Dhaka: Home Adviser Lieutenant General Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd.) today urged Finland to establish an embassy in Bangladesh. The absence of a Finnish embassy in Dhaka has complicated and prolonged the visa process for Bangladeshi nationals, as Finland currently handles Bangladesh-related activities through its New Delhi embassy. Chowdhury emphasized that a Finnish embassy in Dhaka would simplify visa procedures and enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the call was made during a courtesy meeting with Finland’s Under Secretary of State (International Trade), Jarno Syrjala, at the Secretariat office. Syrjala agreed with the adviser’s suggestion and promised to escalate the proposal to the Finnish government’s highest levels.
The meeting included discussions on various issues of mutual interest, such as law and order, security, the Rohingya crisis, trade, investment, and manpower export. Chowdhury highlighted the strong relations between Bangladesh and Finland, suggesting that Finland could support Bangladesh’s ongoing reform processes.
Chowdhury also proposed that Finland could increase the import of skilled and educated manpower from Bangladesh. Syrjala responded positively, noting that approximately 6,000 Bangladeshis reside in Finland, with many contributing significantly to the country’s socio-economic development.
The Rohingya refugee situation was another key topic. Chowdhury reiterated that the refugees are citizens of Myanmar and called for international assistance, including from Finland, to facilitate their repatriation. Additionally, Chowdhury encouraged Finland to increase its imports of ready-made garments from Bangladesh and to make larger investments in the country.