Dhaka seeks stronger cooperation with London for tracing, return of 'stolen' wealth
Minister West assured the foreign adviser of all possible cooperation in this regard
Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today (17 November) raised concerns over the illicit flow of Bangladesh's stolen wealth abroad, urging greater efforts from the United Kingdom to address the issue of asset recovery.
During a meeting with UK Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West, the adviser called for stronger cooperation with the UK to trace and return these assets to Bangladesh, a matter that remains high on the government's agenda.
Minister West assured the foreign adviser of all possible cooperation in this regard, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
They discussed major bilateral issues, ranging from the priorities of British and Bangladesh governments.
The foreign adviser thanked the UK government for its continued support to Bangladesh's interim government, acknowledging the UK's role in ensuring political stability and democratic progress.
Hossain emphasised that the interim government of Bangladesh is a reflection of the aspirations of the people, particularly the nation's youth, and sought support from the UK for the reform initiatives of the Bangladesh Government.
Under-Secretary West conveyed the warm greetings of British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
She reaffirmed the UK's commitment to strengthening ties with Bangladesh and underscored the UK Government's priorities on different areas including migration, maritime cooperation and cyber security.
Adviser Hossain sought the international community's support for the Rohingyas and said the only solution to this crisis lies in the safe and sustainable return of the Rohingyas to their homeland in Myanmar.
Under-Secretary West reiterated the UK's strong position to resolve the Rohingya crisis and stressed on the importance of continued humanitarian assistance to the Rohingyas.
Regarding the point-based immigration system, the foreign adviser called for the arrangement of mutual recognition of qualifications.
Both sides committed to carry forward the robust cooperation and further strengthen the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom.
British Minister West is scheduled to leave Dhaka today.