Bangladesh missions told to refer MPs’ meeting requests to foreign ministry

Bangladesh missions abroad have been told to channel visiting MPs’ requests for meetings and events through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka.

The directive covers requests to use mission premises or arrange engagements with government officials and private-sector representatives in host countries.

The foreign ministry conveyed the decision in a message sent to all Bangladesh ambassadors and high commissioners abroad on Sunday.

“It has been observed that the members of parliament often wish to visit Bangladesh missions abroad/request to use the chancery for meetings or to organise meetings/programmes with host government officials/private sector representatives during their visits,” the ministry said.

Missions have been instructed to inform any MP approaching them about a programme of the decision.

The message also urged all mission chiefs to ensure the directive is followed before arranging programmes for visiting MPs.

A foreign ministry official said embassies and high commissions are routinely involved when ministers travel abroad, but MPs’ programmes often create confusion or complications.

Another official said MPs frequently travel abroad privately or for medical treatment and seek to organise events with expatriate Bangladeshis. Getting involved in such programmes can put missions in a difficult position.

They said formally arranging MPs’ programmes through the foreign ministry would be “convenient for everyone”.