Fisheries Adviser Farida Akhter has stressed the urgent need to protect all varieties of fish — especially native species that are on the brink of extinction — in order to meet the country’s protein demands. She emphasized the importance of increasing the production of fish through sustainable and scientific farming practices. “Many are engaging in commercial fish farming without proper planning,” she warned, urging fisheries officials to continue their efforts in educating and training farmers. She highlighted the superior taste and nutritional value of native fish, noting that no other country boasts such rich biodiversity in its aquatic life. Expressing concern over the sharp decline in native fish populations, she called for all development projects in this sector to meet international standards — assuring that the government is ready to provide full support.

Tensions have flared along the Naikhongchhari border between Bangladesh and Myanmar following the abduction of a Bangladeshi woodcutter by the Arakan Army. The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been actively working to secure his release through several rounds of meetings and operations. However, no response has been received from the insurgent group. Lieutenant Colonel Kapil Uddin Kayes confirmed that efforts are ongoing despite the complexity of dealing with issues between two nations. The abduction of Mofiz has sparked widespread anger among locals, especially in three border villages, where thousands have gathered in protest. A public meeting at Phultali School field declared a halt to all communication across the border, demanding Mofizur Rahman’s immediate return. Protest rallies and announcements over loudspeakers echoed throughout the region.

Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid has urged the nation to embrace a renewed sense of love, unity, and commitment. “It’s time to think afresh, to love afresh, and to move forward with everyone,” she said. “Small joys create deep meaning, while chasing big achievements often brings sorrow — which we must avoid.” She emphasized the importance of holding onto a Bangladesh built by and for all its people, making this a collective vow for the New Year. Referring to the sacrifices of the younger generation during past movements, she said, “I don’t know if they saw the dream they gave their lives for, but we must dream it on their behalf.” Addressing the youth, she reminded them that they represent 51% of the population through the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and urged them to realize their immense potential and power — power that, if recognized, would never let such a vital ministry remain sidelined.

Despite ongoing wartime turbulence, the Russian ruble has outperformed all global currencies, becoming the best-performing currency against the US dollar in 2025. According to Bloomberg data, the ruble has appreciated by 38% since the start of the year. This surge is largely attributed to declining confidence in the US dollar, exacerbated by former President Trump’s global trade conflicts.

Investment returns on the ruble have surpassed those of the Swedish krona and Swiss franc, which appreciated by 13% and 11% respectively. The British pound also recorded a modest gain of around 6%. Meanwhile, gold and silver prices have risen by 23% and 12%, respectively. The ruble’s remarkable performance has been bolstered by Russia’s high interest rates—currently set at 21% by the central bank—and restrictions on capital outflow for foreign companies.

Prosecutor Gazi Monowar Hossain Tamim said the investigation into the July massacre case against fugitive Sheikh Hasina is nearly complete. The case, along with others against Awami League leaders and law enforcement chiefs, is person-specific and based on direct involvement. “Hasina is the central figure behind all these crimes,” he claimed, adding that additional cases related to incidents in Ashulia, Rampura, and Chankharpul are under review, with priority given to the most brutal ones.

Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan inaugurated the newly installed GM 403M air defense radar at the 71st Squadron of the Bangladesh Air Force. The advanced system is expected to significantly enhance the country’s aerial defense and technological capabilities, reinforcing the BAF’s commitment to securing Bangladeshi airspace.

A World Population Review study listed the top 10 most hated countries globally, with China at the top and India in 10th place. India’s rising religious tension, treatment of minorities, and internet censorship have hurt its global image. Border disputes and internal unrest further fuel this negative perception. China is widely criticized for its authoritarian rule, suppression of freedoms, and treatment of Uyghur Muslims. The U.S., Russia, North Korea, and Israel also appear in the top five.

Rajshahi University has approved the amended constitution of its student union (RAKSU) and formed a 7-member election commission. Finance Professor Md. Amzad Hossain will serve as Chief Election Commissioner. Other members include Professors Nizam Uddin, F. Nazrul Islam, Enamul Haque, Abdul Hannan, Aminul Haque, and Mostafa Kamal Akand. Elections are expected between the third and fourth weeks of June.

For the first time, over 100 Jews were seen praying at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Wednesday, marking a significant deviation from long-standing agreements and customs. Historically, no more than 30 individuals were allowed to enter together, and while Jews could visit the compound, they were not permitted to pray there. This arrangement stems from a post-1967 agreement after Israel took control of East Jerusalem. Despite the agreement, Jewish groups have increasingly prayed at what they refer to as the Temple Mount, drawing criticism. Israel’s Chief Rabbinate has previously declared that only spiritually pure Jews should pray there, a stance Orthodox groups have criticized as discriminatory. Even some Israeli ministers have defied the agreement by praying at the site, raising fears of further tensions and violence.

TIME Magazine has named Nobel Laureate and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus in its 2025 list of the world’s 100 most influential individuals. The list includes global leaders, innovators, and cultural icons like Donald Trump, Elon Musk, JD Vance, Claudia Sheinbaum, and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Dr. Yunus took office on August 8, following Sheikh Hasina’s fall from power and exile in Delhi amidst a popular uprising.

NCP leader Sharmin Shamanta stated that BNP’s recent formal meeting with the Chief Adviser was expected, given the interim government’s historical favoring of BNP. However, she warned against setting a specific election date solely to satisfy one party, noting that other political groups would feel alienated. “The roadmap should follow the July Charter and include consensus-based reforms. Public support will shift based on parties’ stances on reform,” she said.

A delegation led by Economic Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed will meet USTR representatives next week over a 37% retaliatory tariff. Adviser Bashiruddin said, “The cancellation of transshipment facilities will increase our costs by about BDT 2,000 crore. We’re engaged in round-the-clock talks.” He emphasized inflation is declining and purchasing power is improving, which may cushion families from rising product prices.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said they’ve submitted reform proposals and are hopeful of early elections. “The Chief Adviser himself said reforms will be based on national consensus. We’ve identified common grounds — with consensus, reforms can be done in a month.” He added that the U.S. delegation inquired about BNP’s economic and political policies, to which they assured larger structural reforms ahead.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu entered northern Gaza on Tuesday and met with IDF troops. His office confirmed the visit, during which Netanyahu warned Hamas of “more strikes.” He showed Israeli soldiers a social media post by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, reiterating calls for Israel’s destruction. Over 51,000 Palestinians have reportedly died since the Israeli offensive began more than 18 months ago.

U.S. President Donald Trump has increased tariffs on Chinese imports to a staggering 245%. The White House cited China’s retaliatory actions, including a ban on exporting six heavy rare earth metals and magnets essential for military, aerospace, and semiconductor industries. The administration accused China of deliberately restricting critical materials like gallium, germanium, and antimony. The move is framed as part of Trump’s “America First” trade policy.