The government is set to launch a modern apartment-based housing project exclusively for Bangladeshi expatriates, with Sylhet likely to serve as its starting point, Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury announced on Saturday.

He made the announcement while addressing a seminar titled "Globalising Sylhet" held at the Grand Sylhet Hotel in Sylhet, a ministry press release said.

Delivering the keynote address as chief guest, the minister said the government has decided to move away from plot-based housing schemes as arable land continues to shrink across the country. 

In its place, a modern apartment complex equipped with full civic amenities will be developed, with allocation reserved exclusively for non-resident Bangladeshis. He noted that the matter has already been discussed with the Prime Minister, and Sylhet has been identified as the preferred location to pilot the initiative.

Underlining the importance of keeping the next generation of expatriates connected to their homeland, the minister said, "We must create an environment where our future generations do not forget their motherland. When they come home, they will invest here, and family bonds will grow stronger."

'Probashi Card' within the next two months

The minister also announced that a special 'Probashi Card', carrying exclusive benefits for expatriates, will be issued within the next two months.

Modernisation of Sylhet Airport

On the modernisation of Sylhet's Osmani International Airport, the minister said construction of a dedicated lounge for expatriates is already underway. 

The authorities are also setting up a medical unit staffed with doctors and nurses in the immigration area to ensure healthcare services. Permanent ambulances will be stationed at the airport for emergency evacuation of critically ill passengers. 

He further informed that the government has already introduced a scheme to repatriate the bodies of Bangladeshis who die abroad, free of charge, with arrangements to deliver them to their homes.

Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury and Police Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, among others, were present at the seminar.