Thursday, 18 June 2026
The Dhaka News

Messi equals World Cup scoring record with hat-trick

Lionel Messi marked his record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup appearance with a stunning hat-trick on Tuesday, drawing level with Miroslav Klose as the tournament's joint all-time leading scorer and guiding defending champions Argentina to a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria.On a memorable night in front of a crowd of 69,045 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, the 38-year-old delivered a masterclass to reach 16 World Cup goals, matching the record held by German great Miroslav Klose.Messi, making his landmark 200th international appearance, also became the first player in history to feature in six World Cups. Having made his tournament debut as a teenager at Germany 2006, the Argentine captain once again underlined his enduring brilliance with the first World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career.His curling strike in the 17th minute moved him level with Gerd Müller and Kylian Mbappé on 14 World Cup goals before he surpassed both with his second of the night shortly after the hour mark. Messi then joined Klose on 16 goals with a clinical finish in the 76th minute, receiving a standing ovation from an adoring crowd when he was substituted four minutes later.Argentina, who defeated France on penalties following a dramatic 3-3 draw in the 2022 World Cup final in Doha, began their quest for consecutive titles in emphatic fashion with a dominant display.Elsewhere, France opened their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to become Les Bleus' all-time leading scorer with 58 goals in 99 appearances, surpassing Olivier Giroud."There are still people who criticise him, but he is an extraordinary player," France coach Didier Deschamps said. "Not everything came off for him, but he can change a game in an instant."Meanwhile, Erling Haaland enjoyed a dream World Cup debut, scoring twice as Norway cruised to a 4-1 win over Iraq in Group I. The Manchester City striker took his international tally to 57 goals in just 51 matches, while substitute Leo Ostigard added a third before an own goal deep into stoppage time completed the scoring.World Cup debutants Jordan were due to face Austria later on Tuesday in the final Group J fixture.
17 June 2026

Four Arrested with Marijuana in Chandina Special Drive

Chandina Thana Police conducted a special drive and arrested a total of four individuals, including a drug dealer, along with 2 kg of marijuana. They were apprehended during drives conducted in various areas of the upazila over the last 24 hours.According to police sources, a drug dealer named Habibur Rahman Hridoy (28) was arrested with two kilograms of marijuana during the operation. He is the son of the late Sirajul Islam from Naotala (East Para Rahman Member’s House) under No. 3 Madhaiya UP in Chandina Upazila. A case has been filed against him under the Narcotics Control Act, and he has been forwarded to the learned court.In separate drives, two youths were arrested and sentenced for drug consumption. Among them, Md. Sakib (20), son of Abu Taher from Bollarchar area of Chandina, was sentenced to 15 days of imprisonment and a fine of 100 Taka. Shahjalal (24), son of Md. Dulal from the same area, was sentenced to 10 days of imprisonment and a fine of 100 Taka. Following the sentencing, they were sent to the Cumilla Central Jail.Additionally, police arrested another accused, Akhter Hossain (30), under a CR warrant. He is the son of Selim Miah from Verunia (Mohichail) area of the upazila. Thana police confirmed that he has also been forwarded to the learned court following his arrest.
17 June 2026

Speaker Seeks US Support to Recover Laundered Funds from Abroad

Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, has sought cooperation from the United States in recovering funds allegedly laundered abroad during the tenure of the previous government. He also welcomed a proposal from the International Republican Institute (IRI) to support the capacity building of newly elected lawmakers.The issues were discussed during a courtesy meeting between the Speaker and IRI Bangladesh Resident Program Director John Fluharty at the Speaker’s office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Tuesday.During the meeting, Fluharty proposed IRI’s assistance in strengthening the skills and institutional capacity of members of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad through training programs, workshops, and experience-sharing initiatives. He also briefed the Speaker on various activities being carried out by the US-based organization to promote democratic governance and political stability in Bangladesh.Referring to allegations that nearly Tk 28 lakh crore was siphoned abroad during the rule of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Speaker sought US support in tracing and repatriating the funds.Hafiz Uddin Ahmad also highlighted what he described as years of political repression under the previous administration. He alleged that enforced disappearances, killings, suppression of dissent, and the operation of secret detention facilities known as “Ayna Ghar” had severely curtailed freedom of expression in the country.The Speaker said the current government has been conducting state affairs through consultation with opposition parties following the parliamentary election held on February 12, 2026. He described the poll as the most widely accepted election in Bangladesh’s history and one that received international recognition.Noting that newly elected lawmakers are gradually becoming familiar with parliamentary procedures, he said the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) had already organized orientation programs to provide practical training on the duties and responsibilities of Members of Parliament.According to the Speaker, the primary objectives of the present government are to ensure democratic continuity, uphold the highest respect for freedom of expression for all citizens, including opposition voices, and build a corruption-free Bangladesh.Expressing optimism, he said the government and opposition parties would reach a consensus on implementing the July Charter through dialogue and consultation.He also praised the opposition’s constructive role in addressing national challenges, including the ongoing energy crisis, describing such cooperation as encouraging for the country’s democratic development. Jatiya Sangsad Secretary Barrister Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan and IRI Consultant Amitabh Ghosh were also present at the meeting.
16 June 2026
Urgent Guidelines Issued for HSC Examinations

