The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Foreign Affairs Adviser Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury on Thursday said the ministry has instructed all missions abroad to work closely with the government to help migrant workers, particularly trafficking victims.

"I have instructed all our missions to protect and promote the interests of our migrant workers and to work closely with the host governments to help trafficking victims, in the event they are detained or await deportation" he said as the chief guest at a discussion.

Foreign Service Academy (FSA) and International Organization For Migration (IOM) jointly organized the discussion on 'Migration and Human Trafficking' at a city hotel here. Principal of the FSA Ambassador Shahed Akhtar was present as special guest while IOM regional representative, Dhaka, Rabab Fatima gave the welcome speech.

The foreign Adviser said the government has given top priority to human trafficking and migration issues while the Ministries of Foreign and Home Affairs continued diligent efforts to bring the traffickers to justice.

"Our all-out concerted and coordinated efforts, I believe, will help us eradicate the menace of human trafficking and promote safe migration" he said.

The country received over eight billion US dollars as remittance from our migrant workers, Dr Iftekhar said adding that if the present trend continues, we will be able to fetch nine billion US dollars by the end of the year.

In this respect, he said, interest of the migrant workers needs to be protected and steps are underway so that their families do not pay exorbitant sums to secure an overseas employment opportunity.

"We must ensure safe and cost-effective migration for our people to reduce the risks of trafficking" the Foreign Adviser said.

Shahed Akhter laid emphasis on coordinated efforts of all government and non-government organisations to address the illegal migration and human trafficking.

Rabab Fatima said officials of the foreign missions are the guardians of the migrant workers and that is why they have a responsibility to protect their interest by dealing with the respective governments.

A total of 13 trainees and mid-level officers of the ministry of Foreign Affairs, Home and Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment took part on the occasion.