Japan has agreed to provide Bangladesh with five patrol vessels for coastal area surveillance. The decision was shared by Japan’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Saida Shinichi, during a meeting with Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Japan will also supply air pollution monitoring equipment and is prepared to sign an agreement with Bangladesh. Both nations discussed cooperation on the ongoing Economic Partnership Agreement, as well as Japan’s support for Bangladesh in managing the Rohingya crisis.

After 470 days of devastation in Gaza, more than 300,000 Palestinians returned to their homes in northern Gaza, one of the most severely impacted regions. The Israeli Defense Forces’ 15-month-long operation left much of the area in ruins, forcing many residents to seek refuge in southern and central Gaza. Despite the widespread destruction, residents are determined to rebuild their homes, with tens of thousands of tents required as temporary shelters for the displaced.

In Kaliganj, Satkhira, clashes between two factions of the BNP over union committee formation led to tensions and violence, including brick-throwing and baton charges. The district administration imposed Section 144 to control the situation. One faction, led by Sheikh Ibadul Islam, held a rally, which was countered by another faction led by Sheikh Nuruzzaman and Jahangir Alam. The conflict arose from accusations of including pro-Awami League members in the committees, resulting in protests and a chaotic scene.

New Zealand has simplified travel visa rules to attract digital nomads and boost its tourism sector. Tourists can now work remotely for foreign employers while staying in the country for up to 90 days. The changes, effective from January 27, aim to increase tourist spending and make New Zealand more appealing for remote workers. However, those requiring physical presence in New Zealand must apply for appropriate visas. The government sees this as a way to revive economic growth after a recent recession.

Amid disruptions in rail services caused by a strike by railway running staff, the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) has introduced an alternative bus service on key rail routes. Passengers can use their valid train tickets to travel on these buses. The service covers routes like Dhaka to Chattogram, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Khulna, Cumilla, Bogura, and Mymensingh. This alternative arrangement will continue until further notice. Bangladesh Railways also assures refunds for tickets of canceled trains.

Train operations across Bangladesh have been suspended due to a work stoppage by Bangladesh Railways’ running staff. Despite fulfilling most of their demands, the staff refused to withdraw their planned strike, causing disruptions starting January 28. Passengers with canceled train journeys will receive refunds for pre-purchased tickets, as confirmed by the Ministry of Railways. Advisor Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan will visit Kamalapur Railway Station to assess the situation. The strike began at midnight on January 27, halting all scheduled train departures from originating stations.

Independent Ibtidai Madrasa teachers have been protesting for 10 consecutive days in Dhaka, demanding nationalization of their schools. Despite enduring harsh conditions and police violence, including baton charges and water cannons, the teachers remain resolute. They have issued a 24-hour ultimatum, warning that if their demand is not met, they will surround the Ministry of Home Affairs. The teachers vow to continue their protest until their demand for nationalization is fulfilled, even at the cost of enduring hunger.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed readiness to continue current cooperation with Bangladesh while exploring ways to enhance the partnership. She emphasized the possibility of a cooperation agreement to deepen ties. In a recent letter to Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, Ursula highlighted the EU’s interest in discussing specific needs with stakeholders and considering additional support that aligns with ongoing initiatives. The move aims to bolster the existing collaboration and explore new opportunities for mutual growth.

Running staff across Bangladesh Railways have gone on strike from midnight Monday, suspending train operations nationwide. Despite appeals and meetings with senior officials, they demand reinstatement of allowances linked to pensions, a benefit they’ve received since 1860. The Finance Ministry deemed the practice illegal in 2021, sparking unrest. With 75,000 intercity seats sold and 300,000 daily train passengers, severe disruptions are expected. Workers demand resolution, citing exhaustion from extended hours due to manpower shortages, while the Railway Ministry struggles to resolve the impasse.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent New Year greetings to Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government. On January 27, Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Mojumder confirmed the news, stating that Modi sent a signed card with a New Year message. Professor Yunus has been serving as Chief Adviser since August 8 last year, following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government amid student protests on August 5. Modi’s gesture highlights diplomatic goodwill between the two nations.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir held a meeting with Char Monai Pir and Islami Andolon leader Syed Rezaul Karim at Islami Andolon’s central office in Purana Paltan. Senior leaders of Islami Andolon also attended. The meeting follows efforts to unite Islamic parties, including Jamaat, ahead of the upcoming national election. Char Monai Pir recently emphasized forming a unified voting bloc for Islam. Analysts view BNP’s engagement with Islamic parties as a strategic move to strengthen alliances before the election.

At a discussion in Chuadanga, Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, asserted that the youth cannot be swayed by the allure of power or parliamentary seats. Criticizing the Awami League, he called for justice for victims of political violence, including trials for Sheikh Hasina and others. Abdullah urged political parties to prioritize the people over power, warning that those focused on power often face exile. He also advised the police to avoid political bias and remain neutral.

Students of seven colleges have declared a siege on New Market Police Station if action isn’t taken against the police officers involved in recent attacks on students, including an alleged attempt to murder Dhaka College student Rakib. The announcement was made on Monday evening from Dhaka College’s Shaheed Minar. They also demanded action against Dhaka University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education), Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, within 24 hours. Students called for the withdrawal and investigation of all police officers linked to the incident.

Out of 18,000 Bangladeshi workers who couldn’t travel to Malaysia last year, 7,964 have been initially approved for entry. A Joint Technical Group was formed involving the Malaysian Immigration Department and the Bangladesh High Commission to address the issue. The group held two meetings, verifying information and finalizing the list. Malaysia reopened its labor market in August 2022, and nearly 475,000 workers traveled by May 2024. However, over 18,000 workers faced delays due to ticketing issues, which are now being resolved in phases.

Dhaka University has decided to end its affiliation with seven government colleges starting from the 2024-25 academic year. Admissions for these colleges will no longer be conducted under DU. The decision was made during a meeting between DU authorities and the college principals. A specialized committee formed by the Education Ministry will oversee academic matters, including seat allocation and fees. DU will remain responsible for the academic progress of current students. The move follows student protests demanding administrative independence for the seven colleges.