Bangladesh seeks to repatriate nationals stranded in Russia

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov assures Moscow’s support in the process

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has requested his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to facilitate the repatriation of Bangladeshis who are stranded in Russia.

The request was made during a meeting between the two foreign ministers in Moscow on Monday, according to the foreign ministry.

Lavrov has assured his government’s full consideration of the matter, the ministry said in a statement.

Reports have emerged that some Bangladeshi youths were sent to Russia under the promise of work and were later forced to take part in Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

On the same day in parliament, State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Hoque Nur said 30 workers were reportedly involved in the military campaign after being taken to Russia on the promise of jobs.

“Their families informed us about it. We have immediately suspended the licences of three recruiting agencies. Legal action against them is under way,” he said.

The foreign ministry, however, did not specify which Bangladeshis the repatriation request concerned in its media statement.

Khalilur travelled to Moscow on Sunday for a three-day visit.

This is his first bilateral visit to Russia after being elected president of the United Nations General Assembly.