Photo: Collected
The government is continuing diplomatic efforts to resolve the problems that expatriate Bangladeshis are facing in various countries due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment and Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury has said.
He said, ‘The Bangladeshi missions concerned are working round the clock for the safety and welfare of expatriates.’
He said this at a briefing for journalists after a views-exchange meeting with heads of government offices at Sylhet Circuit House on Wednesday.
On the problems of workers in various countries, including the cancellation of visas of Bangladeshi workers in Oman, the minister said the impact of the overall conflict in the Middle East is behind these situations. Efforts are under way to find a solution through diplomatic contact with the countries concerned. Besides, Bangladeshi missions in various countries are working to inquire after affected expatriates, contact hospitals, bring the bodies of the dead back home and deliver necessary information to families.
Describing the opening of Malaysia’s labour market as positive, he said various information and discussions about it are circulating on different platforms including social media. To present the real picture, a roundtable will be held within the next one week to 10 days with media workers and people who do research and discussion on this subject. The government’s steps, the current situation and future course of action will be presented there in detail. He urged that no statement or campaign be made without verifying information.
On the security and law and order of Sylhet’s tourist spots, the minister said the government is working to stop long-standing irregularities including drugs and smuggling. The people will be involved and made aware in implementing these activities.
Calling for comparing present and past statistics in assessing the law and order situation, he said necessary measures are being taken to protect the environment and beauty of the tourist spots alongside ensuring public safety.
He further said various works have already begun for the infrastructure development of the tourist spots. However, before any large project, the set process, including feasibility study and fund allocation, has to be followed. These development works will become visible step by step. Mentioning that more time is needed for this, he said details on the visible progress of development work can be given after December.
On the upcoming Durga Puja, the minister said preparations are being taken to celebrate Durga Puja across the country, including three upazilas of Sylhet, in a peaceful, safe and festive atmosphere as in the past. The celebration of the puja maintaining harmony will be ensured with the cooperation of the people.
Presided over by Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun, the meeting was attended by Labour and Employment Ministry Joint Secretary Numeri Zaman, Superintendent of Police Dr Chowdhury Jaber Sadek and officials of various government offices.
