
ছবি: Collected photo
The All European Bangladesh Association (AYEBA), a prominent community organization representing Bangladeshi expatriates across Europe, celebrated its 12th anniversary with a grand event at its headquarters in Paris. The occasion included a joyous cake-cutting ceremony followed by a discussion where leaders presented a seven-point demand to Bangladesh's interim government, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring the rights and privileges of expatriates.
During the discussion, the speakers stressed the importance of facilitating the acquisition of visas for all European Union countries directly from Dhaka. They also advocated for the implementation of a comprehensive voter ID program, including the distribution of national identity cards to expatriates. AYEBA leaders called for the allocation of parliamentary seats for expatriates in the national legislature and the establishment of their representation in key ministries, such as the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.
Improving the quality of services provided by Bangladeshi missions and consulates abroad was another crucial demand. Additionally, the organization requested that dual citizens be granted the opportunity to participate in elections. They urged the government to initiate official measures to legalize irregular migrants abroad and to reduce migration costs. AYEBA leaders also pressed for dismantling the alleged ticket syndicate of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, ensuring fair ticket pricing.
AYEBA President Zainul Abedin presided over the event, with Secretary General Kazi Enayet Ullah Inu conducting the program. Key figures from the organization, including Vice Presidents Fakrul Akam Selim, Ahmed Firoz, and Rana Taslim Uddin, participated in the event. Other notable attendees included Executive Committee members T.M. Reza, Subrata Bhattacharya Shubho, Emdadul Haque Swapan, Kamal Mia, Tapas Barua Ripon, Azhar Kabir Babu, Azharul Haque Ferdous, and Nurul Amin. Tanbir Siddiqui, the Bangladesh Coordinator, was also present alongside representatives from various European countries.
The association underscored its belief that addressing these demands would significantly enhance the welfare of expatriates and strengthen their connection to their homeland. AYEBA urged the interim government to take decisive steps to address these issues, which directly impact millions of Bangladeshi expatriates and their contributions to the nation.
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