In a notable address, State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, Shafiqur Rahman Choudhury MP, has urged the UK government to ease visa regulations for Bangladeshi workers aspiring to join the hospitality and catering sectors in the UK.

Speaking at a prominent dialogue organized by the UK’s All-party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Bangladesh, Choudhury commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her visionary leadership, attributing Bangladesh's transformation into a prosperous nation to her guidance. He emphasized the need for continued efforts to enhance the welfare of Bangladeshis globally, including those residing in the UK.

Highlighting the evolving bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the UK over the past 15 years, Choudhury stressed the importance of further strengthening historic ties between the two nations. He pointed out the acute shortage of skilled staff faced by Bangladeshi restaurants in various UK cities, partly due to the UK's raised minimum annual salary requirement.

Choudhury appealed to the UK Government to reconsider the minimum salary threshold for hospitality sector workers, citing its infeasibility for many restaurant owners. Additionally, he proposed Bangladesh's potential to supply skilled construction and farm workers as seasonal employees in the UK.

Expressing hope for collaborative efforts between the Bangladesh and UK governments to create more job opportunities for Bangladeshi skilled workers, including those in the hospitality sector, Choudhury's call resonated with High Commissioner Saida Muna Tasneem's commitment to facilitating employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in the UK.

The dialogue, chaired by APPG on Bangladesh Chair Rushanara Ali MP, received accolades for its efforts to strengthen the bond between the British-Bangladeshi community and Bangladesh. The event, attended by high-ranking UK parliamentary officials and prominent members of the British-Bangladeshi community, underscored the significance of fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Prior to this dialogue, Choudhury participated in an event organized by the British Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the importance of economic cooperation between Bangladesh and the UK.