Urgent Guidelines Issued for HSC Examinations

The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations for 2026 are set to begin on July 2. Ahead of the examinations, the Dhaka Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education has issued guidelines regarding entry to examination centres, the use of calculators and wristwatches, and the operation of a control room for emergency communication.The directives were announced in three separate notices published on the board's website on Wednesday (June 17), signed by Controller of Examinations Professor Jesmin Taslima Banu.In one notice, the board instructed authorities to open the gates of examination centres at 8:30 am to ease traffic congestion and reduce inconvenience for candidates. It said only examinees should be allowed to enter the centre premises from 8:30 am, while the previously issued instructions regarding entry into examination halls will remain in force.Another notice outlined the approved scientific calculators and guidelines on wristwatch use. According to the board, candidates may use regular calculators as well as the following eight models of non-programmable scientific calculators: FX-82MS, FX-100MS, FX-570MS, FX-991MS, FX-991EX, FX-991ES, FX-991ES Plus, and FX-991CW.Candidates will also be allowed to wear analogue (non-programmable) wristwatches inside examination centres, the notice said.In a separate notice, the board announced the opening of a control room for the duration of the HSC and equivalent examinations. It requested candidates and stakeholders to contact the board in case of any problems, information exchange, or emergencies.The board can be reached via telephone at 02-223369815 or on mobile numbers 01550411203, 01714994073, and 01756103152. Queries may also be sent via email to [controller@dhakaeducationboard.gov.bd](mailto:controller@dhakaeducationboard.gov.bd).
14 hrs ago
National

National

Speaker Seeks US Support to Recover Laundered Funds from Abroad

Speaker Seeks US Support to Recover Laundered Funds from Abroad

Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, has sought cooperation from the United States in recovering funds allegedly laundered abroad during the tenure of the previous government. He also welcomed a proposal from the International Republican Institute (IRI) to support the capacity building of newly elected lawmakers.The issues were discussed during a courtesy meeting between the Speaker and IRI Bangladesh Resident Program Director John Fluharty at the Speaker’s office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Tuesday.During the meeting, Fluharty proposed IRI’s assistance in strengthening the skills and institutional capacity of members of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad through training programs, workshops, and experience-sharing initiatives. He also briefed the Speaker on various activities being carried out by the US-based organization to promote democratic governance and political stability in Bangladesh.Referring to allegations that nearly Tk 28 lakh crore was siphoned abroad during the rule of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Speaker sought US support in tracing and repatriating the funds.Hafiz Uddin Ahmad also highlighted what he described as years of political repression under the previous administration. He alleged that enforced disappearances, killings, suppression of dissent, and the operation of secret detention facilities known as “Ayna Ghar” had severely curtailed freedom of expression in the country.The Speaker said the current government has been conducting state affairs through consultation with opposition parties following the parliamentary election held on February 12, 2026. He described the poll as the most widely accepted election in Bangladesh’s history and one that received international recognition.Noting that newly elected lawmakers are gradually becoming familiar with parliamentary procedures, he said the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) had already organized orientation programs to provide practical training on the duties and responsibilities of Members of Parliament.According to the Speaker, the primary objectives of the present government are to ensure democratic continuity, uphold the highest respect for freedom of expression for all citizens, including opposition voices, and build a corruption-free Bangladesh.Expressing optimism, he said the government and opposition parties would reach a consensus on implementing the July Charter through dialogue and consultation.He also praised the opposition’s constructive role in addressing national challenges, including the ongoing energy crisis, describing such cooperation as encouraging for the country’s democratic development. Jatiya Sangsad Secretary Barrister Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan and IRI Consultant Amitabh Ghosh were also present at the meeting.
16 June 2026
International

