Staff Reporter:
The Bangladesh government regrets the failure of negotiations and expresses deep concern at the latest escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, it said in a statement on Saturday.
In the wake of US-Israel joint attacks on Iran, Dhaka re-emphasizes the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every country in the Middle East, read the statement issued by the Foreign Ministry.
It strongly believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law can resolve disputes, the statement added. It also urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalation, and immediately pursue diplomatic efforts to de-escalate.
Bangladesh reaffirms its consistent position in favour of peace, stability, and security in the Middle East and calls upon the international community to intensify efforts towards restoring calm and facilitating dialogue.
On Saturday evening, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir and Foreign Secretary held an emergency meeting to review the evolving situation in the Middle East. During the meeting they also spoke to the Head of Bangladesh Mission in Tehran.
The suspension of air traffic and air space is affecting Bangladeshi workers destined for Middle East, officials have learnt, according to the Foreign Ministry statement.
In this backdrop, the government has already requested all the relevant countries to allow the stranded citizens of Bangladesh including workers destined for the Middle East to enter when the situation improves. Dhaka has received assurances from some of the countries in this regard.
Bangladesh authorities have also taken measures to accommodate the needs of stranded workers at different airports in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has initiated actions to ensure the safety and security of its premises in Tehran, its diplomats and other staff in the Embassy, as well as Bangladeshi students in Iran.
