Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has underscored the significant partnership between Bangladesh and Italy, identifying the European nation as one of Bangladesh's most vital development allies within the European Union.

During a meeting with Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro at the Home Ministry on Tuesday, the Minister emphasized that both nations share extensive cooperation across several sectors, with a particular focus on safe migration and the expansion of economic ties.

He noted that the Bangladeshi diaspora in Italy plays a crucial role in bolstering the national economy through remittances, and he reaffirmed the government's commitment to deepening these bilateral relations in the coming years.

Ambassador Alessandro reciprocated these sentiments, expressing Italy's strong interest in broadening the scope of bilateral cooperation.

He highlighted that the Italian government remains dedicated to promoting legal migration channels while prioritizing the prevention of illegal migration.

To this end, the envoy announced that a new migration policy will be implemented in Italy starting this June, designed to create safer pathways for workers and accelerate the repatriation process for irregular migrants.

He also noted that the Joint Working Group focused on labor market cooperation and skilled workforce mobility, which last met in Bangladesh in July of the previous year, is scheduled to hold its next session in Italy.

The meeting also served as a platform for formal diplomatic gestures, as the Ambassador presented a congratulatory letter from Italy’s Interior Minister and extended an official invitation for the Bangladeshi Home Minister to visit Italy.

Minister Salahuddin Ahmed accepted the invitation, indicating plans to travel to Italy at a mutually convenient time later this year.

Discussions between the delegation and ministry officials, including Additional Secretary Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed and Joint Secretary Rebeka Khan, also covered law enforcement, security coordination, and strategies to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.