Bangladesh foreign minister A K&nbsp;Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dhaka, Momen expressed his disappointment over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/five-killed-as-passenger-train-in-bangladesh-catches-fire-police-suspect-arson-677029">arson attack on Benpole Express</a> saying, "This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime and we will find the culprit and definitely will punish them."

He thanked the Indian government for its statement on the Bangladesh election, pointing out that "India has a mature democracy."

"We are thankful to India for such a&nbsp;statement. The sustained statement they have been making all the time, that this is a domestic issue".&nbsp;

Momen highlighted how several observers, from the West and India are in the country to monitor the elections. He spoke about the US comments on the elections, Awami League's manifesto, and more.

Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the burning of the Benapole Express train?

A. K. Abdul Momen: It is very sad, and indeed, very disappointing. The train, fully loaded, had 194 passengers from Benapole to Dhaka, and the arsonists burned four compartments as a result poor people died, including two little kids. This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime. We will find the culprits and definitely punish them. This is not acceptable at all. We would expect everyone to condemn such heinous acts and if any political party is behind them, they should repent for such heinous crimes.

Sidhant Sibal: Do you expect more violence before the elections? It's less than 24 hours before Bangladesh goes to elections?

A. K. Abdul Momen: You see, in the whole subcontinent there is a culture of violence, during or before the election. And this time the violence is relatively low. But yet there are new innovative ways of burden. For example, burning the compartments of a railway. These are the new things we see or&nbsp;derailing the train. The government has taken adequate measures so that there is no more violence. But these are some tough guerrilla attacks. So it's difficult to tell if there will be more. But we will try to see that no arsonist can take any advantage until our election time, we have mobilised thousands of police forces all across and we have asked the general public to let us know if they know any of those conspiracies, and the public will be rewarded. So I hope that violence will reduce dramatically.

Sidhant Sibal: So what are the measures taken by the Bangladeshi Government ahead of the elections, in terms of the number of deployments, in terms of security?&nbsp;

A. K. Abdul Momen: See there are varieties of focus, and all forces have been mobilised, including the army, so we hope that the violence will stop. I cannot tell you how many people but hundreds and thousands, a variety of police forces have been mobilised all across the country.

Sidhant Sibal: If I can talk about a geopolitical aspect, we have seen comments coming from Washington. We have seen the US ambassador also commenting, how do you see these comments so over the Bangladesh elections

A. K. Abdul Momen: As you understand, the US and Europeans have been asking us for a free, fair, and transparent election. Now they're more or less convinced that there will be a free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. Since then, they have not made too much noise but it is not their noise which is important. The most important is ours. We want&nbsp;a free, fair, credible, and transparent election. That's our objective. To uphold a free, fair, and transparent election.

Sidhant Sibal: So you're giving an assurance to the global community that the Bangladesh elections will be free, fair, and transparent.

A. K. Abdul Momen: Yes, of course, there is no doubt about it. And if anyone wants to observe we have invited hundreds of observers, around 25,000 local election observers and there are 227 international observers, from many organisations like the Commonwealth, you name it, the IPU (Inter-Parliamentary Conference), and OIC (Organization for Islamic Cooperation). There are Western observers here. And they're free to move anywhere. In addition, there are journalists from all across the globe. So, my reading is that you know, they will be reporting but we want a free, fair, non-violent, and transparent election.

Sidhant Sibal: Observers from India as well?

A. K. Abdul Momen: There are observers from India as well, the election commission of India. In addition, there are plenty of journalists from India.

Sidhant Sibal: So, my final question now, India has said that the Bangladesh election is its domestic matter, a stance clear, consistent taken by New Delhi. How do you see that stance as well?

A. K. Abdul Momen: I must say that we have great respect for Indian leadership, and India has a mature democracy. So, they know that these elections have domestic issues. These are not International, you know, leaders to make their own national interest you see, so, I'm very pleased and, we are very pleased with the Indian statement that this is a domestic issue, and Bangladesh is knows, over the last so many years, we have hold 1000s of elections. So we know how to manage a free fair and transparent election. We are thankful to India for such a &nbsp;statement. And the statement is steadfast. The sustained statement they've been making all the time is that this is a domestic issue. I hope other governments across the world, should realise what India is saying and they should follow India. Every country even in the developed country, there are questions about their democracy, about systems so they should be mindful of their systems instead of poking their nose on someone else's domestic issues.

Sidhant Sibal: The manifesto of Awami League has talked about strengthening ties with India. The manifesto, I read...

