In a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni underscored the need for legal migration of Bangladeshi workers. 

"Bangladeshi workers are doing very good work here. They have enough credibility. I don't want illegal workers," she was quoted as saying.

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen briefed reporters after the meeting.

On her arrival at the Italian Prime Minister's office 'Palazzo Chigi', Sheikh Hasina was received by her Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni. Later, the Bangladesh Premier was given a guard of honour there.

They discussed many issues, including undocumented Bangladeshi expatriates, bilateral trade and business, in the meeting.

Giorgia Meloni said they don't want illegal Bangladeshis to stay in Italy as the local people don't want it.

"They opened the door for Bangladesh to send workforce in legal ways," said Momen.

The Bangladesh Premier said both documented and undocumented Bangladeshis are working for the welfare of the two countries.

But, she said, Bangladesh also discourages illegal migration. "I maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal migration," she said.
The Bangladesh side asked Italian authorities to stop Bangladeshis who migrate to Italy through illegal channels from other countries.

Sheikh Hasina asked Italy to ease the import process of leather goods from Bangladesh.

In response, the Italian side showed enough interest in this regard.

PM Sheikh Hasina thanked Italy for extending support to Bangladesh on the Rohingya issue.

BDST: 0916 HRS, JULY 26, 2023
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