Table of Contents
Quick Asia Fact:
The World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2023 presents information on eight composite factors to systematically and comprehensively quantify the rule of law around the world. The scores for Nepal and Sri Lanka remain unchanged in 2023. For other selected countries the scores dropped.
Asia Headlines: Quick Recap
‘Everything indicates’ Chinese ship damaged Baltic pipeline on purpose, Finland saysFinland and Estonia have been investigating the rupture of the Balticconnector, a 77-kilometer-long gas pipeline that connects the two NATO members beneath the Baltic Sea. The pipeline was damaged around October 7-8, along with two telecoms cables connecting Estonia to Finland and Sweden. (Politico) *China Decypher will cover it in depth
Russian billionaire, Andrey Melnichenko wants Ice Age Ecosystem Back: A preview in COP 28
Will China pay for the new Climate Change Damage Fund?The U.N. climate summit kicked off Thursday with a parade of wealthy nations offering big-money pledges to help poorer countries cope with the ravages of a warming world — a surprise that turns up the pressure on countries like China to open their checkbooks. Leading the charge was the summit’s oil-rich host, the United Arab Emirates, whose $100 million (€92) million. The European Union said it would give at least €225 million for the fund (including Germany’s pledge). The United Kingdom tossed in £40 million, or approximately €46 million.
Islamic State Claims Responsibility for Deadly Philippine BombingThe Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a bombing at a Catholic mass in the Philippines, which killed at least four people and injured 50 others. The group claimed on Telegram that its members were responsible for the bombing at Mindanao State University in Marawi.
China lures hundreds of Taiwan politicians with cheap trips before electionChina is reportedly sponsoring discounted trips to China for hundreds of Taiwanese politicians ahead of critical elections in the country. Taiwanese officials, including President Tsai Ing-wen, have warned of Chinese meddling in election campaigns in favour of candidates advocating closer ties with Beijing.
11 climbers killed as Indonesia volcano erupts, survivors found, says officialEleven climbers were discovered dead after the Mount Marapi volcano in Indonesia erupted. Three survivors were discovered, as well as the bodies of the deceased. On December 3, the 2,891-meter-high volcano erupted, spewing ash up to 3 kilometres high.
Israel says ground forces operating across Gaza Strip as offensive buildsIsraeli ground forces have begun operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, with clashes reported near the southern city of Khan Younis. The Israeli military ordered the evacuation of some areas but made no official announcement of a ground offensive.
N. Korea's spy satellite operation office begins mission: state mediaNorth Korea's military reconnaissance satellite, Malligyong-1, has begun its mission, according to the country's state news agency. The satellite was successfully launched into orbit on November 21, and its operational mission began on December 2 following a "fine-tuning" process.
Argentina refused to join BRICSArgentina's President-elect, Javier Milei, has no plans to join BRICS, according to his foreign policy adviser Diana Mondino. Milei, representing the "Freedom is Coming" coalition, won the presidential election on November 19.
Western intelligence tracking Iran's movements in Red Sea
Af-Pak De/Cypher
4 Dec, 2023
Monday
Pakistan, UAE ink MoUs for mega investments
Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth billions of dollars, paving the way for investments in energy, ports, food security, and other sectors. Read more: The Express Tribune
IMF technical team arrives in Pakistan to discuss tax reforms, policy
A technical team from the IMF has arrived in Pakistan to discuss tax reforms and policy. The team will meet with officials from the FBR and the Finance Ministry to discuss expanding the tax net and income, as well as to provide technical assistance in enforcing tax policy. Read more: Daily Islamabad Post
Pakistan kicks off nationwide polio vaccination campaign to immunise over 45 million children
Pakistan has relaunched its national polio vaccination campaign, with the goal of immunising 45 million children. The campaign had been halted due to militant threats, but it has now been restarted in an effort to eradicate polio from the country. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Kohinoor Spinning, Abu Dhabi-based group enter MoU for mineral-based business in Pakistan
UAE-based conglomerate Nation Trust Holding (TNTH) and Pakistani yarn manufacturer Kohinoor Spinning Mills Limited (KOSM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a raw and value-added mineral-based business in Pakistan. Read more: Business Recorder
Tuesday
Imran’s cipher case trial to be held at Adiala Jail
Imran Khan and Shah Mahmood Qureshi will stand trial in the cypher case at Adiala Jail. The trial will be open to the public as well as the accused's family members. The judge stated that the court could not ignore the threats to Imran's life. Read more: The Express Tribune
ADB approves $180mn to improve Punjab’s water supply & waste management
The Asian Development Bank has approved a $180 million loan to improve water supply and solid waste management services in the Pakistani cities of Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur. The project will benefit 1.5 million people by constructing new water treatment plants and landfills as well as upgrading existing infrastructure. Read more: Business Recorder