A. K. Abdul Momen: If you look at our manifesto, the general manifesto which is most important to our public issues like inflation issues, like job creation issues, as you know, women empowerment, these are included, and also issues like you know, this freedom of media, and because we believe media is a party to our development process. And of course, we have believed that you know, we must maintain a balanced foreign policy and our cardinal principle is friendship to all, malice to none. In addition, we always give the neighborhood first, we give importance to our neighbors. We are thankful that we have developed a very good relationship with all our neighbours India, Nepal, Bhutan, and even Myanmar. Although Myanmar you see, has sent around 1.2 million, persecuted residents of Myanmar, we have a good relationship and we hope we can resolve the repatriation of these people amicably through dialogue and discussion. And I can guarantee that the election would be free, fair, non-violent, and credible. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dhaka, Momen expressed his disappointment over the arson attack on Benpole Express saying, "This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime and we will find the culprit and definitely will punish them." He thanked the Indian government for its statement on the Bangladesh election, pointing out that "India has a mature democracy." "We are thankful to India for such a statement. The sustained statement they have been making all the time, that this is a domestic issue". Momen highlighted how several observers, from the West and India are in the country to monitor the elections. He spoke about the US comments on the elections, Awami League's manifesto, and more. Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the burning of the Benapole Express train? A. K. Abdul Momen: It is very sad, and indeed, very disappointing. The train, fully loaded, had 194 passengers from Benapole to Dhaka, and the arsonists burned four compartments as a result poor people died, including two little kids. This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime. We will find the culprits and definitely punish them. This is not acceptable at all. We would expect everyone to condemn such heinous acts and if any political party is behind them, they should repent for such heinous crimes. Sidhant Sibal: Do you expect more violence before the elections? It's less than 24 hours before Bangladesh goes to elections? A. K. Abdul Momen: You see, in the whole subcontinent there is a culture of violence, during or before the election. And this time the violence is relatively low. But yet there are new innovative ways of burden. For example, burning the compartments of a railway. These are the new things we see or derailing the train. The government has taken adequate measures so that there is no more violence. But these are some tough guerrilla attacks. So it's difficult to tell if there will be more. But we will try to see that no arsonist can take any advantage until our election time, we have mobilised thousands of police forces all across and we have asked the general public to let us know if they know any of those conspiracies, and the public will be rewarded. So I hope that violence will reduce dramatically. Sidhant Sibal: So what are the measures taken by the Bangladeshi Government ahead of the elections, in terms of the number of deployments, in terms of security? A. K. Abdul Momen: See there are varieties of focus, and all forces have been mobilised, including the army, so we hope that the violence will stop. I cannot tell you how many people but hundreds and thousands, a variety of police forces have been mobilised all across the country. Sidhant Sibal: If I can talk about a geopolitical aspect, we have seen comments coming from Washington. We have seen the US ambassador also commenting, how do you see these comments so over the Bangladesh elections A. K. Abdul Momen: As you understand, the US and Europeans have been asking us for a free, fair, and transparent election. Now they're more or less convinced that there will be a free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. Since then, they have not made too much noise but it is not their noise which is important. The most important is ours. We want a free, fair, credible, and transparent election. That's our objective. To uphold a free, fair, and transparent election. Sidhant Sibal: So you're giving an assurance to the global community that the Bangladesh elections will be free, fair, and transparent. A. K. Abdul Momen: Yes, of course, there is no doubt about it. And if anyone wants to observe we have invited hundreds of observers, around 25,000 local election observers and there are 227 international observers, from many organisations like the Commonwealth, you name it, the IPU (Inter-Parliamentary Conference), and OIC (Organization for Islamic Cooperation). There are Western observers here. And they're free to move anywhere. In addition, there are journalists from all across the globe. So, my reading is that you know, they will be reporting but we want a free, fair, non-violent, and transparent election. Sidhant Sibal: Observers from India as well? A. K. Abdul Momen: There are observers from India as well, the election commission of India. In addition, there are plenty of journalists from India. Sidhant Sibal: So, my final question now, India has said that the Bangladesh election is its domestic matter, a stance clear, consistent taken by New Delhi. How do you see that stance as well? A. K. Abdul Momen: I must say that we have great respect for Indian leadership, and India has a mature democracy. So, they know that these elections have domestic issues. These are not International, you know, leaders to make their own national interest you see, so, I'm very pleased and, we are very pleased with the Indian statement that this is a domestic issue, and Bangladesh is knows, over the last so many years, we have hold 1000s of elections. So we know how to manage a free fair and transparent election. We are thankful to India for such a statement. And the statement is steadfast. The sustained statement they've been making all the time is that this is a domestic issue. I hope other governments across the world, should realise what India is saying and they should follow India. Every country even in the developed country, there are questions about their democracy, about systems so they should be mindful of their systems instead of poking their nose on someone else's domestic issues. Sidhant Sibal: The manifesto of Awami League has talked about strengthening ties with India. The manifesto, I read... A. K. Abdul Momen: If you look at our manifesto, the general manifesto which is most important to our public issues like inflation issues, like job creation issues, as you know, women empowerment, these are included, and also issues like you know, this freedom of media, and because we believe media is a party to our development process. And of course, we have believed that you know, we must maintain a balanced foreign policy and our cardinal principle is friendship to all, malice to none. In addition, we always give the neighborhood first, we give importance to our neighbors. We are thankful that we have developed a very good relationship with all our neighbours India, Nepal, Bhutan, and even Myanmar. Although Myanmar you see, has sent around 1.2 million, persecuted residents of Myanmar, we have a good relationship and we hope we can resolve the repatriation of these people amicably through dialogue and discussion. And I can guarantee that the election would be free, fair, non-violent, and credible. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen spoke with Sidhant Sibbal, WION's Principle Diplomatic Correspondent. He said, trade between India & Bangladesh is flourishing. The two nations have a wonderful relationship.

'Trade between India & Bangladesh is flourishing,' says AK Abdul Momen on WION

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen spoke with Sidhant Sibbal, WION's Principle Diplomatic Correspondent. He said, no foreign funds used to build Padma bridge.

WION Exclusive: 'Padma bridge not made by China,' says Bangladesh FM AK Abdul Momen

Bangladesh foreign minister (FM) AK Abdul Momen will be on a Delhi visit next week for the Joint Consultative Commission (JCC) meeting.&nbsp;The JCC is expected to happen on or around 18th June.&nbsp;The meet will be co-chaired by both the foreign ministers and focus on issues like connectivity, post-Covid issues, etc.

Last month the Bangladeshi foreign minister&nbsp;was in the North-eastern state of Assam's Guwahati for the Natural Allies in Development and Interdependence (NADI) Asian Confluence River Conclave 2022 which was inaugurated by EAM Jaishankar. In Guwahati, during EAM Jaishankar &amp; FM Momen's meet, the latter had sought suggestions to import crude oil from Russia without the worry over sanctions.

New Delhi has invested a lot in its relationship with Dhaka, which both sides have been eager to point out as the "golden era" or "Sonali Adhyay" in ties. EAM Jaishankar was in Dhaka in April, as last year both Indian president and&nbsp;prime ministers were in the country despite the Covid crisis to attend the 50 years of diplomatic relation of Bangladesh, while also commemorating the birth centenary of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Later this year Bangladesh PM Hasina is expected to be in Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eam-s-jaishankar-meets-counterparts-from-bangladesh-south-korea-czech-republic-and-eu-in-paris-455276">Also read |&nbsp;EAM S Jaishankar meets counterparts from Bangladesh, South Korea, Czech Republic and EU in Paris</a>

One of the key pillars in the relationship has been connectivity. Both India and Bangladesh aim to revive all pre-1965 rail links. As of now, five links connecting West Bengal with Bangladesh have been made operational which include Petrapole (India) - Benapole (Bangladesh), Gede (India) - Darshana (Bangladesh), Singhabad (India) Rohanpur (Bangladesh), Radhikapur (India) - Birol (Bangladesh) with Haldibari-Chilahati forming the 5th such link.

Inside Bangladesh, India is collaborating on a series of road projects, including improving the Ashuganj River Port-Akhaura Land Port Road under an LoC of more than US$ 400 million. The road project connecting Baruerhat to Ramgarh on the India-Bangladesh border, which will increase Tripura’s Road connectivity with Bangladesh. Negotiations are also underway to operationalise the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement to ensure seamless vehicular movement. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

&nbsp;

Bangladesh foreign minister (FM) AK Abdul Momen will be on a Delhi visit next week for the Joint Consultative Commission (JCC) meeting. The JCC is expected to happen on or around 18th June.

