Home Adviser Lt Gen Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd) has called on the European Union (EU) to cooperate with Bangladesh in preventing illegal immigration and strengthening border security.

He made the remarks during a meeting with a European Commission delegation led by Director for Migration and Asylum Michael Shotter at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday (September 11). 

Jahangir emphasized Bangladesh’s zero-tolerance policy on human trafficking, noting that several syndicates have already been brought to justice and legal amendments are underway.

Highlighting the role of Bangladeshi workers in EU countries, the home adviser requested that both skilled and unskilled manpower be allowed to enter the EU following proper legal procedures.

Responding, Shotter expressed concern over the increasing illegal immigration of Bangladeshi citizens amid rising political pressures in EU countries. 

He also suggested reforms in law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, following Bangladesh’s political transformation. Jahangir confirmed that police reforms are already in progress.

At the start of the meeting, the home adviser welcomed the delegation, calling the EU “a development partner and a tested friend.” Discussions also covered bilateral relations, migration, human trafficking, law enforcement reforms, and border security.

European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs were present at the meeting.

MN/