Switzerland has assured Bangladesh of cooperation in recovering money laundered abroad and in implementing police reforms. The commitment came during a meeting between Swiss Ambassador Reto Renggli and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed at the ministry office in Dhaka on Wednesday. The discussion covered law and order, counterterrorism, parliamentary democracy, financial reforms, anti-money laundering efforts, digital fraud prevention, and mutual legal assistance.

The ambassador expressed Switzerland’s readiness to provide technical and strategic support for enhancing police capacity and reform initiatives. He emphasized the importance of effective parliamentary functioning and peaceful political dialogue. The minister highlighted the government’s priority on improving law and order and criticized past misuse of police power. He also shared insights from the Global Fraud Summit 2026 in Vienna, noting that digital scams account for about 40 percent of global fraud.

Both sides agreed on the need for stronger international cooperation to combat digital crimes and ensure financial stability. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Home Ministry and the Swiss Embassy, followed by a separate meeting between the minister and a UNODC regional director.

Senior officials from the Trump administration are preparing for a meeting in Pakistan later this week to discuss ways to end the ongoing war with Iran, according to two senior officials who spoke to CNN. The current plan includes Vice President JD Vance and possibly other top administration figures traveling to Pakistan, though the timing, location, and participants may still change due to security concerns.

Sources indicated that Turkey is also being considered as an alternative venue for the talks. Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator in the current U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts and has already conveyed Washington’s 15-point proposal to Tehran, which covers issues such as Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Turkey is also playing a role in the process.

Discussions about the trip are continuing at the White House, and President Donald Trump confirmed that Vice President Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and special envoy Steve Witkoff are leading the negotiations with Iran, though it remains uncertain who among them will travel abroad for the talks.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told the Supreme People’s Assembly on Tuesday that the ongoing war between Iran and the United States proves his country was right to retain its nuclear weapons. He said the current situation shows that rejecting US pressure and promises to abandon nuclear arms was the correct decision. Kim accused Washington of state-sponsored terrorism and aggression, declaring North Korea’s status as a nuclear power to be irreversible.

The remarks came after former US President Donald Trump described Iran as an imminent threat, despite earlier claiming to have destroyed its nuclear capability. For North Korea’s leadership, the Iran conflict reinforces the belief that nations without nuclear weapons are more vulnerable to US military power, while those possessing them can deter attacks.

Kim’s comments coincide with renewed diplomatic signals from Trump, who has hinted at restarting talks with Pyongyang. However, Kim indicated that any future meeting would differ from past summits, insisting that the US must first recognize North Korea as a nuclear state and abandon its hostile policies.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei has described U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim about possible diplomatic talks with Iran as ‘unreliable’. In an interview with India Today published on March 25, 2026, Baghaei stated that several countries have approached Iran with mediation proposals, but Tehran remains firm on defending itself.

Baghaei questioned Washington’s sincerity in seeking a peaceful resolution, pointing to what he described as continuous bombings and missile strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran. He argued that such actions undermine any credibility in U.S. claims of diplomacy or mediation.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions and uncertainty surrounding potential ceasefire efforts between Iran and the United States, with reports of mediation attempts involving Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt.

National Citizen Party (NCP) convener and opposition chief whip Nahid Islam has called for building an accountable, just, and inclusive state system to repay the debt owed to the martyrs of the Liberation War. In a message issued on Wednesday marking the 55th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence, he extended greetings to all Bangladeshis at home and abroad and reaffirmed his party’s commitment to fight corruption, injustice, and inequality while ensuring equal rights, dignity, and security for all citizens.

Nahid Islam described Independence and National Day as a moment of pride and self-respect, paying tribute to the martyrs and the persecuted women whose sacrifices shaped the nation’s history. He said the 1971 independence struggle was not only for territory but also for justice, equality, democracy, and human dignity—principles that remain unfulfilled. He criticized repeated impositions of autocratic rule that weakened democracy and national sovereignty.

