Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury has said that a special ‘Probashi Card’ offering various benefits for migrant Bangladeshis will be introduced within the next two months.
He made the remarks at a seminar titled “Globalizing Sylhet”, held at the Hotel Grand Sylhet on Saturday, where he highlighted the vital role of remittances and investments in the region’s development and global integration.
The minister praised the contributions of expatriates to Sylhet’s economic growth and assured them of the government’s continued support. He said the government is planning special housing and investment facilitation projects to make expatriate investments safer and more accessible.
Noting the scarcity of land in the country, he said the government is shifting focus from plot-based housing to modern apartment-based projects equipped with civic amenities. He added that discussions have already been held with the prime minister, and such a project—exclusively for expatriates—could begin in Sylhet.
Chowdhury also stressed the importance of engaging the next generation of expatriates with their homeland, saying such initiatives would encourage them to invest in Bangladesh and strengthen family and cultural ties.
Regarding Osmani International Airport in Sylhet, the minister said work has already begun on constructing a dedicated lounge for expatriates. Plans are also underway to introduce a medical unit at the immigration area with doctors, nurses, and necessary facilities.
He added that a permanent ambulance service will be stationed at the airport to ensure quick medical assistance for critically ill expatriates. Additionally, the government has introduced a system to repatriate the bodies of deceased expatriates free of cost and deliver them to their homes.
Among others, Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Quiyum Chowdhury and Police Commissioner Abdul Quddus Chowdhury were present at the seminar.
