Dhaka: Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today emphasized the significant role expatriates play in driving the national economy. He remarked that the contributions and sacrifices of expatriates are unmatched, particularly in the context of the July Uprising. The government remains committed to ensuring their welfare.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Adviser was speaking at an event focused on optimizing the use of the Wage Earners Welfare Board’s small entrepreneur investment or remittance, held at Probashi Kallyan Bhaban. During his address as the chief guest, Dr Asif Nazrul outlined several initiatives implemented by the interim government to support expatriates.
One key measure introduced by the government is granting voting rights to expatriates, enabling them to participate in elections while residing abroad. Additionally, multivisa arrangements have been established for Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. In a historic move, Bangladesh has signed a formal agreement with Saudi Arabia for the employment of workers, marking a significant milestone in the 50-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
The agreement is expected to boost the recruitment of skilled workers across various professions from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia, ensuring the protection of rights and interests for both workers and employers. Dr Asif Nazrul also highlighted the digitization of the worker deployment system and initiatives aimed at sending workers based on their skills. Furthermore, Bangladeshi female workers can now register in Jordan without incurring fees or facing restrictions.
In a bid to further support expatriates, the government has increased the allowance for duty-free mobile phones brought into the country from one to two. Expatriate lounges have been established at airports, and plans are underway to set up a hospital partially owned by expatriates. Dr Asif Nazrul expressed optimism that these efforts will lead to significant progress in expatriate welfare.
The event was presided over by Dr Neyamat Ullah Bhuiyan, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment. Other notable speakers included Barrister Md. Golam Sarwar Bhuiyan, Director General of the Wage Earners Welfare Board, and Dr Valantine Achancho, IFAD’s Country Director for Bangladesh.