Solving expatriates’ problems top priority: Minister Ariful
Published: 20 February 2026, 2:25:08
Minister of Labour and Employment and Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Ariful Haque Chowdhury on Thursday said that addressing the problems faced by expatriates will be his top priority.
Speaking to reporters at Sylhet Osmani International Airport in the afternoon after arriving in the city for the first time since taking oath as a minister, he said he had already begun identifying key issues affecting migrant workers.
“Immediately after assuming responsibility, I spoke to expatriates at Shahjalal International Airport and tried to understand their various problems. Steps will be taken accordingly, and top priority will be given to resolving those issues,” he said.
The minister also stressed that strict vigilance would be maintained to prevent aspiring overseas workers from falling victim to fraud. “Necessary measures will be taken to identify the problems and resolve them effectively,” he added.
Emphasizing unity and cooperation, Ariful said he harbors no ill will toward anyone and wants to move the country forward by taking everyone along. “We have adopted a 180-day action plan. All members of parliament will sit together to discuss various issues, including long-standing problems such as roads and aviation,” he said.
He noted that time is limited and that the next five years would pass quickly. “We must begin working for our respective areas from now on. Pray that we can serve with honesty and integrity,” he urged.
Referring to his appointment, the minister said the people of his constituency had elected him and sent him to parliament, and that party chief and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had included him in the cabinet as a gift to the people of Sylhet.
Upon his arrival in Sylhet at around 2:30 pm, Ariful was welcomed at the airport by administrative officials and a large number of party leaders and activists. This marks his first district visit since assuming office.
On Friday, he will visit the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal and offer Friday prayers. Later in the afternoon, he will attend an Iftar Mahfil organised by the South Surma BNP.
