FM to labour councilors: Serve expats, stay away from money

GBNEWS24 DESK//

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen has urged the officials at the labour wing of Bangladesh missions abroad to serve the expatriates with commitment, dedication and honesty refraining from any bad things like collecting money that might be disgraceful for the country and all. “We’re very hard on those issues. I want everyone to remain aware of it,” he said urging all to stay away from it (getting involved in collecting money) as they hear such bad news. The Foreign Minister made the remarks at a certificate distribution ceremony on “Orientation Course for Counsellor/First Secretary (Labour)’ designate to Bangladesh missions abroad. They will join Bangladesh missions in Tripoli (Libya), Singapore, Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Doha (Qatar), Cairo (Egypt), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Athens (Greece), Milan (Italy), Geneva (Switzerland), Moscow (Russia) and Karachi (Pakistan). Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Rector of the Foreign Service Academy Syed Masud Mahmood Khundoker, among others, spoke at the event held on Thursday evening, reports UNB. The Foreign Minister also warned the officials of difficulties that they might face in the case of such involvement saying even if they earn some money, they cannot take it with them as life is short. “Some people at times get involved because there’re easy money. They get involved in collecting money. We hear (such) bad news at times. In the long run, they bring disgrace to Bangladesh, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Missions abroad,” he said. Dr Momen said they (expatriates) may not give money but they will pray from their hearts. “That prayer will be a blessing. It’ll be so strong that you hope to have heaven.” Dr Momen recalled Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and said Bangabandhu loved his people. “People will remember you if you love people. If you can serve well, people will remember and honour you.” Dr Momen said he has no doubt that they will be able to achieve the goals keeping in mind “One country, one Mission.” “You’re young. You’ll be very creative. It’s us who can work together. All of you Bangladesh representatives abroad,” he said. Talking about economic diplomacy and public diplomacy, the Foreign Minister urged all to tell Bangladesh stories abroad as the country has done excellent over the last 12 years. “It’s so good.”