PM Kakar arrives in Kuwait on two-day official visit
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar arrived in Kuwait for a two-day official visit. During his visit, he will meet with Kuwaiti leaders and sign a number of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in a variety of sectors. Read more: Pakistan Today
PTI to elect new party chairman as Imran Khan withdraws from the race
Imran Khan, chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has decided not to run for re-election. This decision follows his five-year suspension from public office in the Toshakhana case. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Foreign companies repatriate record $272.5m in October
In October, foreign companies operating in Pakistan repatriated a record $272.5 million in profits, the second month in a row of unrestricted profit repatriation. Read more: The Express Tribune
Security forces kill two terrorists in Balochistan’s Kalat district IBO
Two terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) carried out by security forces in the general area of Balochistan's Kalat District's Nagao Mountains. Read more: The News International
Wednesday
Imran not in running for intra-party elections, Gohar nominated as chairman
Imran Khan, the chairman of the PTI, will not run in the upcoming intra-party elections. Until Khan's legal issues are resolved, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has been nominated for the position of party chairman. Gohar Khan has accepted the nomination. Read more: Mashriq Vibe
Pakistan implements ban on wheat imports from India and Israel
Pakistan has banned wheat imports from India, Israel, Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea, and Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories. The ban is being implemented due to financial difficulties and rising flour prices. Read more: Pakistan Today
Afghan envoy told to extradite man behind Bannu attack
Pakistan summoned the Afghan envoy to make four demands, including the extradition of a man suspected of carrying out a recent suicide attack in Bannu. Pakistan also demanded that the Afghan Taliban take action against all terrorist groups and prohibit terrorist attacks on Afghan soil. Read more: The Express Tribune
Outflows jump almost 21 times in October
The repatriation of profit and dividends on foreign investments surged almost 21 times year-on-year to $272.5 million in October. Profits were $485.4 million in July-October, up from $71 million in the same period the previous fiscal year, a nearly sevenfold increase. Read more: Dawn
IHC acquits Nawaz Sharif in Avenfield reference
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has been acquitted in the Avenfield reference case by the Islamabad High Court, overturning his 2018 conviction for corruption. The anti-corruption watchdog failed to present substantial evidence against Sharif. Read more: The News International
Saudi Fund for Development extends term of $3bn deposit for another year: SBP
Saudi Arabia has extended the term of a $3 billion deposit with Pakistan for an additional year, bolstering the country's foreign exchange reserves and economic growth. This extension reflects the two countries' close relationship. Read more: Business Recorder
Thursday
Petitions seeking poll delay land before ECP
Due to security concerns and snowfall in several districts, two petitions have been filed with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) requesting that general elections be postponed. Read more: Dawn
Pakistan inks several agreements with Kuwait to attract multi-billion dollars investment
Pakistan and Kuwait have strengthened their bilateral relationship by signing seven agreements and three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), with the goal of attracting multibillion-dollar investment. Read more: Daily Pakistan
In letter to CJP Isa, Imran Khan seeks equal opportunities for PTI to participate in Feb 8 polls
Imran Khan, Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has written to Pakistan Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, requesting equal opportunities for the PTI in the upcoming 2024 general elections. Read more: The News International
US offers support to update Pak IP regulations
The US Intellectual Property Counsellor for South Asia, John Cabecca, expressed support for enhancing intellectual property (IP) regulations in Pakistan during a visit to the Intellectual Property Organisation of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan) headquarters. Read more: The Express Tribune
MoU between Punjab Police, Jiangsu to promote LEAs cooperation: Baligh
During a meeting with a Chinese Jiangsu Police delegation, Punjab Governor Muhammad Baligh-ur-Rehman emphasised Pakistan's strong bond with China. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Punjab Police and Jiangsu Province will strengthen bilateral cooperation among law enforcement agencies. Read more: Pakistan Today
IHC stays 40pc windfall tax on banks
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) temporarily suspended the government's imposition of a one-time 40% windfall tax on bank profits derived from foreign exchange transactions over the previous two years. Read more: Voice News
Friday
PM holds interactions with world leaders on COP 28 sidelines
Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar held informal interactions with several world leaders on the sidelines of the COP28 summit, including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and British King Charles III. Read more: Pakistan Today
£190 million settlement case: NAB submits reference against Imran Khan in court
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) filed a corruption reference against former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and several others in connection with the £190 million settlement case. The reference comes just days after the cabinet approved Khan's jail trial in corruption cases. Read more: The News International
Pak, China hold 4th Round of Maritime Cooperation
On Thursday, Pakistan and China held the fourth round of maritime dialogue to review bilateral maritime cooperation. The two sides discussed naval exchanges, regional cooperation, the development of maritime infrastructure, among other matters. Read more: The Express Tribune
South Asia’s first gender bond launched
Kashf Foundation and InfraZamin Pakistan have announced the completion of South Asia's first gender bond, which raised Rs2.5 billion for loans to women entrepreneurs and flood victims. Read more: Dawn
Foreign reserves surge by $77 million
Pakistan increased its foreign exchange reserves by $77 million to $7,257 million. The total liquid foreign currency reserves, including commercial bank reserves, were $12,392.8 million. Read more: The Express Tribune
China Gifts Lightning Detectors to Pakistan Worth $1 Million
China has given Pakistan 25 meteorological detectors as a gift in order to provide early warning of lightning strikes. The detectors will be installed across the country to help protect people and property from lightning-related disasters. Read more: BNN
Saturday
Indiscriminate firing on bus leaves 9 dead, several injured in Gilgit Baltistan
On Saturday, unidentified militants attacked a passenger bus in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, killing nine people and injuring 25 others. The attackers opened fire on the bus, causing it to collide with a cargo truck. Read more: Pakistan Today
Over $1b being invested in K-P power project
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has secured $1.03 billion in foreign direct investment for the 470MW Lower Spat Gah Hydro Power Project through a government-to-government agreement with South Korea. Read more: The Express Tribune
Annual inflation jumps to 29.2pc in November
Pakistan's annual inflation rate surged to 29.2% in November, driven by sharp increases in gas and electricity prices. The month-on-month inflation rate also rose to 2.7%, the highest since July. The main contributors to inflation were gas charges, which rose by 520%, and textbooks, which rose by 94.7%. Read more: Dawn
NAB files Rs1.2b graft reference against Pervaiz Elahi, Moonis
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has filed a Rs 1.2 billion corruption reference in a Lahore court against Pervaiz Elahi, his son Moonis, and 11 others. The case involves alleged bribery and kickbacks totalling Rs1.23 billion related to Gujrat development projects. Read more: Pakistan Today
14 ‘terrorists’ linked to TTP, other banned outfits arrested: Punjab CTD
The Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) arrested 14 suspected terrorists linked to banned organisations, including Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and Jamaatul Ahrar, during operations in various cities across the province. Read more: ARY News
Sunday
Pakistan moves closer to signing landmark trade agreement with GCC
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have reached an agreement on investment modalities, paving the way for a long-awaited free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) after 19 years. The agreement, which includes an investment chapter, is awaiting approval at the GCC Foreign Ministers' meeting. Read more: Dawn
China to Support Pakistan in Developing Best-quality Hybrid Seeds
China has promised to assist Pakistan in the development of high-quality disease-resistant hybrid seeds for canola, cotton, and wheat crops. Through shared expertise and resources, this collaboration aims to increase crop production, meet textile industry demands, and improve agricultural innovation. Read more: World Echo News
Pakistan urges developed nations to fulfill $100b commitment for climate finance
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Kakar calls on developed nations to fulfil the $100 billion commitment for climate finance at the United Nations Conference in Dubai, emphasising the importance of assisting developing nations without adding to their debt burden. Read more: Daily Pakistan
Fazlur Rehman to be next president: JUI-F
The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) has declared that its leader, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, will become Pakistan's next president regardless of whether the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) or the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) secures a majority in the upcoming general elections. Read more: The News International
97 new dengue cases reported in Punjab
Punjab has reported 97 new dengue cases this year, bringing the total to 14,432 cases. Lahore leads the way with 6,602 cases, prompting health officials to urge citizens to keep their surroundings clean. Read more: Pakistan Today
Decypher Report Analysis
How Pakistan Got The Nuclear Bomb? The Story from the Wilson Centre Documents A Timeline.
