Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury said the government is continuing diplomatic efforts to resolve problems faced by Bangladeshi expatriates in different countries amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
“Bangladeshi missions concerned are working round-the-clock for the safety and welfare of expatriates,” he said.
Ariful, who is also Labour and Employment Minister, made the remarks while briefing journalists after a meeting with heads of government offices at the Circuit House in Sylhet. Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun chaired the meeting.
Regarding problems faced by Bangladeshi workers in different countries, including visa cancellations in Oman, the minister said the issues were linked to the broader impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He said efforts were underway to resolve the problems through diplomatic communication with the countries concerned.
At the same time, Bangladeshi missions abroad are monitoring affected expatriates, communicating with hospitals, arranging the repatriation of bodies of deceased Bangladeshis and providing necessary information to their families, he said.
Describing the reopening of the Malaysian labour market as a positive development, Ariful said various claims and discussions were circulating on social media and other platforms.
He said a roundtable involving media professionals and researchers would be organised within the next seven to 10 days to present verified information about the situation.
“Detailed information on the government’s measures, the current situation and future course of action will be presented there,” he said, urging people not to make statements or conduct campaigns without verifying information.
On security and law and order at tourist spots in Sylhet, the minister said the government was working to address longstanding problems, including drug trafficking and smuggling.
He said local people would be involved and made aware of the measures to help implement them.
Regarding the upcoming Durga Puja, Ariful said preparations were underway to ensure that the festival is celebrated across the country in a peaceful, safe and festive atmosphere.
“With people’s cooperation, we will ensure the celebration of Durga Puja in an atmosphere of harmony and peace,” he said.
