Bangladesh has identified the protection of its citizens in the Middle East as the paramount objective amid the unfolding regional crisis, with the government pledging to prioritize expatriate welfare above all other considerations.
Foreign Minister (FM) Dr Khalilur Rahman delivered this unequivocal message following an inter-ministerial coordination meeting convened on Monday to assess the evolving situation and its implications for the nation.
Addressing journalists at the Foreign Ministry after chairing the high-level session, Dr Khalilur emphasized that national interest is fundamentally defined by citizen welfare. He declared the government would stand firmly behind any Bangladeshi affected by the conflict regardless of their location or circumstances.
The minister revealed he had received direct communications from his counterparts in Kuwait and Bahrain, along with Qatar's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, all of whom provided assurances regarding the safety of Bangladeshi communities in their respective countries.
Dr Khalilur expressed cautious optimism that no additional Bangladeshi nationals would become casualties of the hostilities, while confirming that contingency plans are in place should circumstances deteriorate. The government maintains readiness to implement protective measures at short notice.
Consistent with Bangladesh's diplomatic philosophy, the minister reiterated opposition to military solutions, advocating instead for peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. He expressed hope that diplomatic efforts would quickly de-escalate tensions across the region.
Addressing concerns about prospective migrant workers currently unable to travel due to disrupted aviation services, Dr Khalilur confirmed that arrangements are being prepared to facilitate their departure once normal flight operations resume.
The inter-ministerial gathering brought together senior officials responsible for aviation, labor, disaster management and foreign affairs to coordinate Bangladesh's response to the crisis. Attendees included State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Prime Minister's Adviser Humayun Kabir, Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury, State Minister Md Nurul Haque, and Civil Aviation State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat.
The meeting examined multiple dimensions of the crisis including impacts on air connectivity, expatriate security, and broader regional stability as they affect Bangladeshi interests throughout the Middle East.
