Italy has expressed its interest in hiring more workers from Bangladesh and is taking steps to ensure safe and legal immigration paths for its citizens. Matteo Piantedosi the visiting Italian Minister of the Interior met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guesthouse Jamuna in Dhaka on Monday.
During the meeting, they discussed various issues of mutual interest, including the safe and legal migration of Bangladeshis, combating human trafficking, and fostering trade and investment ties between the two countries.
Piantedosi informed the Chief Adviser that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni may visit Bangladesh before September to “renew and revitalize” bilateral cooperation between Rome and Dhaka. He expressed satisfaction with the large Bangladeshi community living in Italy, noting that they are hardworking, young, and well-integrated into Italian society. “We need more such citizens from Bangladesh,” he added.
Read More: Private Universities Scandal: UGC to Crack Down on 16 Troubled Institutions Over Shocking Violations
The Minister also emphasized the issue of illegal migration, stating, “We want Bangladeshis to come through legal channels, as many attempt dangerous and illegal routes to Italy. Which is risky.” He acknowledged that irregular migration by sea has become a serious problem for Italy and sought Bangladesh’s cooperation in tackling illegal immigration and organized crime.
Chief Adviser Professor Yunus responded positively stating that Bangladesh is eager to work with Italy to combat illegal migration and human trafficking. He highlighted that the Bangladeshis living in Italy are grateful to the host country and appreciate the respect and dignity with which they are treated.
Professor Yunus also pointed out that some international groups lure Bangladeshis into attempting illegal journeys. “These individuals are the source of the problem,” he said. He reiterated that migrants are the real victims in this situation, not the human traffickers who benefit from their suffering.
Reflecting on his meeting with the Italian Prime Minister last September during the UN General Assembly in New York, Professor Yunus assured that both countries would work closely together to address these issues.
Piantedosi concluded by saying that italy is eager to enhance its partnership with Bangladesh, not only in migration management but also in trade, investment, and community development, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
Source: Jugantor