Bangladesh foreign minister (FM) AK Abdul Momen will be on a Delhi visit next week for the Joint Consultative Commission (JCC) meeting. The JCC is expected to happen on or around 18th June. The meet will be co-chaired by both the foreign ministers and focus on issues like connectivity, post-Covid issues, etc. Last month the Bangladeshi foreign minister was in the North-eastern state of Assam's Guwahati for the Natural Allies in Development and Interdependence (NADI) Asian Confluence River Conclave 2022 which was inaugurated by EAM Jaishankar. In Guwahati, during EAM Jaishankar & FM Momen's meet, the latter had sought suggestions to import crude oil from Russia without the worry over sanctions. New Delhi has invested a lot in its relationship with Dhaka, which both sides have been eager to point out as the "golden era" or "Sonali Adhyay" in ties. EAM Jaishankar was in Dhaka in April, as last year both Indian president and prime ministers were in the country despite the Covid crisis to attend the 50 years of diplomatic relation of Bangladesh, while also commemorating the birth centenary of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Later this year Bangladesh PM Hasina is expected to be in Delhi. Also read | EAM S Jaishankar meets counterparts from Bangladesh, South Korea, Czech Republic and EU in Paris One of the key pillars in the relationship has been connectivity. Both India and Bangladesh aim to revive all pre-1965 rail links. As of now, five links connecting West Bengal with Bangladesh have been made operational which include Petrapole (India) - Benapole (Bangladesh), Gede (India) - Darshana (Bangladesh), Singhabad (India) Rohanpur (Bangladesh), Radhikapur (India) - Birol (Bangladesh) with Haldibari-Chilahati forming the 5th such link. Inside Bangladesh, India is collaborating on a series of road projects, including improving the Ashuganj River Port-Akhaura Land Port Road under an LoC of more than US$ 400 million. The road project connecting Baruerhat to Ramgarh on the India-Bangladesh border, which will increase Tripura’s Road connectivity with Bangladesh. Negotiations are also underway to operationalise the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement to ensure seamless vehicular movement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Delhi visit next week

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived on Tuesday in Dhaka on a two-day visit to Bangladesh. Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen received Prince Faisal at Shahjalal International Airport.

Saudi Foreign Minister arrives in Bangladesh

Bangladesh's Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen has expressed his delight that 'PM of the Biggest Democracy' is taking part in the country's 50th Independence anniversary celebration. Speaking exclusively to our Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Momen said, 'Our relationship with India was rock solid.'

Delighted that PM of biggest Democracy joining our independence celebration: Bangladesh FM

Watch an exclusive interview of AK Abdul Momen, Foreign Minister Bangladesh with Palki Sharma.

The Interview with AK Abdul Momen, Foreign Minister, Bangladesh

Bangladesh Minister of Foreign Affairs AK Abdul Momen said that Bangladesh is "very lucky" that Indian PM Narendra Modi will be a part of two of its major celebrations in an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.&nbsp;

PM Modi will be visiting Bangladesh on January 26 for the celebrations of 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and the 100th birth anniversary of its Father of the Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wion-exclusive-what-pm-modis-visit-to-dhaka-means-for-bangladesh-370082/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"These are two great events for Bangladesh and we are very lucky that the Indian Prime Minister will join us in this celebration," Momen said. &nbsp;

He also underscored that both countries have a "rock-solid relationship" and there has been a strong social, cultural and historical bond between people of both nations.&nbsp;

The Bangladeshi foreign minister also said that during the country's independence movement, India came forward to help them "physically, mentally" and stressed that Indian soldiers "shed blood" for their cause.&nbsp;

He also thanked his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar for keeping his word of visiting Bangladesh in-person once the coronavirus situation improved in India.&nbsp;

"We have shown the world the height of the leadership maturity as we have resolved most of the major issues through dialogue, discussions and through consensus," Momen said.&nbsp;

However, he said there are few issues remaining, like border killing, but added that both countries are on the same page to settle the matter and are against any loss of life.&nbsp;

Momen also said that the countries agreed to open a bridge between Bangladesh and India and road connectivity which will extend to Nepal and Bhutan.&nbsp;

He also said that India was requested to join India-Bangladesh-Myanmar-Thailand and beyond road belt to which New Delhi agreed.&nbsp;

On the Teesta river issue, the Bangladeshi minister said that both countries stood by the 2011 agreement, but due to some local problems, the delivery of the deal has not been done.&nbsp;

Even Jaishankar told me that "let's keep our fingers crossed" and I hope that the issue will be resolved, he said.&nbsp;

<h2>Rohingya crisis</h2>

He said that there are 1.1 million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and their effort is to provide them with education and technical knowledge.&nbsp;

Recognising that Rohingyas have been "persecuted, killed" in their own land, Momen said that they are negotiating with the Myanmar government.

He described Myanmar as a "friendly nation," and said that the country agreed to take these migrants home.&nbsp;

But "almost four years have passed, there has been lack of insecurity and Rohingyas don't trust their govt," he said. &nbsp;

He said that Bangladesh suggested Myanmar allow non-military civilian observers from friendly countries like ASEAN, India, Japan and others to monitor that these migrants are safely sent back, but Myanmar did not answer their requests.&nbsp;

But, he hoped that the Myanmar junta can find a solution to the massive crisis.&nbsp;

"The generals have visited some of the Rohingyas in Rakhine camps and assured them safety and security. These are good beginnings," the Bangladeshi minister said.&nbsp;

He recalled Myanmar's military administration in 1978 and 1992 when the country was able to repatriate 200,000 refugees each time, stressing that it "depends on political commitment".&nbsp;

Momen said soon a solution to this matter should be found otherwise the Rohingyas out of "frustration" could become radicals.&nbsp;

"If these Rohingyas will be here for very long without any hope...then there is always a possibility of developing radicalism," he said, adding that then it will be a problem for the entire region.&nbsp;

<h2>On rumours of India stopping Chinese vaccine trials&nbsp;</h2>

"These are unsubstantiated, rumours. The reality is India is our age-old friend," he said.&nbsp;

He called China Bangladesh's "development partner" and added that the country has good relations with Beijing.&nbsp;

Momen thanked India for sending two million vaccine doses and agreeing to provide 30 million more.&nbsp;

He also expressed hope that one day that the region one day becomes passport-free.&nbsp;

"I believe one day the whole of Indian sub-continent will be visa-free...just like European Union," the Bangladeshi foreign minister said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bangladesh Minister of Foreign Affairs AK Abdul Momen said that Bangladesh is "very lucky" that Indian PM Narendra Modi will be a part of two of its major celebrations in an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.