International

Bangladesh, Türkiye eye strategic partnership, trade expansion

Bangladesh, Türkiye eye strategic partnership, trade expansion

Bangladesh and Türkiye today agreed to deepen strategic cooperation, expand trade and investment ties and explore a free trade arrangement as the two countries seek to elevate their longstanding bilateral relationship to a new strategic level.The commitments were made during a bilateral meeting between Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan at a city hotel."We emphasized that the visit comes at a significant moment of Bangladesh- Türkiye relations and demonstrates the shared commitment of both countries to deepening cooperation and elevating the bilateral partnership to new heights at a strategic level," Dr Rahman said at a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart here today.Welcoming the visiting Turkish foreign minister, Dr Rahman said the discussions were held in a spirit of friendship, mutual respect and understanding, reflecting the longstanding partnership between the two countries.Referring to the government's foreign policy priorities, Dr Khalilur Rahman said the administration led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman remains committed to safeguarding Bangladesh's sovereignty, national interests and the welfare of its people while pursuing constructive relations with friendly nations."Foreign policy of our government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is guided by the philosophy of 'Bangladesh Before All'. This principle reflects our resolute commitment to safeguarding Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty, national interests and the welfare of our people. At the same time, it reflects our belief that beyond our borders we have friends and partners, not masters," he said.The two sides agreed that the visit marks an important milestone in bilateral relations and opens new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, development and regional affairs, while a major focus of the talks was economic cooperation and trade expansion.Dr Rahman said Bangladesh and Türkiye discussed the possibility of signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to further boost bilateral trade and investment.Bilateral trade has been growing steadily and both countries are now working to increase trade volume to US$2 billion from the current level of around US$1.3 billion, he noted.The foreign minister invited Turkish investors to take advantage of Bangladesh's investment-friendly environment and opportunities available in the country's economic zones and special economic zones.He proposed the establishment of a dedicated Turkish Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bangladesh and sought expanded engagement by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) in investment, trade and industrial partnerships.According to Dr Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh has identified several promising sectors for Turkish investment, including textiles and apparel, defence manufacturing, shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, renewable energy, information and communication technology (ICT), and smart technologies.He also proposed the establishment of an international-standard hospital and nursing institute in Dhaka with Turkish cooperation and requested increased scholarship opportunities for Bangladeshi students pursuing higher education in Türkiye.Noting that around 3,000 Bangladeshis currently reside in Türkiye, most of them students, he called for easier visa procedures to facilitate tourism, education, cultural exchanges, business interactions and investment-related travel.On the Rohingya issue, the foreign minister reiterated Bangladesh's position that the safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar with full citizenship rights remains the only viable solution to the crisis.He thanked Türkiye for its continued humanitarian assistance and diplomatic support for the Rohingya people and said the visiting Turkish delegation would visit Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar later in the day to gain first-hand knowledge of the situation.Dr Khalilur Rahman expressed confidence that Hakan Fidan's visit would further deepen cooperation, collaboration and mutual understanding between the two countries and help unlock new opportunities for partnership across multiple sectors.He expressed Bangladesh's appreciation to Türkiye for sending election observers during the parliamentary election in February this year and for dispatching Deputy Foreign Minister Berris Ekinci to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the new government.The foreign minister also thanked the Turkish government and Hakan Fidan personally for supporting Bangladesh's successful candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).Speaking at the same press conference, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh and described the South Asian nation as an important partner in the region.Fidan said there is significant potential for cooperation in a number of sectors, particularly in defence industries, trade, investment and technology.Describing Bangladesh and Türkiye as strong voices of the Global South, he said the two sides exchanged views on a wide range of international and regional issues and found broad convergence on many of them.Fidan said Türkiye would continue to work closely with Bangladesh on issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed Ankara's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in line with the shared aspirations of the two friendly nations.On the Rohingya crisis, the Turkish foreign minister praised Bangladesh for sheltering more than one million forcibly displaced Rohingyas on humanitarian grounds and reiterated Ankara's continued support for their safe, voluntary and dignified return to Myanmar."Bangladesh has undertaken a historic humanitarian responsibility. We highly appreciate its efforts and will continue our support for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of the Rohingya people," he said.Fidan said Türkiye would continue intensive diplomatic efforts to keep the Rohingya issue on the international agenda and work with the international community to achieve a lasting solution to the crisis.The Turkish foreign minister also expressed concern over ongoing conflicts and tensions in different parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East.Referring to the situation in Gaza, he accused Israel of violating ceasefire efforts and said the international community must take effective measures to stop what he described as continuing atrocities against the Palestinian people.He said Türkiye remains deeply concerned about the escalation of regional conflicts and stressed the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving disputes.Regarding the ongoing talks between Iran and the United States, Fidan expressed hope that the negotiations would contribute to regional peace and stability.He also underscored the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation through strategic waterways and appreciated Pakistan's role in mediation efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting regional stability.State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat were also present at the meeting.Fidan, who arrived in Dhaka on Thursday night on a two-day official visit, is also scheduled to call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and visit Rohingya camps in Cox's Bazar, underscoring Türkiye's continued support for displaced Rohingyas and humanitarian efforts in Bangladesh.
5 June 2026
Campus

