Bangladesh envoy meets Maldivian minister to discuss social welfare cooperation

The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the Maldives, Dr Md Nazmul Islam, paid a courtesy call on the Maldivian Minister of Social and Family Development yesterday (14 January), Dr Aishath Shiham, to discuss cooperation in social welfare, family development, and community wellbeing.

The meeting focused on areas of mutual interest, including child welfare, family support services, and protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups.

During the discussion, the Maldivian minister outlined the mandates and activities of her ministry, such as services for children with special needs, protection and rehabilitation of victims of child abuse, and programmes addressing social vulnerabilities within families.

She highlighted ongoing social and family-related challenges in the Maldives and stressed the need for bilateral and multilateral cooperation to address these issues.

The minister also referred to the role of Bangladeshi migrant workers in the Maldives and said the ministry provides support to migrant families and children, including Bangladeshi nationals, when required.

She noted the growing number of marriages between Bangladeshi and Maldivian citizens, describing it as a reflection of closer people-to-people ties between the two countries.

High Commissioner Dr Md Nazmul Islam expressed appreciation for the Maldivian government's support towards Bangladeshi expatriates and their families.

He reiterated Bangladesh's willingness to work with Maldivian authorities on issues related to social cohesion, family wellbeing, and the protection of vulnerable groups.

Both sides agreed to explore joint initiatives, including seminars, awareness programmes, and collaborative projects on family welfare, child protection, migrant wellbeing, and social development.

The meeting ended with a commitment to continue cooperation in social and family development between Bangladesh and the Maldives.