Referring to the July mass uprising that ended autocratic rule, he said the nation regained its democratic rights and dignity. He urged the new generation to uphold truth, justice, courage, and patriotism to build the Bangladesh envisioned by the Liberation War.

President Md. Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar on Thursday, March 26, 2026, marking the Great Independence and National Day. The two leaders placed floral wreaths at dawn to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

After laying the wreaths, the President and Prime Minister stood in solemn silence for a while, paying deep respect to the heroic martyrs of the Liberation War. The tribute ceremony was part of the national observance of Independence Day, which commemorates Bangladesh’s struggle and victory in 1971.

The event at the National Memorial symbolizes the country’s collective remembrance of its freedom fighters and the enduring significance of Independence Day in national life.

Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) has issued new directives requiring motorcyclists to meet three conditions before obtaining fuel in Sylhet city. The announcement, signed by SMP Commissioner Abdul Kudduch Chowdhury and released on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, instructs all filling station authorities to comply with the order.

According to the public notice, motorcyclists must possess a valid driving license, ensure the motorcycle is properly registered, and both the rider and passenger must wear helmets with clear visors. Filling stations have been asked not to supply fuel to any motorcycle failing to meet these criteria.

The SMP stated that the directive was issued in the public interest and warned that legal action would be taken against those who violate the rules or create disorder.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called on all citizens to work together to move Bangladesh forward. In a message posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday marking the Great Independence Day, he said the day renews the spirit of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism. He emphasized that the goal of independence was to build a non-discriminatory, democratic, peaceful, and prosperous Bangladesh, and urged everyone to unite to achieve that vision.

In his message, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all citizens of Bangladesh and expatriates on the occasion of the Great Independence and National Day. He paid deep respect to the martyrs and freedom fighters whose sacrifices brought independence and sovereignty to the nation, and prayed for the departed souls of all martyrs.

Tarique Rahman further stated that national unity, mutual tolerance, and patriotism are essential to accelerate the country’s progress and development. He called on everyone to dedicate themselves to the welfare of the nation and work collectively to build a developed, prosperous, and dignified Bangladesh.

Barrister Md. Ruhul Kudduz Kajol has been appointed as the 18th Attorney General of Bangladesh. Following his appointment on Wednesday, he stated that he would not obstruct anyone’s pursuit of justice. The Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs issued the official notification of his appointment earlier in the day.

Kajol is a senior advocate of the Supreme Court with extensive legal experience. He previously served three terms as the elected secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association and held positions as a member of the Bar Council and chairman of its executive committee. His legal career began in 1995 at the Dhaka District and Sessions Judge Court, and he was later enrolled as an advocate in the Supreme Court and the Appellate Division.

Kajol holds law degrees from the University of Dhaka, the University of London, and City University, and he is a barrister-at-law from Lincoln’s Inn. He is also active in politics as a central committee member of the BNP and senior joint secretary general of the Nationalist Lawyers’ Forum.

Opposition Leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman warned that any attempt to establish a new form of fascism in Bangladesh would be resisted with the support of the people. Speaking on Wednesday afternoon at the National Press Club auditorium in Dhaka, during a discussion organized by Jamaat-e-Islami Dhaka South to mark Independence and National Day, he said the opposition would not compromise with those who undermine citizens’ rights and vowed to continue the struggle until those rights are secured.

Dr. Rahman stated that while the opposition wants the government to succeed, it will intervene if the government takes a wrong path. He urged the government to overcome narrow-mindedness, engage all parties in dialogue, and pursue reforms in the national interest. He also cautioned that if reforms are not addressed in parliament, the opposition would take to the streets.

The event was presided over by Jamaat leader Abdus Sabur Fakir and attended by LDP Chairman Col. (Retd.) Oli Ahmad and other senior Jamaat officials, who also delivered speeches.

