United News of Bangladesh

India on Wednesday (November 26) said it has received a request from Bangladesh for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stating that the request is being examined. “Yes, we have received the request and this request is being examined,” Indian Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters while responding to a question at a regular briefing in New Delhi. He said they, as part of ongoing judicial and internal legal processes, remain committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in ‘peace, democracy, inclusion and stability’ in that country. Read more: ICT releases full verdict on Hasina, Kamal’s death penalty The MEA spokesperson reiterated that they will always engage ‘constructively’ with all stakeholders to that end. Earlier, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said Bangladesh expects an answer from India on its latest request for extradition of convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “I do not expect that they will answer within a week of Dhaka’s request but we expect we will get an answer,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday when a journalist wanted to know about the update on Hasina’s extradition request. When pressed further, Hossain said he is not saying that Dhaka is not going to get an answer but the fact is that they are not expecting a reply within seven days. Bangladesh wrote to India afresh seeking Hasina’s extradition following the recent verdict by the International Crimes Tribunal-1 against her. Adviser Hossain said the diplomatic note (note verbale) was sent to the Ministry of External Affairs, India through Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. He also acknowledged that Bangladesh did not receive a reply from India on its first request for extradition last year. On November 17, the ICT sentenced Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in a case filed over crimes against humanity committed during last year’s July-August mass uprising. Former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who testified as a state witness in the case, was sentenced to five years in prison. Read more: Dhaka expects answer from Delhi on Hasina's extradition: Foreign Adviser The Foreign Affairs Adviser on Sunday (November 23) disclosed the fresh diplomatic communication with New Delhi A diplomatic source in New Delhi told UNB that the diplomatic note (note verbale) was sent to New Delhi soon after National Security Adviser (NSA) and High Representative for the Rohingya Issue Dr Khalilur Rahman’s returns home from New Delhi. Dr Rahman attended the 7th meeting of the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in New Delhi on November 20 at the invitation of Indian NSA Ajit Doval. After the verdict, Bangladesh urged the government of India to immediately hand over former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, both convicted already, to its authorities. This is also an obligation for India under the existing extradition treaty between the two countries, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement. "It would be a grave act of unfriendly conduct and a travesty of justice for any other country to grant shelter to these individuals convicted of crimes against humanity," it said. Read more: India’s Lt Gen Manish Luthra highlights Bangladesh-India friendship

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday dismissed the notion that choosing Boeing over Airbus might shape EU-Bangladesh relations and GSP-related discussions, stressing Bangladesh’s ties with Europe would not be affected by a commercial deal. “I do not believe our overall relations will be affected by a commercial deal,” he told reporters while responding to a question at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Earlier, German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rüdiger Lotz at ‘DCAB Talk’ said Bangladesh’s withdrawal from its commitment to purchase Airbus aircraft would have an impact on its trade relations with Europe. He said Bangladesh’s decision regarding the purchase of Airbus aircraft from France could influence the overall climate of bilateral and European economic relations. A decision on aircraft purchase could have an impact, not necessarily severe consequences, but certainly an effect on the overall atmosphere of bilateral economic relations, the Ambassador said. When his attention was drawn, Foreign Affairs Adviser Hossain said Ambassadors naturally promote the commercial interests of their own countries, but Bangladesh would make procurement decisions strictly on expert evaluation and national requirements. “Any ambassador will naturally try to promote his country’s products. It is normal and it is part of his responsibility. He has fulfilled his responsibility,” Hossain said. He said Bangladesh would not take decisions based on external pressure or commentary. “What matters for us is what our experts determine based on Bangladesh’s requirements and fleet size. We will not go outside expert opinion, nor will we make decisions based on what others say.” The German Ambassador said his country is the most important business partner for Bangladesh. “And we have the feeling that we have been treated this way in the bilateral relations and it should continue that way. I think we need reliability in business contexts.” He said they simply think now Airbus is delivering an excellent product. “I'm not the representative of the airline industry but I think it is an excellent choice in an increasing air aviation market that you have here.” Referring to aircraft purchase, the Ambassador said of course decisions that are linked to the bilateral economic relations also depend to a certain extent on decisions like that. “So things like the whole GSP plus decision or how these negotiations go that somehow affect the atmosphere and how decisions like Airbus are taken here. “ He, however, said it is a free and independent decision and they will continue to have close business relations because of its mutual interest. Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event at the Jatiya Press Club (JPC). DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun also spoke.