The full report is available here: Wilson Center
Pakistan developed nuclear weapons in response to India's nuclear program, initiated in the 1970s by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. General Zia-ul-Haq, who took power in 1977, led significant progress in the nuclear weapons program, guided by scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan. Assistance from networks and black-market suppliers, including the A.Q. Khan network, facilitated the acquisition of technology and materials.
Despite international efforts, Pakistan successfully tested its first nuclear weapon in May 1998, with details of the acquisition process not fully disclosed. It is recommended to consult diverse sources for a comprehensive understanding. The narrative involves a complex balance between U.S. strategic interests and nuclear proliferation concerns.
In the early 1980s, the Reagan administration grew alarmed about Pakistan's nuclear ambitions. U.S. intelligence detected clandestine efforts to procure nuclear components. In July 1982, CIA deputy director General Vernon Walters secretly met with General Zia-ul-Haq, presenting evidence of transferring nuclear weapon designs and specifications.
Timeline of Events
During a meeting, Zia acknowledges information authenticity but denies Pakistan's involvement in nuclear weapons. Walters concludes Zia is either unaware or a "superb liar."
- Reagan administration grapples with a dilemma: concern over nuclear proliferation versus seeing Pakistan as a vital ally against Soviet forces in Afghanistan.
- U.S. adopts a two-step approach, offering incentives like F-16 fighter jet sales while warning Zia of consequences for continued nuclear activities.
- Divisions in the U.S. government on the approach to Pakistan's nuclear program, with some advocating a tougher stance and others emphasizing maintaining relations.
- Balancing aid and non-proliferation concerns, fearing cut-off could impact the Afghan war, the Reagan administration sought a delicate balance.
- Despite diplomatic efforts to curb nuclear technology export, ongoing concerns persist about Pakistan's nuclear program.
- The U.S.-Pakistan relationship on the nuclear program remains complex and delicate, facing challenges in balancing strategic interests, aid, and global non-proliferation goals in the 1980s.
Fact of the week!!!
Bangladesh De/Cypher
4 Dec, 2023
Monday
Jatiya Party announces candidates for 287 JS seats
The Jatiya Party has announced candidates for 287 of the 300 constituencies in the upcoming general election. Raushan Ershad, the party's chief patron, and her supporters are not yet on the list due to their own demands. Read more: New Age
28 BNP leaders-activists indicted in sabotage case
A Dhaka court has indicted 28 BNP leaders and activists in a sabotage case filed in 2018. The court has also set December 6 as the start date for recording the depositions of the witnesses. Read more: The Business Standard BD
‘Personal Data Protection Act’ okayed in principle
Bangladesh has approved the "Personal Data Protection Act 2023" in principle, which will regulate the collection, processing, storage, use, transfer, disclosure, and destruction of personal data in both the public and private sectors. Read more: Bangladesh Posts
US Ambassador Peter Haas returns to Dhaka
US Ambassador Peter Haas returned to Dhaka on Monday after a vacation. He arrived on a Sri Lankan Airlines flight. It is unclear whether he returned directly from Colombo or if it was a stopover. Read more: Dhaka Tribune
External influence exerted on the election: CEC
Bangladesh's chief election commissioner, Kazi Habibul Awal, has expressed concern about outside interference in the upcoming elections. He urged free, fair, and credible elections to protect the country's economy and future. Read more: Prothom Alo
Tuesday
Govt inks $1.026b loan deal with ADB for 5 projects
Bangladesh has signed loan agreements with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) totalling $1.026 billion for five projects aimed at improving energy efficiency, establishing domestic vaccine production, strengthening technology programmes, delivering clean water, and upgrading road infrastructure. Read more: Business Post BD
British MP Samuel Tarry visits Dhaka
British MP Samuel Tarry is currently in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on a four-day visit at the invitation of UDDIPAN, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the socioeconomic development of the country's disadvantaged and marginalised populations. Read more: The Daily Observer BD
Reserves now at $19.52 billion: Bangladesh Bank
Bangladesh's usable reserves, excluding local investments, are $19.52 billion, according to the IMF's BPM6 method. According to the Bangladesh Bank, the gross reserve is $25.16 billion, with the entire $19.52 billion immediately usable and the remainder pending investment realisation. Read more: The Business Standard
