State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam, on Tuesday placed strong emphasis on tackling irregular migration and expanding skilled workforce opportunities, as she briefed journalists following the DC Conference.

Describing this year’s conference as particularly significant under a democratically elected government, the minister said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held “productive and practical” exchanges with district administrators on issues affecting people at the grassroots level.

She said that a major portion of the discussions centered on curbing illegal migration, which continues to expose many Bangladeshis to exploitation and life-threatening risks abroad.

The minister underscored the urgent need to dismantle human trafficking networks, commonly known as “dalal chokro,” which lure job seekers with false promises.

District Commissioners have been instructed to take a proactive role in raising awareness at the community level, ensuring that citizens, particularly from rural and vulnerable backgrounds, are not deceived into unsafe migration routes.

Aligning with the government’s broader employment strategy, the minister also highlighted the importance of promoting legal migration through skills development. She said efforts are underway to strengthen vocational training systems across districts.

DCs have been directed to improve the effectiveness of existing training institutes and, where needed, facilitate the establishment of new centers. The goal is to equip young people with certified skills so they can access safer, lawful employment opportunities abroad.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining close coordination with district officials. The minister emphasized an “open-door policy,” encouraging DCs to communicate freely with the ministry on emerging challenges and administrative needs.

Responding to questions about political developments in neighboring India, including West Bengal, the minister reiterated that such matters are internal to India. She affirmed that Bangladesh’s foreign policy remains firmly rooted in the “Bangladesh First” principle.

“Our approach does not change depending on political shifts elsewhere,” she said, adding that Bangladesh will continue engaging constructively with all stakeholders while safeguarding its national interests.