Latest world news

Muhammad Yunus references India’s Seven Sisters, China ties in farewell speech

Muhammad Yunus, in his farewell speech as Bangladesh’s chief adviser, stressed sovereignty in foreign policy, referenced India’s Seven Sisters and highlighted China-backed projects amid domestic criticism.

Published

9 months ago

February 17, 2026

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Bangladesh’s outgoing Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus used his farewell address to underline a sovereignty-focused foreign policy, making pointed references to India’s northeastern region and deepening ties with China at a time of mounting criticism at home.

Facing sustained scrutiny over his interim administration’s handling of democratic transition and minority protection, Yunus projected an assertive tone in his closing speech. He maintained that Bangladesh had restored its “sovereignty, dignity, and independence” in foreign affairs and was “no longer guided by others’ directives.”

His remarks were widely viewed as directed at India, Bangladesh’s largest neighbour, particularly after he referred to regional economic integration involving Nepal, Bhutan and the “Seven Sisters” — a term commonly used for India’s northeastern states.

Regional integration and economic vision

Yunus spoke about leveraging Bangladesh’s maritime access and positioning the country as a gateway to broader regional trade.

“Our open seas are not just borders—they are gateways to the global economy. With Nepal, Bhutan, and the Seven Sisters, this region has immense economic potential. Economic zones, trade agreements, and duty-free market access can establish us as a global manufacturing hub,” he said.

By grouping India’s northeastern states alongside sovereign nations within a shared economic framework, Yunus appeared to outline a regional model centred on Bangladesh’s ports and connectivity infrastructure. The formulation is likely to draw attention in New Delhi, which has invested significantly in connectivity projects through Bangladesh to better integrate its northeast with the rest of India.

His remarks suggested that future access and opportunity for the landlocked northeastern region could be shaped by Bangladesh’s strategic and economic decisions.

China factor and strategic balance

Yunus also emphasised what he described as a policy of “strategic balance,” highlighting expanding engagement with China, Japan, the United States and Europe.

He cited progress on China-backed initiatives, including the Teesta River project and a 1,000-bed international hospital in Nilphamari. The Teesta project is located near India’s strategically sensitive Siliguri corridor.

“We have also deepened cooperation with China. Significant progress has been made on the Teesta River project and a 1,000-bed international hospital in Nilphamari,” Yunus said.

Rather than directly addressing regional sensitivities, his speech underscored Bangladesh’s intent to pursue partnerships based on what he described as national interest and mutual respect.

Military modernisation and domestic criticism

The outgoing chief adviser also referred to military modernisation, stating that Bangladesh had begun strengthening its armed forces to “counter any aggression.” Though not directed at any specific country, the phrasing added to the speech’s firm tone.

Notably, Yunus did not directly address criticism over his government’s handling of communal tensions and minority protection during his 18-month tenure. His interim administration came to power following widespread unrest after years of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule.

Rights groups and minority representatives had earlier raised concerns about attacks on Hindu communities in several districts, including incidents of vandalism and intimidation. Critics have argued that the interim government’s response was uneven and that it fell short of fully restoring democratic confidence.

As Yunus exits office, his farewell address presented a narrative focused on foreign policy recalibration and national assertion, while leaving domestic controversies largely unaddressed.

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Latest world news

India, Canada discuss trade pact to boost bilateral commerce

India and Canada discussed advancing negotiations on a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at expanding trade, investment and market access between the two countries.

Published

6 hours ago

November 12, 2026

APNLive Desk

India and Canada discussed advancing negotiations on a proposed trade agreement as the two countries seek to strengthen their economic and commercial ties.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met Canada’s Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu, who is leading a Canadian delegation to India. The discussions focused on advancing negotiations for the proposed India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The proposed pact is aimed at creating greater market access and opening up new opportunities for trade and investment between the two countries.

India-Canada CEPA talks

Both sides discussed the importance of a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement that can make use of the complementary strengths of the two economies.

The discussions also focused on deepening commercial engagement and creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Goyal said the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to taking the India-Canada economic partnership to a higher level, with CEPA serving as a catalyst for deeper commercial engagement.

India and Canada are working towards concluding the CEPA negotiations by the end of 2026.

India-Canada trade

The proposed CEPA is aimed at improving market access and creating opportunities across sectors while strengthening the broader economic relationship between India and Canada.

The agreement is expected to provide greater opportunities for businesses in both countries and support deeper trade and investment ties.

Latest world news

White House put on temporary lockdown after car crashes into signpost

The White House was temporarily placed under lockdown after a car crashed into a signpost near Lafayette Square in Washington, DC. The driver was detained after a confrontation with security personnel.

Published

3 days ago

November 9, 2026

APNLive Desk

The White House was placed under a temporary lockdown on Monday after a car crashed into a signpost at Lafayette Square near the presidential residence in Washington, DC.

The incident triggered a security response in the area, with the US Secret Service directing members of the White House press corps to move indoors and remain there temporarily.

Driver detained after confrontation with security personnel

The driver was detained following a confrontation with Secret Service officers and National Guard personnel, according to reports.

Video footage showed a silver sedan on the paved area at the northern end of Lafayette Square after striking a signpost. Smoke was also seen coming from the vehicle.

Authorities had not immediately disclosed the driver’s identity or established what led to the crash.

White House security restrictions imposed

The security response prompted temporary restrictions around the White House. The incident occurred at Lafayette Square, which is directly across Pennsylvania Avenue from the presidential complex.

At around 10 am local time, Secret Service personnel instructed White House journalists to move indoors while security personnel dealt with the incident.

The White House was under the security restriction while President Donald Trump was at the premises, according to reports.

Motive behind crash remains unclear

It was not immediately known whether the crash was accidental or deliberate. Authorities had also not immediately confirmed whether anyone was injured.

The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the driver’s identity and possible motive, remained under investigation.

Football news

Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to his 23-year career with Portugal after 234 appearances and 146 goals.

Published

7 days ago

November 5, 2026

APNLive Desk

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from international football, bringing his 23-year career with Portugal towards an end.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain said he would hand back the No. 7 shirt of the national team after the November international break. Ronaldo made the announcement in a video message shared on social media.

The decision marks the end of one of the most decorated international careers in men’s football. Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals, both records at international level.

Ronaldo’s Portugal career comes to an end

Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003 and went on to represent the country across more than two decades.

He helped Portugal win their first major international trophy at Euro 2016. He was also part of the teams that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

Ronaldo’s international career also included six World Cup appearances. His final World Cup came in 2026, when Portugal were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the last 16.

Ronaldo reflects on 23 years with Portugal

Announcing his decision, Ronaldo said it was not an easy choice and described his time representing Portugal as a privilege and responsibility.

He thanked his family, the Portuguese people, as well as the teammates, coaches and staff who were part of his international journey.

Ronaldo also said that Portugal would always remain a part of him.

Record-breaking international career

Ronaldo leaves the Portugal setup as the men’s all-time leading international goalscorer and the player with the most international appearances.

His 146 goals came across 234 appearances for Portugal. He also became one of only two players, alongside Lionel Messi, to feature at six World Cups.

His international career included major individual records as well as team honours, making his departure one of the biggest moments in modern international football.

What happens next

Ronaldo’s announcement comes after he said he would hand back Portugal’s No. 7 shirt following the November international break.

Portugal have Nations League fixtures during the November window, but Ronaldo’s announcement means his international career is now set to conclude after that break.