News Flash
DHAKA, Apr 12, 2026 (BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, MP, has emphasized the need to encourage expatriates to send remittances through formal banking channels, describing remittance inflow as a key driving force of the national economy.
“We must motivate expatriates so that their hard-earned income reaches the country through legal means,” said.
He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the opening session of the event titled “Global Conference Series 2026: Branding Bangladesh beyond Bangladesh", held at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka today.
The event was organized by the Center for Non-Resident Bangladeshis.
The minister said it is crucial to ensure that remittances are not sent through informal or illegal channels, but instead flow regularly through the banking system.
He also called on relevant authorities to ensure adequate protection for expatriates, so they do not face harassment while sending money and can maintain confidence in the banking system.
He stressed the importance of introducing further incentives to encourage remittance inflows through official channels.
Highlighting current economic challenges, the minister noted that sources of foreign currency earnings are under pressure.
“There is no alternative to increasing remittance inflow through legal channels to strengthen the country’s foreign exchange reserves,” he added.
Swapon further emphasized the need to enhance the skills of the NRB diaspora and ensure that their earnings are invested in the country’s development through proper channels.
He also praised initiatives that recognize and reward bank officials contributing to remittance inflow.
The minister urged stakeholders to explore new sources of remittance and expand into emerging labour markets such as the Balkan region and Eastern Europe, rather than relying solely on traditional destinations.
Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, MP, said Bangladesh has many success stories that are not effectively communicated globally.
She highlighted key national milestones such as the Language Movement of 1952 and the Bangladesh Liberation War as important elements of the country’s global brand.
Shama also underscored the importance of ensuring the safety and welfare of the expatriate workers, noting that Bangladesh’s foreign policy prioritizes national interest and that diplomatic missions abroad are working round the clock to support expatriates.
The State Minister said regarding the protection of remittance warriors working abroad, “Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman laid the foundation of manpower export and remittance by sending workers to Saudi Arabia for the first time. The present government has taken initiatives to further modernize and strengthen that legacy.”
She added, “Our foreign policy is ‘Bangladesh First’. Our missions abroad are working round the clock to ensure services for expatriate Bangladeshis and to safeguard their rights and security.”
The State Minister further said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare are working in coordination to safely repatriate Bangladeshi expatriates from war-affected countries, including Lebanon.
State Minister for Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Md. Nurul Hoque, MP, also spoke on the occasion.
The event, chaired by M S Sekil Chowdhury, Chairperson of the Center for Non-Resident Bangladeshis, was attended also by senior representatives from the banking sectors that have made significant contributions to remittance collection.