German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rüdiger Lotz on Wednesday urged Bangladeshi applicants to submit accurate documents, warning that those who provide false or incorrect papers while applying for student visas are harming the chances of genuine students. “There are thousands of honest students who want to study in Germany, but those who submit documents that are not correct actually damage the chances of people who really want to study,” he said. The German Ambassador made the remarks at ‘DCAB Talk’ hosted by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the Jatiya Press Club (JPC). DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun also spoke at the event. The envoy noted that student visa processing has become increasingly challenging as the number of Bangladeshi applicants continues to rise. He said it should go further up and they try their best to find organisational means to reduce waiting times. “One problem, to be honest with you, is that we have a high number of falsified and incorrect documents being submitted. This means our visa officers need far more time than in many other countries to verify whether an application is genuine,” said the Ambassador. When asked for comments, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain acknowledged the issue and said the fault lies on the Bangladesh side. He urged Bangladeshi visa seekers to refrain from submitting false documents, noting that similar problems are observed in each country. The Ambassador reiterated that Germany seeks a “win-win situation,” as the country faces an aging population while Bangladesh has a young, eager workforce. In recent years, the number of Bangladeshi students enrolling in German universities has steadily increased. “We are also thinking of how to promote vocational training and how to expand these opportunities,” Dr Lotz said.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said Bangladesh expects an answer from India on its latest request for extradition of convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “I do not expect that they will answer within a week of Dhaka’s request but we expect we will get an answer,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when a journalist wanted to know about the update on Hasina’s extradition request. When pressed further, Hossain said he is not saying that Dhaka is not going to get an answer but the fact is that they are not expecting a reply within seven days. Bangladesh wrote to India afresh seeking Hasina’s extradition following the recent verdict by the International Crimes Tribunal-1. Adviser Hossain said the diplomatic note (note verbale) was sent to the Ministry of External Affairs, India through Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. He also acknowledged that Bangladesh did not receive a reply from India on its first request for extradition last year. On November 17, the ICT sentenced Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in a case filed over crimes against humanity committed during last year’s July-August mass uprising. Former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who testified as a state witness in the case, was sentenced to five years in prison. The Foreign Affairs Adviser on Sunday (November 23) disclosed the fresh diplomatic communication with New Delhi A diplomatic source in New Delhi told UNB that the diplomatic note (note verbale) was sent to New Delhi soon after National Security Adviser (NSA) and High Representative for the Rohingya Issue Dr Khalilur Rahman’s returns home from New Delhi. Dr Rahman attended the 7th meeting of the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in New Delhi on November 20 at the invitation of Indian NSA Ajit Doval. After the verdict, Bangladesh urged the government of India to immediately hand over former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, both convicted already, to its authorities. This is also an obligation for India under the existing extradition treaty between the two countries, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement. "It would be a grave act of unfriendly conduct and a travesty of justice for any other country to grant shelter to these individuals convicted of crimes against humanity," it said. Meanwhile, India said it noted the verdict announced by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh concerning Hasina and said they will always engage constructively with all stakeholders. “As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country,” said India’s Ministry of External Affairs in a statement. The India ministry said they will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end.

