President calls on expatriates to play more active role in national development

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called upon expatriate Bangladeshis to play a more active role in the country's economic development and progress. He also urged Bangladeshi businessmen living abroad to invest in the country and work to attract foreign investment.

The President made these remarks during a courtesy meeting with a delegation of UK-based Bangladeshis at Bangabhaban on Thursday, September 3. The delegation, led by prominent UK businessman Kamal Uddin, met the President to convey greetings and congratulations on his election as President. In response to the President's call, delegation members expressed their interest in investing in Bangladesh.

During the meeting, the President recalled with gratitude the contributions of expatriate Bangladeshis living in the UK and other countries around the world in establishing justice, the anti-fascist movement and the struggle for restoring democracy. He praised their contributions to the country through finances, labour and intellect, and said the country and the nation would always remember these contributions with respect.

Delegation members sought the President's cooperation in increasing facilities for expatriates in various business and civic sectors, including airport harassment and voting rights. Assuring them that necessary steps would be taken to address their various problems, the President said the government has already started working to enhance facilities for expatriates.

The President said the expatriate card has been introduced to ensure comprehensive services for expatriates, and that the government is prioritising their welfare. He expressed optimism that the government would work to ensure more facilities for them in the future.

The President further said Bangladeshis living in various countries are working as representatives of the country. He therefore called upon expatriates to project a positive image of Bangladesh abroad. He also expressed gratitude to expatriate Bangladeshis for their important contribution to the country's economy through remittances.

The President's Military Secretary and Press Secretary were present during the meeting.