Govt to launch Probashi Card, reopen closed labour markets: minister

The government will soon introduce a “Probashi Card” for expatriates, as promised in the election manifesto, and will take coordinated steps involving multiple ministries to reopen closed labour markets, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury said today.

The expatriates’ welfare, foreign affairs, and home ministries will work together to find a quick solution to legalise around 25,000 undocumented Bangladeshis currently living in Spain, he said.

As per the prime minister’s guidelines, the government has adopted a 180-day priority action plan to reopen closed labour markets, especially in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and other countries where recruitment is currently suspended, he added.

The minister made the remarks while answering questions from journalists at the Sylhet Circuit House.

He further said that, under the prime minister’s instruction, a standing committee has been formed on this issue, with the education ministry also included in the committee.

In response to another question, the minister said that within one month, the media will receive feedback regarding the reopening of the closed labour markets.

At the same press briefing, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said that the market for essential commodities is currently stable and the government hopes to keep it stable in the coming days.

Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee noted that Sylhet is one of the zones under the water resources ministry, comprising four districts: Sylhet, Habiganj, Moulvibazar, and Sunamganj.

He explained that this border area often experiences flooding as water flows in from across the border. Keeping the region free from floods is a major challenge.