Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has stated that modern, technology-driven management is essential for strengthening border security and supporting national economic growth.
Making the remarks as the chief guest at a briefing titled “Strategic Framework on Immigration and Border Governance in Bangladesh (2027–2031)”, he spoke at an event organised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) at a hotel in Dhaka on Wednesday.
The minister stated that modern, integrated, and technology-based border management plays an essential role in safeguarding national security and promoting economic growth.
Bangladesh is now more connected to the outside world than ever before, he said, adding that the government is working to develop an internationally recognised immigration system that facilitates travel and trade while addressing cross-border risks.
He stated that border management must safeguard national security while simultaneously facilitating legitimate travel and trade. He added that the government's priorities include digital transformation, the responsible deployment of artificial intelligence, paperless administrative processes, and enhanced coordination among government agencies.
Highlighting the role of the Special Branch (SB) of Bangladesh Police in border management, Salahuddin stated that the operational capacity of airports, land ports, and immigration checkpoints must be strengthened through modern technology and appropriate policies. He also emphasized the importance of human rights and protection.
Calling for coordination among ministries to prevent human trafficking, irregular migration and cross-border crime, the minister stated that border management was not the responsibility of any single agency. Instead, the minister said it required collective efforts from relevant ministries, departments and law enforcement agencies.
He welcomed the International Organization for Migration's (IOM) proposed strategic framework for 2027–2031 and urged the organisation to continue supporting Bangladesh in developing an internationally recognised border management system. He also called on development partners to increase technical and financial assistance.
Dr Laura Tomm Bonde, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission in Bangladesh, stated that the country had achieved significant progress in enhancing its migration and border management capacity.
However, changing travel patterns and operational needs required effective systems, skilled personnel and better coordination among relevant agencies, she said. The International Organization for Migration was keen to support the government's priorities through technical expertise and partnerships.
Also present at the meeting were Dr Ziauddin Ahmed, additional secretary of the Political and Emigration Wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs; Rebeka Khan, joint secretary of the Political-1 Branch; Md Kamrul Ahsan, additional inspector general of police (Special Branch); and Md Moazzem Hossain, deputy inspector general of police.
Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh and Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro also attended the event, alongside representatives from partner organisations.
The discussion centered on facilitating legitimate travel and trade while simultaneously addressing challenges such as human trafficking, cross-border crime, and identity fraud.
The proposed framework from the IOM identifies four specific areas of cooperation: integrated border management; digital systems and information sharing; institutional and professional capacity development; and infrastructure and service improvements at selected border control points.
Why it matters
The framework aims to modernize border control while protecting national security and supporting economic growth.