Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman today sought detailed updates on the welfare of Bangladeshi nationals living in Middle Eastern countries amid escalating regional tensions.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman met the prime minister at the Secretariat in the morning to brief him on the latest developments. PM’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir was also present during the discussion.

“In light of the incidents in Iran, the prime minister inquired about the situation of Bangladeshis in Middle Eastern countries and provided necessary instructions”, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman told reporters.

The meeting extensively covered the impact of widespread flight cancellations to and from the Middle East. Ruman said that many Middle East-bound flights have been suspended due to the ongoing situation, and various related issues were discussed.

PM is closely monitoring the situation at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, particularly regarding passengers stranded due to flight disruptions. Following his directives, the civil aviation minister and the state minister are working on the matter. The state minister has been present at the airport since morning to oversee arrangements.

Expatriates’ welfare minister has also been coordinating support measures for affected passengers and overseas Bangladeshis. The prime minister reached the Secretariat at 9:10am to attend office.

Later in the day, Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu met him as part of the official schedule. According to the additional press secretary, the prime minister discussed preparedness in view of recent earthquake concerns and instructed officials to formulate a comprehensive disaster response plan.

After the meeting, Dulu told reporters that the prime minister had directed authorities to prepare 1 lakh volunteers in Dhaka to strengthen post-earthquake disaster management efforts.