German Ambassador Dr Rüdiger Lotz on Wednesday highlighted the importance of a “free, fair, credible and participatory” election in Bangladesh with a high outcome, and hoped that the political parties will refrain from violence amongst each other during the election campaign. “I think it's important to have a free, fair, credible and participatory election and an election with a high outcome. I would like to see of course a peaceful election campaign where parties refrain from political violence amongst each other,” he said. The German Ambassador made the remarks at ‘DCAB Talk’ hosted by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the Jatiya Press Club (JPC). DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun also spoke at the event.   Talking about the upcoming national election, scheduled for February next year, Ambassador Lotz said this is something that has an importance that goes far beyond Bangladesh, a country that returns from “autocracy to democracy” and has an impact all over Asia and in the truest sense in the world democracy. Explaining what he meant by participatory election, the envoy said participatory means people have the chance to participate in the elections and a plurality of parties can participate, making sure that “no one is hindered from participating” in the elections. Regarding expected voter turnout, the Ambassador referred to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus who had mentioned a threshold of 60% which would be the goal to reach. “That's very reasonable. Of course we cannot influence that but I think high voter turnout is a very important element,” Ambassador Lotz said, highlighting the importance of an election process where no one is intimidated, where people can freely express their opinion and where the election result is counted in a way that is correct. The German Ambassador who submitted his credentials in August said he always likes the expression that Prof Yunus has used - a joyful election and that is really a moment of joy to see. He, however, said they all know there are challenges on the way to come to that point. “You will have our support, the European Union will most likely also send an observer mission - a very big one - because it's a big and an important country.” Rizvi slams Hasina over reported gold recovery from bank vaults Ambassador Lotz said this is an important basis as they share values of how a government should be formed. “When I came here and started to talk to people, I was really amazed about the openness of people and I don't talk only about the economic and political elite. When you talk to ordinary people, people are willing to express their opinion and that is something which shows how strong the democratic roots in the country actually are.” Responding to a question, the Ambassador said voter turnouts are different in different countries and in many Western countries they differ from 50pc to 80pc or so and that does not really put into question the legitimacy of the elections. “I think the higher the turnout the better. And I think as a mark that somehow indicates a good turnout,” he added.  Ambassador Lotz said they are convinced together with their European partners that the country needs free and fair and credible elections. “We have the impression that the country all in all is in a good way to achieve that. One line I always have when talking also to people back home - you will have the biggest democratic elections in the world in 2026,” he added. Regional Cooperation The Ambassador said the region needs regional cooperation and in Europe they have had very positive experiences with regional cooperation. He said the European Union, as a form of regional working together, is really working closely together. “I think we have come pretty far in Europe when it comes to this form of cooperation.” Ambassador Lotz, however, said now every region in the world is different and has other historic experiences. “So we cannot completely copy one system but I think all over the world there are probably few regions in the world who have so little regional cooperation like South Asia. And this is something which I think the region as a whole must see as a challenge that should be addressed and no matter who governs,” he added. The Ambassador said there are geographical realities that will always be here. “Your neighbor will always be India. China will always play a major role. That is not so surprising and I think that will stay like that.” He said all other foreign policy decisions are the independent decisions of a sovereign government after the elections. National Reconciliation The German Ambassador said what the country needs in the long run or in the short run is eventually a process of “national reconciliation” and a national dialogue. “If I may say so, I