Amid speculation over a likely defence deal with Washington, Dhaka yesterday said any deal, whether with the US or any other country, will be signed protecting the interests of the country and its people.

The government is set to launch exploration offers for all 26 offshore blocks today under a significantly relaxed framework featuring lower qualification thresholds, reduced entry costs and a series of commercial safeguards aimed at lowering investor risk in the Bay of Bengal.

Unicef is deeply shocked and saddened by the recent brutal violence against children reported across Bangladesh, including the rape and killing of girls and boys in settings where they should have been safe, said country representative Rana Flowers yesterday.

The Election Commission’s proposal for a nearly Tk 493 crore infrastructure project was turned down by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) on May 13, with the government directing the commission to use space in upazila complexes instead of constructing new offices.

The BNP-led government came to office with a mandate for change, but its first three months have yet to show a clear break from old practices, speakers said yesterday, citing politicised institutions, weak law and order, investment conditions and foreign policy choices.

MM Murshid, a prominent figure in the country’s insurance and financial sector, passed away at a hospital in Dhaka on May 20, aged 87, said a press release.

Decisions regarding defence deals will not just come from the MoFA, says state minister

Latest adjustment follows a previous cut of Tk 22.35 per litre on May 7

Residents of building discover body

Photos of injuries spark outrage; police say suspect on the run

NCP spokesperson denies approving any project file without secretary’s signature during interim govt period

Offers free goat to buyers meeting asking price

156 organisations call for ‘zero tolerance’ policy, speedy trials, swift justice

He had served as Sheikh Hasina’s lawyer during 1/11 caretaker government

Chemical test report also submitted

Chargesheet expected by tomorrow, says Home Minister Salahuddin

Ongoing four-lane construction and weak traffic management are causing hours-long tailbacks between Ashuganj and Sarail Bishwa Road

Md Abdus Salam says new larvae control campaign launched; expert warns insecticides alone are not enough to curb mosquito breeding

Rule of law must prevail, he says

Govt aims to file chargesheet before Eid holidays and begin trial soon after