Bangladesh Minister of Foreign Affairs AK Abdul Momen said that Bangladesh is "very lucky" that Indian PM Narendra Modi will be a part of two of its major celebrations in an exclusive interview with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma. PM Modi will be visiting Bangladesh on January 26 for the celebrations of 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and the 100th birth anniversary of its Father of the Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Watch | "These are two great events for Bangladesh and we are very lucky that the Indian Prime Minister will join us in this celebration," Momen said. He also underscored that both countries have a "rock-solid relationship" and there has been a strong social, cultural and historical bond between people of both nations. The Bangladeshi foreign minister also said that during the country's independence movement, India came forward to help them "physically, mentally" and stressed that Indian soldiers "shed blood" for their cause. He also thanked his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar for keeping his word of visiting Bangladesh in-person once the coronavirus situation improved in India. "We have shown the world the height of the leadership maturity as we have resolved most of the major issues through dialogue, discussions and through consensus," Momen said. However, he said there are few issues remaining, like border killing, but added that both countries are on the same page to settle the matter and are against any loss of life. Momen also said that the countries agreed to open a bridge between Bangladesh and India and road connectivity which will extend to Nepal and Bhutan. He also said that India was requested to join India-Bangladesh-Myanmar-Thailand and beyond road belt to which New Delhi agreed. On the Teesta river issue, the Bangladeshi minister said that both countries stood by the 2011 agreement, but due to some local problems, the delivery of the deal has not been done. Even Jaishankar told me that "let's keep our fingers crossed" and I hope that the issue will be resolved, he said. Rohingya crisis He said that there are 1.1 million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and their effort is to provide them with education and technical knowledge. Recognising that Rohingyas have been "persecuted, killed" in their own land, Momen said that they are negotiating with the Myanmar government. He described Myanmar as a "friendly nation," and said that the country agreed to take these migrants home. But "almost four years have passed, there has been lack of insecurity and Rohingyas don't trust their govt," he said. He said that Bangladesh suggested Myanmar allow non-military civilian observers from friendly countries like ASEAN, India, Japan and others to monitor that these migrants are safely sent back, but Myanmar did not answer their requests. But, he hoped that the Myanmar junta can find a solution to the massive crisis. "The generals have visited some of the Rohingyas in Rakhine camps and assured them safety and security. These are good beginnings," the Bangladeshi minister said. He recalled Myanmar's military administration in 1978 and 1992 when the country was able to repatriate 200,000 refugees each time, stressing that it "depends on political commitment". Momen said soon a solution to this matter should be found otherwise the Rohingyas out of "frustration" could become radicals. "If these Rohingyas will be here for very long without any hope...then there is always a possibility of developing radicalism," he said, adding that then it will be a problem for the entire region. On rumours of India stopping Chinese vaccine trials "These are unsubstantiated, rumours. The reality is India is our age-old friend," he said. He called China Bangladesh's "development partner" and added that the country has good relations with Beijing. Momen thanked India for sending two million vaccine doses and agreeing to provide 30 million more. He also expressed hope that one day that the region one day becomes passport-free. "I believe one day the whole of Indian sub-continent will be visa-free...just like European Union," the Bangladeshi foreign minister said.

Bangladesh 'very lucky' to host PM Narendra Modi for major celebrations: Foreign Minister Momen

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has announced that the country will be extending visas and&nbsp;residency permits for the migrant workers whose documents have expired.

The announcement was made in a press conference on Wednesday night after hundreds of migrant workers in Bangladesh launched a protest asking their government to intervene and initiate talks with Saudi Arabia.

The migrant workers will be allowed to get their visas and permits extended from Sunday when the&nbsp;Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Bangladesh reopens.

The permits which will be expiring from September 18 to October 17 will also be extended under the same new rule announced on Wednesday.

In addition to this, the Biman Bangladesh Airlines have also been asked to resume their services between the two countries, weeks after the Saudi officials had asked the airlines to stop their commercial flight services.

The airlines has announced special flights on September 26 and 27 to Jeddah and Riyadh for those who had booked return tickets for March 16 and 17. There will be more soecial flights till the end of the month, and normal operations will commence from next month.

The decision was taken after hundreds of protestors took to streets outside the&nbsp;Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment in Dhaka's Eskaton.

However, Momen has warned the migrant workers to pratice patience and has warned of strict actions if the Saudi government took offence to the ongoing protests which saw various slogans against the Saudi government and Kingdom.

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has announced that the country will be extending visas and residency permits for the migrant workers whose documents have expired.

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has announced that the country will be extending visas and residency permits for the migrant workers whose documents have expired. The announcement was made in a press conference on Wednesday night after hundreds of migrant workers in Bangladesh launched a protest asking their government to intervene and initiate talks with Saudi Arabia. The migrant workers will be allowed to get their visas and permits extended from Sunday when the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Bangladesh reopens. The permits which will be expiring from September 18 to October 17 will also be extended under the same new rule announced on Wednesday. In addition to this, the Biman Bangladesh Airlines have also been asked to resume their services between the two countries, weeks after the Saudi officials had asked the airlines to stop their commercial flight services. The airlines has announced special flights on September 26 and 27 to Jeddah and Riyadh for those who had booked return tickets for March 16 and 17. There will be more soecial flights till the end of the month, and normal operations will commence from next month. The decision was taken after hundreds of protestors took to streets outside the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment in Dhaka's Eskaton. However, Momen has warned the migrant workers to pratice patience and has warned of strict actions if the Saudi government took offence to the ongoing protests which saw various slogans against the Saudi government and Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia to extend visas and permits for Bangladeshi workers: Reports

The father of a woman who married an Islamic State fighter as a teen told AFP Thursday he would seek citizenship for her if she came to Bangladesh, after she lost an initial bid to restore her British nationality.

Shamima Begum left the UK for Syria with two school friends in 2015, when she was just 15, prompting the British government to revoke her citizenship last year.

Begum, now 20, appealed the decision but lost the first round of her legal challenge on Friday when a tribunal ruled Downing Street "did not make her stateless" as she was a citizen of Bangladesh by descent.

Her father Ahmed Ali, who follows Begum's plight from a remote village in northeastern Bangladesh, said he would help her apply for citizenship if she wanted to move to the Muslim-majority nation of 168 million people.

