Dubai: Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today called for strengthening mutual cooperation in the field of labour migration. He emphasized the importance of joint commitment to ethical recruitment, dignified work, and the protection of migrant workers’ human dignity during a ministerial-level meeting. This meeting took place at the opening session of the second day of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue-2026 in Dubai.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Asif Nazrul described the Abu Dhabi Dialogue as a trusted and effective platform for promoting safe, orderly, and ethical labour migration. Later in the day, he met with Dr Abdulrahman Abdulmannan Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During the meeting, Dr Nazrul highlighted that Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest labour-sending countries. He noted that Bangladeshi expatriates play a significant role in the development of both Bangladesh and their host countries by sending remittances.
However, Dr Nazrul expressed concern over the exploitation and rights violations faced by some workers. He emphasized that these issues could be addressed through the joint responsibility of both sending and receiving countries. He also outlined recent initiatives by the Bangladesh government, including the launch of a complete digital overseas employment portal, enhancement of pre-departure assistance, and the upgrading of skills training to international standards.
In his discussions with the UAE’s Minister of Human Resources, Dr Nazrul expressed gratitude to the UAE government for granting amnesty to 212 convicted Bangladeshi expatriates. They also discussed visa facilitation for Bangladeshis, with Dr Nazrul noting that the UAE’s visa restriction policy has impacted the flow of workers from Bangladesh. He requested the cooperation of the UAE Human Resources Minister to resolve visa-related issues for Bangladeshis.
Dr Asif Nazrul also held meetings with Pakistani Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Philippine Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac. These discussions focused on exchanging experiences in labour migration management, skill development, ethical recruitment, and migrant welfare, as well as strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The eighth ministerial meeting of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue commenced yesterday at the Intercontinental Dubai Festival City in Dubai, with representatives from 17 member countries, senior officials, and representatives of international organizations in attendance.