The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Benghazi welcomed a diplomatic delegation from the Embassy of Bangladesh on Thursday. The visit reflects growing coordination between the two countries to address migration challenges and improve support for the Bangladeshi community in Libya.
The meeting focused on the situation of irregular Bangladeshi migrants currently held at the Qanfouda Detention Center in Benghazi. Discussions centered on efforts to facilitate their voluntary return to Bangladesh, in cooperation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Officials from both sides emphasized the need to expedite the issuance of travel documents and coordinate logistics for repatriation.
Libyan representatives expressed their readiness to work closely with the Bangladeshi Embassy and relevant international partners to ensure the process is carried out efficiently, humanely, and in accordance with international standards.
The two sides also explored the possibility of establishing an official association for the Bangladeshi community in Libya. This proposal is seen as a preliminary step toward opening a Bangladeshi consulate in Benghazi, which would enhance consular services and provide closer support to Bangladeshi nationals residing in eastern Libya.
Speaking at the meeting, Mohammad Rasel Miah, a representative of the Bangladeshi Embassy, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and labor cooperation with Libya. He emphasized the importance of regularizing the status of Bangladeshi workers and ensuring that future labor migration is well-organized and compliant with legal frameworks.
Libyan officials welcomed the initiative and highlighted the value of structured diplomatic engagement in managing labor flows, addressing irregular migration, and improving bilateral relations.