Expatriate Welfare Minister announces launch of ‘Probashi Card’ soon

Dhaka: Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury has announced that the government will soon introduce a “Probashi Card” for Bangladeshi expatriates in line with its election manifesto commitments.

Speaking to journalists at Sylhet Circuit House on Saturday, the minister said that following the formation of the new government, steps are being taken to implement priority pledges, including the launch of the Probashi Card aimed at ensuring greater facilities and recognition for overseas Bangladeshis.

Addressing another question, he said the government would take swift and coordinated measures to regularize around 25,000 undocumented Bangladeshis currently residing in Spain. The Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs, will work together to find a solution at the earliest possible time.

The minister further said that under the government’s 180-day priority action plan, the Prime Minister has provided guidelines to reopen suspended labor markets, particularly in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, as well as other destinations where recruitment has remained closed. He added that rapid steps are being taken to resume these labor markets.

He also informed under the Prime Minister’s directive, a standing committee has been formed to address the issue, with the Ministry of Education included as a member to ensure a coordinated approach.

In response to another query, the minister expressed optimism that tangible feedback regarding the reopening of labor markets in the Middle East and other countries would be available within a month.