Bangladesh and the United Kingdom have agreed on a new cooperation framework to combat organised immigration crime, prevent fraudulent migration, and protect vulnerable people from exploitation by criminal networks.

The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in identifying, disrupting, and tackling organised immigration crime, including document and visa fraud and other criminal activities associated with irregular migration, said a British High Commission press release issued here today.

Under the framework, the two countries will enhance information sharing and operational coordination to identify and address criminal networks involved in exploiting migrants through fraudulent schemes.

The agreement also provides for regular bilateral engagements to review progress, exchange information, and discuss cases of mutual interest.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said the new arrangement reflected the longstanding partnership between Dhaka and London and their shared commitment to combating immigration-related criminal activities.

"Bangladesh and the United Kingdom enjoy a strong and enduring partnership built on mutual respect and close people-to-people ties," she said.

"This agreement demonstrates our shared determination to protect citizens from organised criminal groups that seek to exploit migration for financial gain," the British envoy added.

Cooke said enhanced bilateral cooperation would help prevent migration-related fraud, exploitation, and human trafficking while promoting safe and lawful migration.

"Through closer cooperation, both countries will work together to address organised immigration crime, support lawful migration, and strengthen efforts to protect individuals and families from fraud, exploitation, and trafficking," she said.

The new framework reflects the two countries' shared commitment to protecting Bangladeshi citizens from criminal networks that profit from unsafe and irregular migration routes.

It is also expected to strengthen cooperation between the relevant authorities of the two countries in addressing cross-border immigration crimes and safeguarding potential migrants from exploitation.