DHAKA: The Government has decided to suspend sending workers to Iraq till confirmation of safe and secure environment there as the country is currently facing volatile situation. 

The matter was disclosed by a press release of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Saturday.

The release says, the Government of Bangladesh is closely observing the evolving situation in Iraq. The Ministry is in close touch with Bangladesh Embassy in Baghdad. 

According to latest reports, all expatriate Bangladesh nationals in Iraq are safe and they have been advised to remain alert and avoid conflict zones. It is estimated that over 14,000 Bangladesh nationals are working in that country, mostly in the construction sector. A few thousands more Bangladesh nationals are waiting to go to Iraq for jobs. 

Bangladesh hopes that the Government of Iraq, with the support of international community, would be able to contain the situation there with an inclusive political dialogue with all ethnic groups.

BDST: 1915 HRS, JUNE 14, 2014