"I feel sorry for her. Any parent will feel bad for her," Ali said.

But Ali was worried Begum might be prosecuted if she entered the South Asian nation, after Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said Bangladesh had "no relationship" with the young woman.

"Shamima Begum was born... British. She lived as a British (citizen). She never applied for Bangladesh citizenship. We have nothing to do with her," Momen told reporters earlier this week.

Momen told AFP Thursday he would not consider granting her citizenship.

Begum was one of three schoolgirls from east London who left home to join the jihadist group on February 17, 2015.&nbsp;

She claims she married a Dutch convert soon after arriving in IS-held territory. She was discovered, nine months pregnant, in a Syrian refugee camp in February last year.

Her newborn baby died soon after she gave birth. Two of her other children also died under IS rule.

Begum's lawyer Daniel Furner said she would "immediately initiate an appeal" against Friday's decision.

Ali said he last visited London in December 2018, where he spoke to Begum's mother and other family members who live in England.

He believes his daughter was brainwashed into joining IS.&nbsp;

"It was certainly a mistake to go to IS. Perhaps it was because she was a child. She may not have gone there (Syria) willingly. She may have been ill-advised by other people," he said. 
&nbsp;

The father of a woman who married an Islamic State fighter as a teen told AFP Thursday he would seek citizenship for her if she came to Bangladesh, after she lost an initial bid to restore her British nationality.

The father of a woman who married an Islamic State fighter as a teen told AFP Thursday he would seek citizenship for her if she came to Bangladesh, after she lost an initial bid to restore her British nationality. Shamima Begum left the UK for Syria with two school friends in 2015, when she was just 15, prompting the British government to revoke her citizenship last year. Begum, now 20, appealed the decision but lost the first round of her legal challenge on Friday when a tribunal ruled Downing Street "did not make her stateless" as she was a citizen of Bangladesh by descent. Her father Ahmed Ali, who follows Begum's plight from a remote village in northeastern Bangladesh, said he would help her apply for citizenship if she wanted to move to the Muslim-majority nation of 168 million people. "I feel sorry for her. Any parent will feel bad for her," Ali said. But Ali was worried Begum might be prosecuted if she entered the South Asian nation, after Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said Bangladesh had "no relationship" with the young woman. "Shamima Begum was born... British. She lived as a British (citizen). She never applied for Bangladesh citizenship. We have nothing to do with her," Momen told reporters earlier this week. Momen told AFP Thursday he would not consider granting her citizenship. Begum was one of three schoolgirls from east London who left home to join the jihadist group on February 17, 2015. She claims she married a Dutch convert soon after arriving in IS-held territory. She was discovered, nine months pregnant, in a Syrian refugee camp in February last year. Her newborn baby died soon after she gave birth. Two of her other children also died under IS rule. Begum's lawyer Daniel Furner said she would "immediately initiate an appeal" against Friday's decision. Ali said he last visited London in December 2018, where he spoke to Begum's mother and other family members who live in England. He believes his daughter was brainwashed into joining IS. "It was certainly a mistake to go to IS. Perhaps it was because she was a child. She may not have gone there (Syria) willingly. She may have been ill-advised by other people," he said.

Father of British IS bride may seek Bangladesh citizenship for her

Bangladesh's foreign minister AK Abdul Momen has said when it comes to Citizenship amendment law and NRC, they trust New Delhi and Indian leadership. Opinion: How Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is different from NRC and NPR Speaking exclusively with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Momen said, India has assured Dhaka that these issues will not impact Bangladesh and he believes in the Indian government.

Bangladesh's foreign minister AK Abdul Momen has said when it comes to Citizenship amendment law and NRC, they trust New Delhi and Indian leadership. Opinion: How Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is different from NRC and NPR Speaking exclusively with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Momen said, India has assured Dhaka that these issues will not impact Bangladesh and he believes in the Indian government. Opinion: How CAA and NRC affect India-Bangladesh ties He also spoke on Teesta, SAARC and other issues. WION is the first channel in India with which Bangladesh FM has spoken extensively since the passage of CAA law in December of 2019. WION: How you see current ties between India and Bangladesh? A K Abdul Momen: Current ties between Bangladesh and India are simply excellent. Our relationship is based on mutual trust and confidence. WION: The key has been connectivity, how is the work going on the projects? A K Abdul Momen: Work on connectivity is progressing smoothly. WION: How do you see India's support on Rohingya refugee issue? Do u think India needs to do more? A K Abdul Momen: India assured us of full support on Rohingya issue. Being a friend, our expectation is that they will do much more proactively and effectively. WION: Are you hopefull, Teesta Issue will be resolved with India, given that it has been a long-pending issue? A K Abdul Momen: Yes, we are hopeful that Teesta issue will be resolved as India promised it. WION: The citizenship amendment law, is something that has been a talked about. Do you think, it is going to have a negative impact on the state of relationship? A K Abdul Momen: CAA and NRC issues are India's internal issues. India assured us repeatedly that these issues will not affect Bangladesh at all. We have trust in Indian leadership and we expect that India, being our historic friend will not do anything that may cause harm to Bangladesh. WION: On SAARC, do you think the body is dead? A K Abdul Momen: When relationship and confidence between Pakistan and India will improve, SAARC can be more effective and can deliver better. Thank you.

India will not harm Bangladesh, we trust New Delhi: Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on CAA-NRC

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home".&nbsp;

"I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

"Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added.

The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit&nbsp;triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament.

Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong.

"Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference.

Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI.

He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker.&nbsp;

The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit.

"I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen. "Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added. The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament. Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong. "Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference. Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI. He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker. The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit. "I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister cancels India visit due to 'increasing demand at home'

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370.

"The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read.

"The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added.

Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France.

Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter.

A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.

India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror. 
&nbsp;

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

India and Pakistan should resolve their disputes on Kashmir through "dialogue and discussion", Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said on Tuesday during a telephonic conversation with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. The call was made by Qureshi as part of Islamabad`s nefarious designs to internationalise the Kashmir issue after New Delhi changed the constitutional status of the region by abrogating Article 370. "The Foreign Minister apprised his Bangladeshi counterpart of the illegal and unilateral actions of India to alter the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which was in contravention of the international law and UNSC resolutions," a statement by Pakistan Foreign Ministry read. "The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and discussions," it added. Pakistan is rattled by the Indian government`s move to strip the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 and has found itself completely isolated on the matter after being snubbed at the United Nations Security Council, as well as by many countries, including US, Russia, and France. Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had earlier made it clear that the Indian government`s move on Kashmir was the country`s internal matter. A similar stance has been maintained by most of the SAARC countries, including Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Resolve disputes with India through talks: Bangladesh Foreign Minister tells Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Myanmar on Friday pushed the blame for its second failed attempt to repatriate the Rohingya in Bangladesh, a day after not a single refugee turned up to return to conflict-scarred Rakhine state.&nbsp;

The Myanmar military waged a brutal crackdown on the stateless Muslim minority in western Rakhine state, leading to an exodus of more than 740,000 Rohingya to neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The region remains riven by religious and ethnic conflict.&nbsp;

The Rohingya who stayed remain confined in squalid camps or villages with no freedom of movement.