No one will try to interfere with Bangladesh-China cooperation: Ambassador Yao
China's Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, reaffirmed China and Bangladesh's strong partnership and emphasised the importance of people-to-people exchanges. He stated that China is committed to providing more training programmes for Bangladeshis and will increase direct flights between the two countries. Read more: Daily Naya Diganta
Frequent cyclones hit agriculture hard in coastal Bangladesh
Due to the frequency of cyclones, coastal farmers in Bangladesh are suffering widespread crop losses. The recent cyclone, Midhili, caused an estimated Tk 387 crore in crop damage, particularly aman paddy, which is not yet ready for harvest. Read more: New Age
Wednesday
Trinamool BNP announces candidate list for 230 seats
Trinamool BNP, a new political party with government backing, has announced candidates in 230 constituencies for the upcoming national elections. Five former lawmakers are among the candidates. Read more: Daily Naya Diganta
Sajeeb Wazed resigns as prime minister's ICT advisor
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed, resigned as her ICT advisor, part of an effort to reduce the cabinet before the upcoming national elections. Read more: BD News 24
BNP offices in 56 districts remain locked
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has closed its offices in the majority of the country's districts. The government's crackdown on the opposition party has resulted in the arrest of thousands of BNP leaders and activists. Read more: Prothom Alo
EU technical team to monitor election process in Dhaka
The European Union has dispatched a four-member technical team to Bangladesh to monitor the upcoming national election. The team will start working on Sunday. Due to budget constraints, the EU will not send a full-fledged election observation team. Read more: The Daily Sun
Sand mining in Padma puts dam under threat
Sand miners are extracting sand illegally near the dam in the Islampara area of Sara Union of Ishwardi in Pabna. This has caused the river's course to change, resulting in river erosion in several places. The dam is now in jeopardy and could be destroyed in the event of a flash flood. Read more: The Daily Ittefaq
Thursday
Ambassador Haas, Foreign Secretary Masud discussed ongoing developments: US Embassy
The United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, met with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen at the State Guesthouse Padma to discuss ongoing bilateral relations. Read more: The Business Standard
EC issues showcause notice to AL candidate Shakib
The Election Commission issued a showcause notice to Shakib Al Hasan, the Awami League's candidate for Magura-1, for violating the electoral code. Shakib is accused of obstructing traffic on November 29 during a civic reception in Magura city. Read more: The Daily Sun
Climate change depletes Bangladesh's GDP by 9.4% in 2022
Bangladesh faced a 9.4% GDP decline in 2022 due to climate change, with a potential range of 7-12%. The University of Delaware's report revealed a global 6.3% population-weighted GDP loss, hitting low-income countries hardest. Read more: The Business Post
BNP leader Shahjahan Omar gets AL ticket a day after coming out of jail
Shahjahan Omar, the BNP's vice chairman, joined the Awami League the day after his release from prison, filing a nomination for the Jhalakathi-1 constituency. He resigned from the BNP at a press conference in Karwan Bazar, confirming his switch to AL. Read more: Prothom Alo
Jatiya Party’s Raushan Ershad says she won’t participate in election
Rawshan Ershad, the Jatiya Party's chief patron, announced her decision not to run in Bangladesh's general election on January 7. She expressed disappointment that tested leaders were not nominated after a meeting with party supporters, blaming a lack of cooperation from the party chairman and secretary general. Read more: New Age
Friday
UN will not send polls observers to BD
According to UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, the United Nations will not send observers to monitor Bangladesh's 12th national parliamentary elections. In response to harassment allegations, Dujarric emphasised the UN's unusual deployment of observers without a specific mandate. Read more: The Daily Observer BD
AL hopes US envoy to maintain diplomatic norms
General Secretary of the Awami League (AL) Obaidul Quader expressed hope that US Ambassador Peter Haas would follow diplomatic protocol. Quader emphasised the government's commitment to free and fair elections and questioned the need for sanctions imposed by the US. Read more: New Age
7.64% consumers still have to bribe to get power connections: Survey
