Bangladesh’s Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare, Labour and Employment, Arifur Haque Chowdhury, has announced the launch of a dedicated hotline to assist migrant workers whose visas are expiring due to cancelled international flights.
Speaking at a Holi festival event organized by the Academy for Manipuri Culture and Arts in the Mirzajangal area of Sylhet city on Saturday morning, the minister said many expatriates are facing difficulties as flight disruptions have prevented them from travelling, causing their visas to lapse.
“To support affected expatriates, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare has introduced a hotline service. Those in need can contact the ministry, and the government will provide assistance within its capacity,” he said. The minister added that the government remains committed to resolving the challenges faced by Bangladeshi workers abroad.
Addressing concerns related to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Chowdhury said that whenever reports of Bangladeshi nationals being killed are received, the respective foreign governments are immediately informed. The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular communication on the matter. He also noted that the Prime Minister is personally overseeing developments.
The minister further highlighted that the Holi festival is a traditional celebration of the Manipuri community in Bangladesh. He acknowledged that the community faces various challenges and assured that the government will take effective steps to address their concerns.