Despite a 2017 pact signed by the two countries, the first repatriation efforts have failed, with virtually no Rohingya agreeing to return without guarantees of safety and citizenship.

A fresh push was to begin Thursday, with both governments vowing to repatriate nearly 3,500 Rohingya, but this again fell flat when no one turned up for buses intended to ferry them across the border.&nbsp;

Myanmar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs continued the blame game on Friday.&nbsp;

"Smooth repatriation for the displaced persons would require the adherence to the bilateral agreement," the state-run New Light of Myanmar said.

The ministry put the onus on Bangladesh for failing to distribute the correct paperwork, so-called "verification forms" to potential returnees a controversial form of ID that falls short of granting Rohingya citizenship.

"This procedure was not adhered to," it said, adding Bangladesh had also "ignored" a request to expedite the return of more than 400 Hindu refugees.

The ministry confirmed China and Japan had facilitated the repatriation, and it had been the Chinese government that informed them earlier this month of Bangladesh's intent to re-start the process.

Dhaka is eager for the Rohingya's return, with its resources severely strained by nearly a million refugees living in camps.

Thursday's no-show by the refugees was "very disappointing" for Bangladesh, said foreign minister AK Abdul Momen.

He added the Rohingya were taking the country "hostage" by insisting on their demands for citizenship.

But rights groups warn that conditions are not right for repatriation, and UN investigators say the 2017 violence warrants the prosecution of top generals for "genocide".&nbsp;

Any Rohingya returning to Myanmar "will be going back into a situation of persecution", Christopher Sidoti, a UN fact-finding team member, told this week.

The Myanmar military is also currently locked in fierce fighting with the Arakan Army, a group claiming to fight for autonomy for the ethnic Rakhine people.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Myanmar on Friday pushed the blame for its second failed attempt to repatriate the Rohingya in Bangladesh, a day after not a single refugee turned up to return to conflict-scarred Rakhine state.

Myanmar on Friday pushed the blame for its second failed attempt to repatriate the Rohingya in Bangladesh, a day after not a single refugee turned up to return to conflict-scarred Rakhine state. The Myanmar military waged a brutal crackdown on the stateless Muslim minority in western Rakhine state, leading to an exodus of more than 740,000 Rohingya to neighbouring Bangladesh. The region remains riven by religious and ethnic conflict. The Rohingya who stayed remain confined in squalid camps or villages with no freedom of movement. Despite a 2017 pact signed by the two countries, the first repatriation efforts have failed, with virtually no Rohingya agreeing to return without guarantees of safety and citizenship. A fresh push was to begin Thursday, with both governments vowing to repatriate nearly 3,500 Rohingya, but this again fell flat when no one turned up for buses intended to ferry them across the border. Myanmar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs continued the blame game on Friday. "Smooth repatriation for the displaced persons would require the adherence to the bilateral agreement," the state-run New Light of Myanmar said. The ministry put the onus on Bangladesh for failing to distribute the correct paperwork, so-called "verification forms" to potential returnees a controversial form of ID that falls short of granting Rohingya citizenship. "This procedure was not adhered to," it said, adding Bangladesh had also "ignored" a request to expedite the return of more than 400 Hindu refugees. The ministry confirmed China and Japan had facilitated the repatriation, and it had been the Chinese government that informed them earlier this month of Bangladesh's intent to re-start the process. Dhaka is eager for the Rohingya's return, with its resources severely strained by nearly a million refugees living in camps. Thursday's no-show by the refugees was "very disappointing" for Bangladesh, said foreign minister AK Abdul Momen. He added the Rohingya were taking the country "hostage" by insisting on their demands for citizenship. But rights groups warn that conditions are not right for repatriation, and UN investigators say the 2017 violence warrants the prosecution of top generals for "genocide". Any Rohingya returning to Myanmar "will be going back into a situation of persecution", Christopher Sidoti, a UN fact-finding team member, told this week. The Myanmar military is also currently locked in fierce fighting with the Arakan Army, a group claiming to fight for autonomy for the ethnic Rakhine people.

Myanmar blames Rohingya repatriation failure on Bangladesh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-abe-unlikely-to-meet-south-koreas-moon-at-un-in-september-source-239155">Japan</a> on Tuesday offered to play a role of mediator between Bangladesh and Myanmar to ensure peaceful and smooth repatriation of Rohingya people to their place of origin in Rakhine State.

The said offer was proposed during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and his Japanese counterpart Tara Kono here on Tuesday.

At a joint press conference following the bilateral, the two diplomats stressed on the need for necessary steps to be taken by the Myanmar government to create an environment conducive to the return of the Rohingyas, reported Dhaka Tribune.

Kono, who is on a three-day official visit to Bangladesh, visited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-delegation-holds-repatriation-talks-with-rohingya-in-bangladesh-238936">Rohingya settlements</a> in Cox`s Bazar earlier in the day and talked to many people living there to understand their situation first hand.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Law Minister Anisul Huq on Tuesday told the United Nations (UN) that the flow of Rohingyas into Bangladesh, although low, continues still.

More than 700,000 Rohingya were forced to flee the northern Rakhine in western Myanmar following a brutal military crackdown in 2017. The United Nations said that the offensive against the ethnic group included mass killings and gang rapes executed with "genocidal intent".

Followingly, the minorities took shelter in three dozen camps in Bangladesh`s Cox`s Bazar, pushing the number of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh to above 1.2 million. Many still fear for their safety if they return to Myanmar where the Muslim minority has faced decades of repression.

It may be noted that Bangladesh and Myanmar had signed a repatriation deal in November 2017, but so far virtually no Rohingya have volunteered to return. Bangladesh has said it will not force any Rohingya to leave the country.

On Saturday, a 15-member delegation of Myanmar government officials visited Cox`s Bazar and held repatriation talks with the Muslim community.