say that has been missing here for many years. The country has to come together. Now I understand that it's difficult in a situation where the representatives of the former regime are not willing to admit that something went profoundly wrong,” he said. Ambassador Lotz said this is something they are not there yet but he could imagine that after the elections and in the upcoming time after the elections, there must be at the time when it comes really to the need to get into such form of national reconciliation. Responding to a question, the Ambassador said it is important in general that political parties stay committed to the reform process and stay committed to the reform process also after the elections. “I see the July Charter and the whole process as an attempt really to have a clear commitment whoever governs to continue this reform process. So far I see there is a broad willingness to go in this direction,” he said. This is something they discussed also internally with leaders of political parties and they will continue to do so because, Ambassador Lotz said, adding that it is really the key for this country that this reform process that started in August 2024 is going on even further. Hasina’s Trial Asked what would be Germany’ position if convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina seeks shelter in Germany, the Ambassador said they have not received any question or any wish in that direction. “So, I think if that would ever happen, we would start a discussion process but it's such a theoretical question whether we would be willing or not and I think I'm not in a position to answer that,” he added. When it comes to the legal procedure, Ambassador Lotz said, it is of key importance to have a legal way to confront the injustice of the past, abuse of power by the past regime. This is important for any country after such a political change. “So yes, that has to happen.” He said the European Union and Germany have always been against the death penalty without exception. “So of course we are also in this case against the death penalty.” Dhaka writes to Delhi afresh seeking Hasina’s extradition

The Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCCI) and the Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) on Tuesday called for a joint plan of action to remove trade bottlenecks and strengthen bilateral commercial cooperation. A BCCCI delegation, led by President Mohd. Khorshed Alam and Secretary General Jamilur Rahman, paid a courtesy call on CEAB President Han Kun at the CEAB office in Dhaka to discuss existing challenges and future collaboration. Speaking at the meeting, BCCCI President Khorshed Alam stressed the importance of the textile sector to the economy and said Bangladesh welcomes joint ventures with Chinese investors, particularly in reviving sick or non-operational factories. He said restoring idle units would deliver better commercial outcomes than setting up new ones, adding that BCCCI is ready to extend support, including facilitation to speed up SB clearance processes for CEAB members. CEAB President Han Kun identified key areas for deeper cooperation, including infrastructure development, G2G projects, power and renewable energy, and trade in construction materials. He said coordinated efforts by the two bodies would help address policy challenges and resolve long-pending issues more effectively. BCCCI Secretary General Jamilur Rahman proposed forming a joint working body with representatives from both organisations to identify and resolve trade-related disputes and operational obstacles faced by Bangladeshi and Chinese businesses. Senior Vice President of BCCCI A.Z.M. Azizur Rahman highlighted the strategic opportunity for greater Chinese investment in Bangladesh, noting the growing presence of Chinese firms in the Export Processing Zones. CEAB representatives also shared sector-specific insights. Lin Hai, Vice President of CEAB and head of its ICT branch, underlined the rising importance of 5G, macro technologies and smartphone innovation, and called for stronger technology integration in Bangladesh’s education sector. Mike Ge, President of the CEAB Textile and Garments Branch, spoke on the state of the apparel industry and acknowledged the role of Chinese enterprises as key partners in the global supply chain. Gallery Cosmos hosts 'Shared Horizons'; exhibition marks 50 years of Bangladesh-China ties The meeting was also attended by BCCCI Vice Presidents Khandaker Atiqur Rahman and Mohammad Masud Ali Khan, directors Mohammad Amanur Rahman, A.T.M. Altaf Hossain Lotus, Md. Kamruzzaman Ibne Amin, Asif Haque Rupo, and Office Secretary Md. Abu Taher. CEAB representatives present included Tao Tao, Ma Rui and Zhou Meimei, who shared their investment experiences and observations on the issues discussed.    

