Visa applicants aspiring to travel to European countries formed a human chain on Friday (Nov 15), demanding the establishment of European embassies or consulates in Bangladesh.

Under the banner of the Unity Council of Europe-bound Visa Seekers, the demonstration was held in front of the National Press Club in the capital.

Speaking at the event, the council’s Member Secretary Mehedi Hasan Ashiq said, “The number of Bangladeshis traveling abroad for education, employment, and migration is increasing every day. However, due to the absence of embassies and consulates of many European countries in Bangladesh, applicants are forced to travel to other countries for consular services. This leads to significant waste of time and money while also reducing the remittance inflow to Bangladesh. Therefore, we demand the establishment of European embassies or consulates here in Bangladesh.”

Nafisa Islam Khan, President of the organization, highlighted the difficulties faced by Bangladeshi citizens at European embassies and consulates located in Delhi. “Getting appointments in Delhi’s European embassies is a constant struggle for Bangladeshis. Even with proper documentation, India often denies travel visas, delaying the consular services we need. Establishing these services in Bangladesh is crucial to ensure smoother access to European countries,” she said.

At this time the protesters presented a four-point proposal to address the issue:

• Saving Time and Costs: Local consular operations will eliminate the need to travel to Delhi, saving both time and money for applicants.
• Faster Processing: Localized services will make the application process quicker and simpler, enabling citizens to receive visas and consular services faster.
• Improved Service Quality: Direct embassies or consulates in Bangladesh will provide accurate and reliable information, allowing applicants to seek assistance without hesitation.
• Job Creation and Strengthened Relations: Establishing consular offices will create local job opportunities and enhance bilateral ties between Bangladesh and European countries.

The demonstrators urged European countries to address these concerns promptly, ensuring better services for Bangladeshi visa seekers and boosting remittance inflows.

BDST: 1521 HRS, NOV 15, 2024
MSK