7.64% of Bangladeshi consumers report having to bribe officials for electricity connections, according to a survey conducted by Micro Industries Development Assistance and Services. According to the survey, 65% of customers have continuous power supply. Read more: The Business Post
EU wants Bangladesh to act on labour rights as pledged
The European Union (EU) urges Bangladesh to expedite the implementation of labour rights commitments outlined in the National Action Plan and ILO road map. Read more: The Business Standard
BNP, 38 others want polls schedule to be scrapped
In a joint meeting, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and 38 other opposition parties demand the cancellation of the 12th parliamentary election schedule, accusing the government of planning a one-sided election against public aspirations. Read more: Prothom Alo
Saturday
Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts Dhaka, other parts of Bangladesh
Bangladesh was struck by a 5.6 magnitude earthquake, centred in Ramganj, Laksmipur, with tremors felt in Dhaka and other districts. There were no immediate casualties or damage reported. Read more: The Daily Star
Mongla Port earns revenue of Tk30,241.68cr in FY23
During the fiscal year 2022-23, Mongla Port, Bangladesh's second-largest seaport, generated Tk30,241.68 crore in revenue. The port handled 99.05 lakh tonnes of cargo and received 827 commercial ships. Read more: The Business Post
2,712 aspirants to vie for 300 seats: 12th JS election
A total of 2,712 candidates, including 1,965 from political parties and 747 independents, will compete for 300 seats in Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary election on January 7, 2023. Read more: Rtv Online
BNP holds virtual meeting with EU delegation
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) met with the European Union's election expert mission virtually. The BNP delegation, led by Abdul Moyeen Khan, discussed issues such as party leader arrests, fictitious cases, convictions, and alleged one-sided elections. Read more: Prothom Alo
UNIDO adopts Bangladesh-initiated resolution on sustainable supply chain
The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) adopted Bangladesh's resolution on strengthening capacities for sustainable supply chains at its 20th General Conference in Vienna. Read more: The Business Standard
Bangladesh elected IMO council member
Bangladesh won a historic seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council in Category C, with 128 votes out of 175. This is Bangladesh's first victory in the highly competitive category. Read more: Rising BD
Sunday
Bangladesh records 742 hospitalisations from dengue in a day, death toll rises by 3
Bangladesh reports 742 new dengue hospitalisations per day, bringing the total for 2023 to 313,706. The death toll now stands at 1,632. Read more: BD News 24
Fakhrul approaches High Court, seeking bail
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has applied to the High Court for bail in connection with the attack on the Chief Justice's residence. Read more: Somoy News
Momen urges Kosovo to import RMG, medicines from Bangladesh
Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has encouraged Kosovo to import high-quality readymade garments (RMG) and pharmaceuticals from his country. Read more: The Financial Express
Many AL nominees, MPs lose candidacy
Numerous candidates, including Awami League nominees and sitting MPs, faced cancellations or suspensions during nomination scrutiny in Bangladesh. The Election Commission will hear appeals until December 15, with a withdrawal deadline on December 17. Read more: New Age
Nov remittance show YoY upward momentum
Remittances to Bangladesh increased by 21.38% year on year in November, reaching $1.93 billion, up from $1.59 billion in the same period last year. This figure, however, was 2.52% lower than October's figure of $1.97 billion. Read more: The Business Post
BNP plans to bring all opposition to one platform
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) seeks to unite opposition parties against the government, particularly ahead of the parliamentary elections on January 7th. Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon are two key targets. Read more: Prothom Alo
Decypher Report Analysis
The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is a strategic framework developed by countries to address the impacts of climate change and enhance their resilience.
Here is a general overview of what a NAP typically entails:
Context and Objectives: Analyses climate vulnerability, outlines goals, and objectives.
Stakeholder Engagement: Involves consultations for diverse perspectives.
Adaptation Strategies: Outlines sector-specific approaches and nature-based solutions.
Implementation Framework: Defines roles, responsibilities, and monitoring systems.
