Dhaka: LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, MP, today emphasized the need for enhanced Bangladesh-Italy cooperation, focusing on economic collaboration, employment opportunities, skilled human resource development, illegal migration prevention, language education, and urban management.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the call for strengthened ties was made during a meeting with Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro at the minister’s office in the Secretariat. The meeting was attended by State Minister Mir Shahe Alam, MP, as noted in a ministry press release. The minister highlighted the historical friendship and mutual cooperation between the two nations, urging the exploration of new cooperation avenues.
Dr. Moyeen Khan pointed out the potential for joint efforts to boost economic relations and create employment through the development of skilled human resources. The discussion also covered the importance of public awareness in preventing illegal migration, with the minister affirming the roles of various ministries and agencies in this regard.
The minister underscored the significance of learning a third language to increase the exportability of skilled manpower and sought Italy’s assistance in implementing Italian language education programs in Bangladesh. The dialogue also included discussions on providing language training for skilled workers seeking employment in Italy and developing trainers within Bangladesh.
Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro acknowledged the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives’ contribution to Bangladesh’s developmental activities and expressed Italy’s interest in expanding bilateral cooperation.
State Minister Mir Shahe Alam briefed journalists post-meeting, indicating that approximately 250,000 Bangladeshis reside in Italy. He mentioned discussions on securing Italy’s support for legal manpower export through skills enhancement and Italian language education, alongside initiatives to curb illegal migration by involving local administrations and public representatives.
The state minister also touched on potential collaborations between Milan and Khulna City Corporation regarding food security and waste prevention. Additionally, discussions were held on training Bangladeshi architects, experience exchanges, and expanding trade, remittances, and employment.
The meeting concluded with a focus on further deepening Bangladesh-Italy economic and development cooperation and strengthening people-to-people connections. Present at the meeting were Local Government Division Secretary Md. Shahidul Hassan, Rural Development and Cooperatives Division Secretary Dr. Rafiqul I Mohamed, and senior ministry officials.