Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today called on the Italian government to increase the legal hiring of Bangladeshi migrant workers. The appeal was made during a meeting with Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro, who visited Swapon at his ministry office.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Swapon highlighted Italy as a favored destination for Bangladeshi migrants. He noted that a substantial number of Bangladeshis are currently employed in Italy, contributing significantly to the economies of both nations. The Italian ambassador acknowledged the robust and long-standing diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Italy, while also addressing the issue of illegal and perilous migration routes from Bangladesh and other countries to Italy by sea.
During their discussions, both parties emphasized the importance of increasing manpower export from Bangladesh to Italy through legal channels. The Italian envoy affirmed that the legal migration process from Bangladesh to Italy is progressing successfully, with approximately 20,000 Bangladeshis legally migrating to Italy in the past year.
Swapon expressed his desire to diversify and strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He proposed collaboration with Italian institutions in the modernisation of mass communication, digital platforms, and the broadcasting sector. Furthermore, the minister showed keen interest in ‘knowledge exchange’ to leverage Italy’s advanced technological experience and capabilities.
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman and senior ministry officials.