Financing and Resource Mobilisation: Identifies financial resources and mechanisms.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Includes provisions for assessing progress and periodic reviews.
It is important to note that the specific content and structure of a NAP can vary between countries, depending on their unique circumstances, priorities, and capacities. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to its geographical location, low-lying topography, high population density, and dependence on climate-sensitive sectors.
Here are some key climate vulnerabilities in Bangladesh:
1. Sea-Level Rise: Vulnerable delta region faces inundation, displacing populations and causing salinity intrusion with rising global sea levels.
2. Cyclones and Storm Surges: Coastal areas prone to tropical cyclones and surges, leading to widespread destruction and displacement.
3. Flooding: Monsoon season brings riverine and flash floods, impacting agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
4. Drought: Despite high rainfall, dry seasons bring water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and rural vulnerability.
5. Water Resources: Reliance on rivers and groundwater faces challenges with changing rainfall patterns and increased evaporation.
6. Agriculture and Food Security: Extreme weather events, floods, droughts, and salinity intrusion pose risks to crops and food security.
7. Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Climate change threatens mangrove forests like the Sundarbans, impacting coastal protection, fisheries, and tourism.
Addressing Vulnerabilities: Comprehensive strategies involve investments in infrastructure, early warning systems, resilient agriculture, coastal protection, and community-based approaches. Bangladesh, with international partners, actively works on climate adaptation to enhance resilience and mitigate impacts on vulnerable communities and ecosystems.
Climate Stress Areas in Bangladesh:
1. South-western Coastal Area and Sundarbans: High exposure to sea-level rise, cyclones, storm surges, salinity intrusion, and extreme weather, with rising sea levels threatening the Sundarbans.
2. South-east and Eastern Coastal Area: Vulnerable region with major industrial areas, ports, and forests, facing hazards like cyclones, salinity intrusion, and lightning.
3. Chattogram Hill Tracts: Southeastern region prone to flash floods, cyclones, storm surges, droughts, and extreme heat waves.
4. Rivers, Floodplains, and Erosion-Prone Areas: Northern and central districts with river systems, floodplains, and erosion vulnerability, facing river floods, flash floods, and riverbank erosion.
5. Haor and Flash Flood Areas: Districts like Sunamganj, Netrokona, and Sylhet experiencing flash floods, cyclones, tornadoes, and other hazards.
6. Drought-Prone and Barind Areas: North-western districts, including Naogaon and Rajshahi, susceptible to droughts, cyclones, extreme heat, and cold.
7. Northern and North-western Region: Districts like Panchagarh and Rangpur facing varied hazards, including rainfall variability, floods, cyclones, droughts, and landslides.
Climate Vulnerabilities in Bangladesh:
1. South-western Coastal Area and Sundarbans: Highly exposed to sea-level rise, cyclones, storm surges, salinity intrusion, and extreme weather events. The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is particularly threatened by rising sea levels.
2. South-east and Eastern Coastal Area: Vulnerable region with major industrial areas, ports, and forests facing hazards like cyclones, salinity intrusion, and lightning.
3. Chattogram Hill Tracts: Southeastern region, including Rangamati, Khagrachari, and Bandarban districts, prone to flash floods, cyclones, storm surges, droughts, and extreme heat waves.
4. Rivers, Floodplains, and Erosion-Prone Areas: Northern and central districts, including Nilphamari, Kurigram, and Rajshahi, characterized by river systems and floodplains, vulnerable to river floods, flash floods, and erosion.
5. Flash Flood Areas: Districts like Sunamganj, Netrokona, and Sylhet experience flash floods, cyclones, tornadoes, extreme heat waves, intense cold, riverbank erosion, lightning, and landslides.
6. Drought-Prone and Barind Areas: North-western districts, including Naogaon and Rajshahi, susceptible to droughts, tropical cyclones, tornadoes, extreme heat, cold, and lightning.
7. Northern and North-western Region: Districts like Panchagarh and Rangpur face varied hazards, including rainfall variability, floods, cyclones, droughts, extreme heat, cold, riverbank erosion, lightning, and landslides.
The government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is implementing adaptation measures and strategies to reduce the risks and enhance the resilience of these areas to climate change impacts.
Fact of the Week!!!
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