Bangladesh and the European Union have discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including combating human trafficking, promoting the legal migration of skilled workers, strengthening border security and resolving the Rohingya crisis.
The discussions took place during a meeting between a delegation led by EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner and Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed at the latter’s office at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday.
During the meeting, Minister Salahuddin said the Bangladesh government has adopted a “zero-tolerance” policy toward illegal migration.
He said, “Bangladesh is committed to working with the EU to prevent human trafficking through risky and illegal routes and to ensure the protection of prospective migrants.”
Brunner praised the strategic partnership and cooperation between Bangladesh and the EU, saying that preventing human trafficking and completely shutting down illegal migration routes are priorities for both sides. He noted that a reduction in illegal migration would facilitate the entry of Bangladeshi workers into European labour markets through legal channels.
The meeting also featured detailed discussions on accelerating legal migration under the Talent Partnership project through internationally recognised training and certification for Bangladeshi workers.
Minister Salahuddin said Bangladesh has requested training experts from EU member states to come to the country and provide direct training and certification to address European certification-related complications faced by around 750 trained workers. The EU delegation responded positively to the proposal.
He also said the Advanced Passenger Information and Border Management System would become operational at the country’s airports, seaports and land ports by the end of the year. The system will be linked to the Interpol database to enhance traffic monitoring and help identify criminals.
The two sides further discussed establishing direct institutional cooperation between the Ministry of Home Affairs and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (FRONTEX), a move expected to strengthen border management and technical capacity.
On the Rohingya issue, the minister called for increased international pressure on the Myanmar authorities and the Arakan Army to ensure the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar. He warned that the crisis has evolved into a serious regional and global security challenge.
The EU delegation assured Bangladesh of joint diplomatic efforts to help address the crisis.
Other members of the delegation included EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller, Director Henrik Nielsen, Cabinet Member Grigorios Delavekouras and EU Deputy Head of Mission Baiba Zarina.
Senior officials from the ministries of home affairs and foreign affairs, including Additional Secretary Dr Ziauddin Ahmed, were also present at the meeting.