Campus

ISU Hosts Seminar on Higher Education and Career Counseling in Mymensingh

ISU Hosts Seminar on Higher Education and Career Counseling in Mymensingh

International Standard University (ISU) organized a comprehensive "Seminar on Higher Education and Career Counselling" on Saturday morning. The event took place at a restaurant and brought together local educators, students, and parents to discuss future academic pathways.Nearly 100 participants attended the session. The audience included teachers representing various colleges, polytechnic institutes, madrasas, and coaching centers across the Mymensingh area, alongside a strong turnout of prospective students and their guardians.A delegation from ISU traveled to Mymensingh to lead the discussion and interact directly with the attendees. The university was represented by Registrar Mohammad Faizullah Kawshik, Director of Admission and Information Md. Abdul Goffar, Assistant Director of Admission and Information Md. Towhiddjjaman, Head of the Law Department Associate Professor Rashed Ahmed, and Textile Engineering Lecturer Raiyan Khair Fuad.During the program, the ISU team highlighted the university's academic environment, facilities, and the value of proper career planning. A significant portion of the event was dedicated to an open dialogue. The representatives listened to the thoughts and concerns of the teachers and parents, followed by an interactive question and answer session where the ISU team addressed specific queries regarding admissions and higher education opportunities.
13 June 2026
Web Story

Web Story

Election

Election

Urgent Guidelines Issued for HSC Examinations

Urgent Guidelines Issued for HSC Examinations

The Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations for 2026 are set to begin on July 2. Ahead of the examinations, the Dhaka Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education has issued guidelines regarding entry to examination centres, the use of calculators and wristwatches, and the operation of a control room for emergency communication.The directives were announced in three separate notices published on the board's website on Wednesday (June 17), signed by Controller of Examinations Professor Jesmin Taslima Banu.In one notice, the board instructed authorities to open the gates of examination centres at 8:30 am to ease traffic congestion and reduce inconvenience for candidates. It said only examinees should be allowed to enter the centre premises from 8:30 am, while the previously issued instructions regarding entry into examination halls will remain in force.Another notice outlined the approved scientific calculators and guidelines on wristwatch use. According to the board, candidates may use regular calculators as well as the following eight models of non-programmable scientific calculators: FX-82MS, FX-100MS, FX-570MS, FX-991MS, FX-991EX, FX-991ES, FX-991ES Plus, and FX-991CW.Candidates will also be allowed to wear analogue (non-programmable) wristwatches inside examination centres, the notice said.In a separate notice, the board announced the opening of a control room for the duration of the HSC and equivalent examinations. It requested candidates and stakeholders to contact the board in case of any problems, information exchange, or emergencies.The board can be reached via telephone at 02-223369815 or on mobile numbers 01550411203, 01714994073, and 01756103152. Queries may also be sent via email to [controller@dhakaeducationboard.gov.bd](mailto:controller@dhakaeducationboard.gov.bd).
25 November 2025
Voting begins in 13th National Elections 2026

Voting begins in 13th National Elections 2026

25 November 2025
Cricket

Cricket

Pakistan Sets Three Conditions for Playing India, Including Compensation for Bangladesh

Pakistan Sets Three Conditions for Playing India, Including Compensation for Bangladesh

