Foreign Ministry prioritises expat safety, trade expansion amid Middle East tensions
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set a series of key priorities including ensuring energy security, safeguarding Bangladeshi expatriates and expanding the trade and investment opportunities amid global tensions in the wake of the Israel-Iran conflict.
A major focus will be to assist the government in facing the challenges arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict including ensuring an adequate supply of fuel oil.
The ministry will also prioritise support for Bangladeshi expatriates in the Gulf region, working closely with host countries to minimise any adverse impact of the conflict on their employment.
Ensuring access for Bangladeshi products to global markets and exploring new export destinations will remain another key priority,according to an official document.
The ministry will support the effective implementation of existing trade agreements and consider new ones with major partners including the European Union and South Korea.
It will also work in coordination with relevant government agencies including Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA)to accelerate foreign investment in priority sectors.
Expanding overseas employment opportunities will be another focus area. The ministry plans to explore new labour markets, enhance skills and training, reduce migration costs, and pursue a comprehensive migration policy to curb unethical practices in manpower export.
A Foreign Ministry official told UNB that manpower export and the welfare of Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) are central to the country’s current foreign policy.
“However, our labour market is heavily dependent on the Middle East. The safety of our remittance earners has become a major concern amid the ongoing conflict. Ensuring their security is a top priority,” the official said.
He added that diplomatic efforts are being strengthened to diversify labour markets.
“In addition to the Middle East, initiatives are underway to send skilled workers to emerging markets in Europe, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and Eastern Europe,” he said.
Bangladesh missions abroad have also been instructed to strengthen emergency services to ensure the safety and rights of expatriates.
According to the official document, economic diplomacy remains the government’s top priority. Efforts are ongoing to expand trade, investment, technology and energy cooperation with key partners such as Japan, China, South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom and European countries.
The Foreign Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Commerce, BIDA and BEZA to identify new opportunities and expand market access for Bangladeshi products.
Potential markets include the Middle East—particularly Gulf countries as well as Latin America and Africa. UNB News
There is significant scope to boost exports of ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, ceramics and jute products, alongside cooperation in agriculture, energy and sports.
The official also highlighted the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in projecting Bangladesh globally as an emerging economy with a tolerant society and a dynamic young population.
“Embassies have been instructed to actively promote Bangladesh’s positive image. We are also considering greater engagement with expatriates to leverage their experience, networks and success to boost investment and trade,” he added.
Two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East.
Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on March 2 said they will do everything for the Bangladeshis to ensure their welfare and safety of its citizens amid current situation in the Middle East.
“They are our top most priority,” said the Adviser, adding that the government is fully supportive of their welfare and protection.