Lieutenant General Manish Luthra, Director General Military Operations of Indian Army, has reflected upon the deep-rooted historical relations between Bangladesh and India. While speaking at a reception in New Delhi as the chief guest, he highlighted how the two nations have stood by each other in times of need and how their shared sacrifices and cultural ties have laid the foundation of a unique friendship. Describing the bilateral relationship as truly remarkable and exemplary, he emphasised that the cooperation between the two countries extends beyond the present spectrum, said a media release issued by the Bangladesh High Commission. Luthra expressed his strong conviction that this partnership, built on mutual trust and respect, will continue to grow stronger in the days ahead. Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Monday (November 24) celebrated the Armed Forces Day of Bangladesh with a view to brightening the country's positive image across the world and upholding the image of Bangladesh Armed Forces. To celebrate this special occasion, the Defence Wing of Bangladesh High Commission hosted the reception at Bangladesh High Commission Auditorium. Defence Advisers/Attaches and diplomats of different countries based in New Delhi, senior officers from the Indian armed forces, journalists, members from Bangladeshi community and few Indian war veterans of 1971 attended the event. The programme began with the national anthem of Bangladesh and India respectively. BNP leader Zainul Abedin urges India to return Hasina Thereafter the Defence adviser of Bangladesh high Commission, High Commissioner and the chief guest delivered their speech. Defence Adviser, Brigadier General Md Hafizur Rahman specially mentioned the great sacrifice of the War Heroes of India besides the Mukti-Bahini of Bangladesh in achieving the glorious victory in 1971. Appreciating the presence of the esteemed guests, he highlighted on the progress of defence cooperation between Bangladesh and India, as well as the advancement of Bangladesh Armed Forces at home and international arena. The High Commissioner of Bangladesh, Riaz Hamidullah, in his remarks stated that the relationship between Bangladesh and India is multidimensional. He emphasised that the two nations are bound by shared history, culture and geography, and that the ties between their peoples rest on a strong foundation. The High Commissioner further noted that the basis of this relationship must not be deception, but rather mutual respect and trust. Recalling India’s contribution to Bangladesh’s War of Independence, the High Commissioner highlighted that during the challenging period of 1971, India played a crucial role for Bangladesh. He acknowledged that there remain several challenges and sensitive issues in the bilateral relationship. To build a brighter future for the peoples of both countries, he stressed the need for wisdom and cooperation in the days ahead. He underscored that in order to ensure peace, stability, and a prosperous future for the peoples of Bangladesh and India, both nations must not only address existing challenges but also seize opportunities for mutual collaboration. In his speech, the High Commissioner paid solemn tribute to the women who endured suffering during the Liberation War of 1971, as well as to the 1,668 members of the Indian Armed Forces who sacrificed their lives in that struggle. Afterwards, Indian war veterans who had contributed to Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 were felicitated by the chief guest and the High Commissioner of Bangladesh in India. A short clip containing the contribution of Bangladesh Armed Forces in nation-building and for international peace was screened, followed by cutting of the cake and photo sessions. Read more: Dhaka voices displeasure over Hasina’s interviews with Indian media 

France on Tuesday said it supports the holding of "free, fair and peaceful" elections in Bangladesh and welcomed the interest of the Bangladeshi authorities in the deployment of an EU (European Union) electoral observation mission. At a time when peace and security are under threat in many parts of the world, democracy must be supported and protected from all forms of external interference and threats, such as disinformation campaigns like those faced by European states from Russia, said the Embassy of France after French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet called on Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guesthouse Jamuna. The Ambassador thanked the Chief Adviser for his warm welcome as he was starting his assignment in Bangladesh and opening a new chapter in bilateral relations. The Ambassador reiterated France and Europe's desire to be a long-term partner committed to Bangladesh. France welcomes the electoral process initiated by Prof Yunus and the interim government and commends Prof Yunus' leadership. France commended the efforts of the interim government and its success in achieving macroeconomic stability. With Bangladesh set to reach the important milestone of LDC graduation in 2026, the EU is ready to engage in discussing the next steps and wishes to be considered a reliable long-term partner. The establishment of structural cooperation is essential. In that respect, a structuring partnership in the field of civil aviation, such as the one proposed by Airbus, would be particularly important and would demonstrate this commitment to long-term engagement, said the Embassy. France has been supporting Bangladesh in the field of climate change adaptation, and for more than 10 years, AFD, the French Development Agency, has been investing around €2 billion in projects to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve biodiversity in the country. France intends to continue this work in close cooperation with the Bangladeshi authorities. Cultural, scientific and educational relations between France and Bangladesh are long-standing and strong, notably thanks to the two Alliances Françaises which have been present for more than 65 years in Dhaka and Chittagong. They are particularly active in promoting artists from both countries and teaching the French language. France is also willing to develop student mobility between France and Bangladesh, as the number of Bangladeshi students choosing France for their higher education is increasing. France hopeful of peaceful, credible election in Bangladesh France commended Bangladesh for bearing the brunt of the Rohingya refugee crisis on its territory. France has been a constant contributor to aid these refugees and is also determined to continue its engagement with the international community to find a long-standing solution to this crisis. Last week, France voted in favour of the United Nations resolution to address this crisis.  

