APR 21 (V7N) - Bangladesh's Home Minister, Salahuddin Ahmed, underscored the nation's strong partnership with Italy, recognizing it as a key development partner within the European Union. During a meeting with Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro in Dhaka, the minister highlighted the growing areas of collaboration, particularly in ensuring safe migration and enhancing economic cooperation.

Salahuddin also acknowledged the significant contributions of Bangladeshis in Italy, especially through remittances, which play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations. He reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to further deepening its ties with Italy in the future.

Ambassador Alessandro expressed Italy's interest in continuing to expand bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas related to safe migration and the prevention of illegal migration. He announced a new migration policy set to take effect in Italy from June, aimed at creating safer migration pathways and expediting the repatriation process for irregular migrants.

The ambassador also highlighted the ongoing work of the Joint Working Group on safe migration, labor market cooperation, and skilled workforce mobility, with the next meeting scheduled to take place in Italy.

As part of the diplomatic exchange, Ambassador Alessandro presented a congratulatory letter from Italy's Interior Minister and extended an invitation for Minister Salahuddin to visit Italy, which was accepted with plans for a visit later this year.

Discussions at the meeting also focused on enhancing law enforcement, security cooperation, and fostering trade and investment between the two countries. Key officials from both sides were present, including Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed, Additional Secretary (Political), Rebeka Khan, Joint Secretary (Political-1), and Begum Minara Nazmin, Deputy Secretary (Political-1).

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