Last November, a move to start the repatriation process fell through after none of the Rohingya agreed to return to Myanmar. It followed a visit to the camps in October last year by a Myanmar delegation.

Japan on Tuesday offered to play a role of mediator between Bangladesh and Myanmar to ensure peaceful and smooth repatriation of Rohingya people to their place of origin in Rakhine State.

Japan on Tuesday offered to play a role of mediator between Bangladesh and Myanmar to ensure peaceful and smooth repatriation of Rohingya people to their place of origin in Rakhine State. The said offer was proposed during a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and his Japanese counterpart Tara Kono here on Tuesday. At a joint press conference following the bilateral, the two diplomats stressed on the need for necessary steps to be taken by the Myanmar government to create an environment conducive to the return of the Rohingyas, reported Dhaka Tribune. Kono, who is on a three-day official visit to Bangladesh, visited Rohingya settlements in Cox`s Bazar earlier in the day and talked to many people living there to understand their situation first hand. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Law Minister Anisul Huq on Tuesday told the United Nations (UN) that the flow of Rohingyas into Bangladesh, although low, continues still. More than 700,000 Rohingya were forced to flee the northern Rakhine in western Myanmar following a brutal military crackdown in 2017. The United Nations said that the offensive against the ethnic group included mass killings and gang rapes executed with "genocidal intent". Followingly, the minorities took shelter in three dozen camps in Bangladesh`s Cox`s Bazar, pushing the number of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh to above 1.2 million. Many still fear for their safety if they return to Myanmar where the Muslim minority has faced decades of repression. It may be noted that Bangladesh and Myanmar had signed a repatriation deal in November 2017, but so far virtually no Rohingya have volunteered to return. Bangladesh has said it will not force any Rohingya to leave the country. On Saturday, a 15-member delegation of Myanmar government officials visited Cox`s Bazar and held repatriation talks with the Muslim community. Last November, a move to start the repatriation process fell through after none of the Rohingya agreed to return to Myanmar. It followed a visit to the camps in October last year by a Myanmar delegation.

Rohingya crisis: Japan offers to play mediator between Bangladesh and Myanmar

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-police-rescue-dozens-of-rohingya-being-trafficked-to-malaysia-218629&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwik1LqLlaDiAhVt63MBHRnZBiMQFjAEegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw25m7a90_VHZuksvA79G65o">Bangladesh authorities</a> have launched a crackdown on suspected people-smugglers masquerading as "travel agents" after dozens of Bangladeshis drowned while trying to cross the Mediterranean into Europe, officials said Thursday.

About 60 people died last week when a boat full of would-be migrants capsized while trying to cross from Libya to Italy, in a case that has put the spotlight on the desperate struggle of young unemployed Bangladeshis to find work abroad.

Fourteen Bangladeshis were among 16 people rescued by Tunisian fishermen, while Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said 39 Bangladeshis were unaccounted for.

Families of those who died said the so-called "travel agents" took money from youths in exchange for a passage to Libya and the promise of a sea crossing to Europe.

Authorities sealed off 23 travel agencies in northeastern Sylhet district after it was found many were working for international trafficking networks, Momen said.

"We will take stern action against these agents," he told reporters.

Five mobile courts set up on the back of trucks ordered jail terms for nine suspected traffickers and another 29 were fined, said Sylhet government administrator Kazi Emdadul Islam.

Magistrate Nasirullah Khan said the crackdown will continue against the "greedy and illegal travel agents" who prey on unemployed young men.

"We want to ensure no mother would ever lose her child again," he said.

Tens of thousands of young Bangladeshi men have attempted the perilous Mediterranean crossing in recent years, and the number of traffickers catering to them has mushroomed.

While the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-police-arrests-poet-for-hurting-religious-sentiments-218789&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx5CglaDiAhXJvI8KHaUgDmcQFjAIegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw09zKOHJVAqnVMyKyx7xOiS">Bangladesh </a>economy has grown at an annual clip of 6-7 per cent through the decade, there are still not enough jobs and many young men try to reach Europe and North America on death-defying illegal routes.

Growing unemployment is fuelling desperation to escape, said Professor Jalal Uddin Sikder, a migration expert at the University of Liberal Arts in Dhaka.

"Low paid jobs are available but these young men want better-paid jobs in the West," he told AFP.

"But many do not survive the long, tiring journey through the desert and across the seas, while some get sold as slaves even before they reach the Libyan coast", the&nbsp;Professor added.

Bangladesh authorities have launched a crackdown on suspected people-smugglers masquerading as "travel agents" after dozens of Bangladeshis drowned while trying to cross the Mediterranean into Europe, officials said Thursday.

Bangladesh authorities have launched a crackdown on suspected people-smugglers masquerading as "travel agents" after dozens of Bangladeshis drowned while trying to cross the Mediterranean into Europe, officials said Thursday. About 60 people died last week when a boat full of would-be migrants capsized while trying to cross from Libya to Italy, in a case that has put the spotlight on the desperate struggle of young unemployed Bangladeshis to find work abroad. Fourteen Bangladeshis were among 16 people rescued by Tunisian fishermen, while Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said 39 Bangladeshis were unaccounted for. Families of those who died said the so-called "travel agents" took money from youths in exchange for a passage to Libya and the promise of a sea crossing to Europe. Authorities sealed off 23 travel agencies in northeastern Sylhet district after it was found many were working for international trafficking networks, Momen said. "We will take stern action against these agents," he told reporters. Five mobile courts set up on the back of trucks ordered jail terms for nine suspected traffickers and another 29 were fined, said Sylhet government administrator Kazi Emdadul Islam. Magistrate Nasirullah Khan said the crackdown will continue against the "greedy and illegal travel agents" who prey on unemployed young men. "We want to ensure no mother would ever lose her child again," he said. Tens of thousands of young Bangladeshi men have attempted the perilous Mediterranean crossing in recent years, and the number of traffickers catering to them has mushroomed. While the Bangladesh economy has grown at an annual clip of 6-7 per cent through the decade, there are still not enough jobs and many young men try to reach Europe and North America on death-defying illegal routes. Growing unemployment is fuelling desperation to escape, said Professor Jalal Uddin Sikder, a migration expert at the University of Liberal Arts in Dhaka. "Low paid jobs are available but these young men want better-paid jobs in the West," he told AFP. "But many do not survive the long, tiring journey through the desert and across the seas, while some get sold as slaves even before they reach the Libyan coast", the Professor added.

