Staff Reporter:
Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment and Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury on Thursday urged officials to work collectively and with urgency to meet public expectations during the new government’s first six months in office.
He made the remarks at an introductory meeting with officials and staff on his first working day at the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment following his oath-taking, said a press release.
The minister said people would closely watch what the new government accomplishes within its first six months, describing the period as one marked by high public interest and momentum.
He instructed officials to prepare a priority list of achievable tasks for the initial six months, in line with the government’s election manifesto.
“To fulfill the expectations of the people, we must work together as a team,” he said, adding that he would hold separate meetings with responsible officials to review plans and responsibilities.
Ariful emphasised the need for coordination with the foreign ministry and other relevant ministries to expedite the work of his ministry.
He also called for sincerity and efficiency in delivering services.
Seeking greater accountability, the minister asked for a detailed list of expatriates who have received government assistance so far, including their countries of return and districts of origin.
He also directed officials to prepare a report outlining why certain international labour markets remain closed, what steps have been taken to reopen them, and what immediate actions are required.
Newly appointed State Minister Md Nurul Haque said he has prior experience working on expatriate issues and stressed the need to reduce migration costs “at any cost.”
He urged officials to treat migrant workers with empathy, noting that many go abroad after selling family assets.
He also emphasised encouraging migrants to send remittances through legal channels and suggested strengthening support services at airports to better assist outgoing workers.
Secretary of the ministry Neyamat Ullah Bhuiyan and other senior officials were present at the meeting.
