Siena:State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam expressed concerns on Monday about the potential impact of the Middle East conflict on remittances, noting that many Bangladeshi workers in the region have lost jobs. Some have returned home, while others are struggling to stay without employment. Saudi Arabia alone is home to over three million Bangladeshis, highlighting the potential scale of the issue.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Shama remains optimistic about overcoming these challenges by exploring new overseas employment markets. The Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are actively seeking new destinations for Bangladeshi workers. The government is also focused on creating job opportunities for those returning home.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has emphasized the importance of skilled migration and technical education to expand legal overseas employment. Shama hopes that improved skills and training will help Bangladeshi workers access new markets. She also mentioned the recent violent incidents in Saudi Arabia, which resulted in the deaths of two Bangladeshi nationals and hospitalizations for at least 24 others.
The government is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift end to the conflict to prevent further casualties. Regarding energy security, Shama noted that Bangladesh has been working towards energy self-sufficiency under Prime Minister Rahman's leadership. State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit is currently in Saudi Arabia to discuss energy cooperation.
Shama clarified that Bangladesh has not joined the Makkah Pact, so the question of sending troops to Saudi Arabia does not arise. She emphasized Bangladesh's solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the significance of Makkah and Madinah for Muslims worldwide.
The State Minister addressed the global turmoil, highlighting the need for a foreign policy that responds to emerging realities while protecting national interests. She praised the Prime Minister for engaging with parliament members on various national issues.
The seminar organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies focused on advancing a national interest-driven foreign policy. Discussions highlighted the need for a balanced and pragmatic approach to strengthen Bangladesh's role in the global arena.