News Desk, Bangladesh Global: Bangladesh has expressed deep concern over the welfare of its citizens in the Middle East in the wake of recent hostilities in the region. Action has already been taken 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.
Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam held an emergency meeting to review the evolving situation in the Middle East in the evening. During the meeting, they spoke to the Head of Bangladesh Mission in Tehran.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in an official statement said, "Bangladesh regrets the failure of negotiations and expresses deep concern at the latest escalation of hostilities in the Middle East." "Bangladesh strongly believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law can resolve disputes. We re-emphasise the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of every country in the region," it added.
Bangladesh also urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalation and immediately pursue diplomatic efforts to de-escalate, reaffirming its consistent position in favour of peace, stability and security in the Middle East, and called upon the international community to intensify efforts towards restoring calm and facilitating dialogue.
The suspension of air traffic and air space is affecting Bangladeshi workers destined for the Middle East. The government has already requested all the relevant countries to allow stranded citizens, including workers, destined for the Middle East to enter when the situation improves and 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. The Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment today said passengers affected by flight cancellations due to the evolving Middle East situation will be provided with overnight accommodation facilities.
Stay tuned for latest news and updates:www.bangladeshglobal.com
