecution and that everyone enjoys equal rights. He confirmed that Bangladesh has sent a letter regarding Sheikh Hasina’s return and recommended maintaining restrictions until a response is received. Additionally, he stressed the need to take a strict stance against border killings and called for a review of the Adani agreement.

With no resolution in sight regarding water-sharing with India, Bangladesh has initiated the Teesta Mega Project, aiming to improve the livelihoods of over 20 million people across five districts. While the project is essential for Bangladesh’s water security, it has triggered geopolitical tensions between China and India. Initially, China expressed keen interest in funding and executing the project. However, the Hasina administration later shifted the project toward India, straining relations with China. Recently, China has renewed its interest in the initiative. If implemented, the project will deepen the Teesta River by 10 meters, ensuring year-round navigation, land reclamation, flood protection, agricultural restoration, and the establishment of river ports. The transformation is expected to significantly uplift the socio-economic conditions of the region.

The 55th Border Conference between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India's Border Security Force (BSF) is set to commence on Monday in New Delhi. During this four-day summit, Bangladesh will take a strong stance on unauthorized border crossings and illegal activities. This marks the first high-level border meeting since Sheikh Hasina's departure from power. Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General Jahangir Alam has stated that the tone of this discussion will be different, emphasizing that India must put an end to border killings. The meeting will also address issues such as border fencing and attacks on civilians.

On Sunday, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference. Their discussions focused on mutual interests and concerns. Jaishankar expressed hope that the upcoming border security director general-level meeting on February 20 in Delhi would resolve key border-related issues. Meanwhile, Hossain emphasized the renewal of the water-sharing treaty and pushed for a meeting of the SAARC Standing Committee. In an X post, Jaishankar mentioned that they also discussed bilateral relations and BIMSTEC cooperation.