A new standoff has emerged in international cricket as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has presented three key demands to the International Cricket Council (ICC) in an effort to resolve the ongoing disagreement over Bangladesh’s exclusion from the T20 World Cup.Earlier, Bangladesh had requested the ICC to change match venues after India declined to play in the tournament. In response, the ICC removed Bangladesh from the competition, a decision that Pakistan strongly supported and publicly backed Bangladesh.After Bangladesh was excluded, the PCB announced its intention to boycott the match against India in protest, creating a deadlock with the global governing body of cricket. Recent developments, however, suggest there may be a way forward.According to NDTV sources, PCB officials met with ICC representatives in Lahore and submitted three major demands aimed at breaking the impasse. The demands are:1. Enhanced compensation for Bangladesh,2. Assurance of participation fees for Bangladesh despite being removed from the World Cup,3. Granting Bangladesh the right to host future ICC events.Despite warnings from the ICC about possible consequences, Pakistan remained firm in its decision to boycott the India match. Some PCB officials are reportedly in favor of playing, but PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has maintained his previous position.Before finalizing the decision, Naqvi is scheduled to meet with Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, today (Monday). How the situation will develop and whether the three demands lead to a resolution remains a key focus for the cricketing world.TDN/
9 February 2026
Nationwide

Nationwide

June Weather Outlook: More Heat, Less Rain in Bangladesh

June Weather Outlook: More Heat, Less Rain in Bangladesh

The country is likely to experience slightly below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures in June, according to the Long Range Forecasting Expert Committee of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).Officials said the southwest monsoon is expected to advance across the country in the first half of the month, but overall rainfall is likely to remain slightly below seasonal averages.The forecast was disclosed following a regular meeting of the expert committee held at the Storm Warning Centre, Dhaka on Monday.BMD Director (acting) and committee chairman Mohammad Mominul Islam said both daytime and night time temperatures are expected to remain higher than normal in the current month  June. He also warned that two to three mild to moderate heat waves may affect different parts of the country.According to the forecast, mild heat waves may range between 36°C and 37.9°C, while moderate heat waves could reach 38°C to 39.9°C.The committee also predicted five to seven days of light to moderate thunderstorm may be active  during the month. In addition, one to two low-pressure systems may form over the Bay of Bengal, one of which could intensify into a monsoon depression.Region-wise rainfall is expected to vary. Chattogram and Sylhet divisions may receive 600–630 mm of rainfall, Barishal 420–470 mm, Rangpur 400–420 mm, Dhaka 330–350 mm, Khulna 280–300 mm, and Rajshahi 270–290 mm.Meteorologist Md. Shahinul Islam of the Storm Warning Centre told BSS that scattered rainfall has already begun in some areas but is not yet strong enough to significantly ease the ongoing heat wave.He said rainfall in parts of Bogura, Rajshahi, Netrakona and Rangpur may bring slight local relief, but the heat wave may continue for another two to three days.He added that Dhaka has yet to receive significant rainfall, and hot and humid conditions continue to prevail. The monsoon is currently near the Myanmar coast and is expected to enter Bangladesh within the next three to four days.Once the monsoon arrives, rainfall is likely to increase first in the southern region, followed by central and northern areas. Light rain may occur in Dhaka within the next day, although humidity is expected to persist.According to BMD data, Bangladesh recorded an average rainfall of 289 mm in May, which is 7.4 percent above normal. While Mymensingh, Sylhet, Dhaka, Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions received above-normal rainfall, Chattogram, Khulna and Barishal experienced below-normal rainfall.The highest rainfall in May was recorded in Dinajpur, where 144 mm of rainfall was recorded in a single day on May 13. The month also saw several spells of mild heat waves with the highest temperature reaching 38.0°C in Chuadanga on May 18, while the lowest was 18.4°C in Sylhet on May 3.Hydrological forecasts suggest river conditions are likely to remain normal, though water levels may rise temporarily in some areas due to heavy rainfall in the northern, north-eastern and south-eastern regions.Meanwhile, meteorologist Mashiur Rahman of the Bangladesh Weather Observation Team said the monsoon may become more active around June 10, with rainfall increasing significantly from June 11–12.He said pre-monsoon rainfall will continue until then, with intermittent breaks even after monsoon onset. However, the risk of extremely heavy rainfall remains low in June.He further noted that the ongoing heat wave may persist until around June 10, although scattered rainfall from June 5 could bring partial relief. However, humid conditions may return after short spells of rain.He added that while there is no major flood risk in early June, localized water logging or short-term flooding may occur in low-lying northern areas in the latter half of the month. However, the possibility of a major flood remains low.
25 November 2025