EU Envoy calls on Home Minister, discusses security cooperation

European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller paid a courtesy call on Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed. The meeting took place at the Home Ministry office in the Secretariat on Monday afternoon, April 13.

The meeting discussed police reform, security cooperation, migration management, judicial independence, anti-corruption strategies, trade cooperation and various issues of mutual interest.

Ambassador Miller said the European Union is a tested development partner of Bangladesh and is keen to further strengthen and expand cooperation during the current government's tenure.

On police reform, the home minister said Bangladesh is planning to form a police commission, and technical assistance could be sought from the EU through consultancy services. He also said the EU is interested in modernising Bangladesh Police through training, skill development and experience exchange.

On judicial independence, the ambassador said Bangladesh could benefit from the EU's long experience. The minister said the current government is firmly committed to ensuring full independence of the judiciary.

On anti-corruption strategies, the ambassador said Bangladesh needs a well-organised and robust anti-corruption policy, and the EU is ready to provide technical and strategic cooperation. The minister agreed and instructed officials to identify relevant areas quickly and maintain regular communication.

Additional Secretary Dr Ziauddin Ahmed, Joint Secretary Rebecca Khan of the Home Ministry and members of the EU delegation were present at the meeting.