Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam today informed Parliament that Bangladesh is currently not experiencing any energy crisis. She emphasized that the government is implementing comprehensive strategies to ensure an uninterrupted energy supply while also safeguarding Bangladeshi citizens abroad amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shama Obaed addressed a supplementary question from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Mir Ahmad Binquasem (Dhaka-14) in the Jatiya Sangsad, assuring that the government has initiated actions to secure energy supply from various international sources under the Prime Minister’s guidance. This approach aims to prevent any disruptions in fuel and energy availability within Bangladesh.
Presided over by Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal, Shama Obaed highlighted the government’s efforts to diversify energy import sources beyond the Middle East. She stated that alternative supply channels are being explored to maintain a stable fuel supply in the country. “There is no energy crisis in Bangladesh at the moment,” she affirmed to the House, underscoring the Prime Minister’s proactive engagement with relevant authorities to ensure a stable energy sector.
The state minister reiterated that the government’s primary focus is on the safety and security of Bangladeshi citizens residing abroad, especially in Middle Eastern countries where many Bangladeshis are employed amid the conflict. She informed Parliament that Bangladesh missions in the region are vigilantly monitoring the situation and are operational around the clock to guarantee the safety of expatriates.
Citing recent developments, Shama Obaed mentioned that several Bangladeshi nationals have been affected, with some losing their lives, while others have been rescued and safely returned to the country. She noted, “A total of 186 Bangladeshis were repatriated safely from Tehran, Iran, through a chartered flight with government support.”
Furthermore, she stated that the government continues to undertake diplomatic efforts and coordination through Bangladesh missions abroad to respond to the evolving situation and provide essential assistance to citizens in affected areas. The state minister stressed the importance of ongoing communication with relevant countries and international partners to ensure both energy security and the safety of Bangladeshi nationals.
“Our top priority is to ensure the safety of Bangladeshis wherever they are and maintain an uninterrupted energy supply in the country through diversified sources,” she added. Shama Obaed concluded that the government is carefully observing the global situation and taking proactive measures to address any emerging challenges concerning energy supply and the welfare of expatriates.