Bangladesh is celebrating its 56th Independence Day today, March 26, 2026, marking the beginning of the nation’s liberation struggle in 1971 that culminated in victory on December 16 of the same year. The day is being observed nationwide with tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for independence. This year’s celebration takes place in what is described as a fully democratic environment following recent political changes.

According to the report, the country is observing the day free from what it calls a fascist regime that lasted over fifteen years. After the ouster of former leader Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 and the formation of a new government through elections in February 2026, citizens are now able to celebrate the day freely. President Md. Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued messages urging unity, justice, and national progress.

Official programs include a 31-gun salute, wreath-laying at the National Memorial, a parade and fly-past at the National Parade Ground, and cultural events across the country. Political parties and social organizations are also holding separate commemorative activities.

Bangladesh’s Minister for Road Transport, Bridges, Shipping, and Railways, Sheikh Robiul Alam, expressed deep sorrow over the bus accident at Daulatdia ghat in Rajbari, where a passenger bus carrying more than fifty people sank into the Padma River while boarding a ferry. In a condolence message issued Wednesday night, the minister described the incident as a national tragedy and confirmed that rescue operations began immediately after the accident.

According to the minister, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority’s rescue vessel ‘Hamza’ and diving teams are working tirelessly, supported by the Fire Service, BIWTC, Army, Police, Naval Police, and local administration. Prime Minister Tarek Rahman is monitoring the rescue efforts and has instructed that they be completed as quickly as possible. A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the accident, and those responsible will face legal consequences.

The minister offered prayers for the deceased, conveyed condolences to the bereaved families, and directed authorities to ensure proper medical care for the injured. He also assured maximum government assistance for affected families.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that Iran is closely monitoring the movements of US military forces in the region, particularly troop deployments. In a social media post, he warned against testing Iran’s determination to defend its territory.

According to CBS News, a partner of the BBC in the United States, the Pentagon is preparing to send troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the region, including infantry units and a command element. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the Trump administration once viewed Ghalibaf as a potential ally and possible future leader of Iran.

The statements come amid heightened regional tensions, with both Iran and the United States signaling vigilance over military activities in the Middle East.

Rangpur-2 (Taraganj-Badarganj) Member of Parliament and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami central Nayebe Ameer ATM Azharul Islam held a meeting with local residents and party officials in Taraganj, Rangpur, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The event took place at the Taraganj Waqf Kamil Madrasa premises, where he discussed local issues with representatives from five unions. The meeting was chaired by Upazila Jamaat Ameer S.M. Alamgir Hossain and attended by district and upazila leaders.

During the session, participants from various professions shared their problems and expectations. The MP listened attentively and assured that necessary steps would be taken. Earlier, as part of post-Eid activities, he visited several areas in Alampur Union, exchanged greetings with residents, and instructed local officials to record complaints and concerns.

Addressing roadside gatherings, Azharul Islam emphasized that every taka of government allocation would be spent for public welfare and none would be misused. He also urged collective efforts to build a drug-free society, highlighting the vital role of youth in creating a healthy community.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan has called on all communities from the hills and plains to work together to safeguard Bangladesh’s sovereignty and build a corruption-free, modern nation. He made the remarks on Wednesday at a post-Eid reunion discussion held at the ministry’s conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat.

During the event, the minister highlighted the cultural diversity of the hill region, noting its distinct and sensitive nature compared to other parts of the country. He announced that a colorful New Year festival will be held in Dhaka on April 12, 2026, and that the celebration will include all ethnic communities by recognizing their individual festival names such as Biju, Sangrai, Baisu, Bishu, Changkran, and Sangkrain. Dewan also emphasized reducing unemployment in the hill areas and filling vacant government positions appropriately.

He recalled the tragic events of March 25, 1971, marking Genocide Day, and expressed his commitment to building a prosperous Bangladesh under Prime Minister Tareq Rahman’s leadership based on equality, human dignity, and social justice.