Bangladesh launches trafficker crackdown after Mediterranean deaths

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-fears-lingering-rohingya-crisis-may-trigger-radicalism-196630">Bangladesh </a>on Tuesday said it had sought help from the United States in pressuring the government of Myanmar into offering safeguards for the return of the thousands of Rohingya refugees who have fled the country since Aug. 2017.

Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen sought assistance from the US during a meeting on Monday with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington, the government of Bangladesh said in a statement released on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Momen discussed the importance of the "repatriation of the Rohingyas and creation of credible international pressure on Myanmar in that respect," the statement said.

According to the statement, Pompeo reiterated that the US "would stand beside Bangladesh (both politically and financially) in finding a permanent solution to the Rohingya crisis."

"It is the responsibility of the Myanmar government and military to create a conducive environment so that the Rohingyas feel safe to return home," he added.

Momen told Pompeo about Dhaka's plans to transfer a group of Rohingyas to the uninhabited Bhashanchar island in the Bay of Bengal, which has been prepared to host 100,000 refugees from the overcrowded camps in the Cox's Bazar district in southeastern Bangladesh.

More than 738,000 Rohingya refugees had arrived in the camps since the beginning of the crisis on Aug. 25, 2017, following a wave of violence and persecution against the minority group that has been described by the United Nations as attempted ethnic cleansing.

Most of the refugees of the majority-Muslim community live in harsh conditions in the Kutupalong camp – located close to the border between Bangladesh and Myanmar – which has become the biggest refugee camp in the world.

Although Bangladesh and Myanmar signed an agreement on Nov. 23, 2017, to begin returning Rohingyas, until now the repatriation attempts have failed due to the lack of conditions necessary for a safe and voluntary return of the refugees.

Organizations working to protect civil rights of the Rohingyas informed last week that 20 civilians were killed and 50 were injured in an airstrike carried out by the armed forces in the state of Rakhine (western Myanmar).

Bangladesh on Tuesday said it had sought help from the United States in pressuring the government of Myanmar into offering safeguards for the return of the thousands of Rohingya refugees who have fled the country since Aug.

Bangladesh on Tuesday said it had sought help from the United States in pressuring the government of Myanmar into offering safeguards for the return of the thousands of Rohingya refugees who have fled the country since Aug. 2017. Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen sought assistance from the US during a meeting on Monday with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington, the government of Bangladesh said in a statement released on Tuesday. During the meeting, Momen discussed the importance of the "repatriation of the Rohingyas and creation of credible international pressure on Myanmar in that respect," the statement said. According to the statement, Pompeo reiterated that the US "would stand beside Bangladesh (both politically and financially) in finding a permanent solution to the Rohingya crisis." "It is the responsibility of the Myanmar government and military to create a conducive environment so that the Rohingyas feel safe to return home," he added. Momen told Pompeo about Dhaka's plans to transfer a group of Rohingyas to the uninhabited Bhashanchar island in the Bay of Bengal, which has been prepared to host 100,000 refugees from the overcrowded camps in the Cox's Bazar district in southeastern Bangladesh. More than 738,000 Rohingya refugees had arrived in the camps since the beginning of the crisis on Aug. 25, 2017, following a wave of violence and persecution against the minority group that has been described by the United Nations as attempted ethnic cleansing. Most of the refugees of the majority-Muslim community live in harsh conditions in the Kutupalong camp – located close to the border between Bangladesh and Myanmar – which has become the biggest refugee camp in the world. Although Bangladesh and Myanmar signed an agreement on Nov. 23, 2017, to begin returning Rohingyas, until now the repatriation attempts have failed due to the lack of conditions necessary for a safe and voluntary return of the refugees. Organizations working to protect civil rights of the Rohingyas informed last week that 20 civilians were killed and 50 were injured in an airstrike carried out by the armed forces in the state of Rakhine (western Myanmar).

Bangladesh seeks US help for Rohingyas' return to Myanmar

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border.

The Dhaka Tribune quoted Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen while briefing the media at the VIP lounge of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport upon his return from India on Saturday, as saying, “I am always hopeful. India and Bangladesh have solved many big problems. Based on this hope we have developed a sense of confidence and sense of mutual trust. I believe in that. And, they have assured us and I very much believe in that.”

“Not only Teesta; we have many rivers. Why are we only talking about this river? 54 (common) rivers are in our discussions. Slowly, we’ll solve (issues related to) all of them. In terms of a solution, we have advanced a lot. Time is passing, but it will be done. There is no cause for worry,” he added.

The Foreign Minister, however, did not confirm any specific date for the Teesta agreement, stating that Bangladesh is only hopeful that the two neighbouring countries would successfully sign the deal very soon.

“I cannot give any date. We are only hoping,” Momen said.

“We discussed all the common rivers, including Teesta, and we are hopeful,” he told another questioner,” the Foreign Minister added.

Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina of Bangladesh that the waters of the River would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution on the issue.

India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new.

The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim.

It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal.

The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply.

While India claims a share of 55 per cent.

The dispute would take back to the time when Independent India was formed which reduced most of its northern rivers into 'shared water bodies.'&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border.

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border. The Dhaka Tribune quoted Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen while briefing the media at the VIP lounge of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport upon his return from India on Saturday, as saying, “I am always hopeful. India and Bangladesh have solved many big problems. Based on this hope we have developed a sense of confidence and sense of mutual trust. I believe in that. And, they have assured us and I very much believe in that.” “Not only Teesta; we have many rivers. Why are we only talking about this river? 54 (common) rivers are in our discussions. Slowly, we’ll solve (issues related to) all of them. In terms of a solution, we have advanced a lot. Time is passing, but it will be done. There is no cause for worry,” he added. The Foreign Minister, however, did not confirm any specific date for the Teesta agreement, stating that Bangladesh is only hopeful that the two neighbouring countries would successfully sign the deal very soon. “I cannot give any date. We are only hoping,” Momen said. “We discussed all the common rivers, including Teesta, and we are hopeful,” he told another questioner,” the Foreign Minister added. Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina of Bangladesh that the waters of the River would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution on the issue. India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new. The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim. It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal. The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply. While India claims a share of 55 per cent. The dispute would take back to the time when Independent India was formed which reduced most of its northern rivers into 'shared water bodies.'

Bangladesh hopeful on India's assurance over Teesta water-sharing issue

ak-abdul-momen

Ak Abdul Momen, News on Ak Abdul Momen, stories on Ak Abdul Momen, articles on Ak Abdul Momen, Ak Abdul Momen stories at Wion, Ak Abdul Momen news, Ak Abdul Momen latest news

ak abdul-momen