Newly appointed Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet has expressed France’s readiness to initiate a new phase in its bilateral relations with Bangladesh, underscoring the strong alignment of interests between the two nations, particularly in the areas of democracy, development, and regional cooperation. Ambassador Séré-Charlet made the remarks during a courtesy call on the Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday. The Ambassador expressed France’s expectation of a peaceful and credible election in Bangladesh in February and indicated that Bangladesh could benefit from France’s experience in conducting elections under challenging circumstances, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad. As Bangladesh was heading to key general elections, he shared that some European nations have been contacted to confront orchestrated disinformation campaigns and efforts to create societal division in the electoral context. The Ambassador stated that Bangladesh stands at an important juncture as the nation approaches a historic national election. “This is a timely moment for France and Bangladesh to advance our partnership and expand our cooperation,” he said. Ambassador Séré-Charlet, who assumed office earlier this month, highlighted Bangladesh’s importance within France’s Indo-Pacific strategy. He noted that approximately 1.5 million French citizens reside in the Indo-Pacific region, accounting for nearly three percent of France’s total population. “The Indo-Pacific remains a region defined by openness and free movement. France sees significant potential for enhanced engagement with Bangladesh,” he added.

The government has officially started sending Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia who could not travel earlier despite completing all procedures. The program targets workers who had completed all steps by May 31, 2024, but were unable to depart due to various issues. The first batch of 60 workers left Dhaka for Malaysia under the government’s initiative through Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Limited (BOESL). Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, was present at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to see off the workers. He expressed gratitude to the Malaysian government and the efforts of the ministry’s Chief Adviser in making the departures possible. “After a long wait, dreams are finally coming true,” he said. He mentioned the repatriation of 188 detainees from the United Arab Emirates, who had been held for participating in movements supporting the July uprising, and said arrangements are being made for their rehabilitation upon returning to Bangladesh. Highlighting various initiatives taken by the current government for the welfare of expatriates, he emphasized that the government is fully committed to the well-being of overseas workers. At the event, chaired by Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Dr. Neyamat Ullah Bhuiyan, Malaysia-going worker Roni Mia, speaking on behalf of the returning workers, expressed deep gratitude for the Chief Adviser’s dedicated initiative and the continuous efforts of the Ministry’s advisers in fulfilling their long-cherished dreams of working abroad. It is to be noted that on October 4, 2024, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, during his visit to Bangladesh, received a request from Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus to facilitate the departure of workers who had been unable to travel to Malaysia. Subsequently, from May 13–16, 2025, Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul and the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs, Lutfey Siddiqui, visited Malaysia to follow up on the initiative. As part of this process, during the 3rd Bangladesh–Malaysia Joint Working Group meeting held on May 21–22, 2025, BOESL was assigned the responsibility of deploying a total of 7,873 workers, out of 17,777, who had completed all procedures by May 31, 2024, but were unable to travel to Malaysia. The deployment was decided for workers in two sectors: construction and tourism. On August 7, a formal agreement was signed with Malaysia’s Construction Labour Exchange Centre Berhad (CLAB) to facilitate the worker deployment. UN human rights experts urge Bangladesh, Malaysia to intensify efforts to protect migrant workers In the first phase, the Malaysian employer, CLAB, requested 500 workers, of whom 255 have already obtained visas and completed all preparations for departure. The event was hosted by Md. Saiful Islam, Managing Director of Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Limited (BOESL). Other distinguished guests included the Director General of BMET, Managing Director of the Wage Earners’ Welfare Board, Managing Director of Probashi Kallyan Bank, Managing Director of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and the Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.