Hon Tony Burke MP, the Minister for Home Affairs, Arts, Cyber Security, Immigration and Multicultural Affairs and Leader of the House of Australia has announced plans to reopen the country’s visa centre in Dhaka during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
The discussions focused on tackling irregular migration between Bangladesh and Australia.
Burke, who also serves as the Leader of the House in Australia, met with Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna in Dhaka on Thursday 31 October. During their conversation, the Chief Adviser urged the Australian government to regularize migration processes and enhance opportunities for legal migration from Bangladesh.
As the highest-ranking Australian official to visit Bangladesh since the interim government took office, Burke highlighted the importance of addressing irregular migration and expressed Australia’s interest in initiating negotiations on this issue. He indicated that there are considerations for increasing regular migration from Bangladesh.
Professor Yunus expressed gratitude for Burke’s visit at a pivotal time for Bangladesh and praised the Australian government’s support for the interim administration’s reform efforts. Burke, whose constituency has a significant Bangladeshi diaspora, noted his keen interest in the developments within the country, particularly the celebrations following the end of the dictatorial regime. He remarked on the prevailing optimism and hope among the populace in light of recent changes.
The Chief Adviser acknowledged the immense challenge of rebuilding the nation, which has faced severe institutional and economic damage due to past governance. He emphasised the difficulty of managing public expectations but noted the patience of the people as they work to rebuild.
The dialogue also touched upon Bangladesh’s rich history, including the Language Movement, which Yunus described as a foundational moment for the country’s independence. He presented Burke with a copy of “The Art of Triumph,” a book showcasing graffiti and murals created during the mass uprising.
Burke appreciated the gift and expressed interest in exploring the local art scene during his visit.
Additionally, Home Adviser Lieutenant General Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd) announced that Australia is willing to accept more Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh. He mentioned that Australia has already welcomed 2,000 Rohingyas and is prepared to take in more, following positive discussions on this matter.
This announcement came after a ministerial-level meeting between Bangladesh and Australia, where a memorandum of understanding concerning “Civil Maritime Security & Maritime Safety” was signed. The agreement was formalized by Rear Admiral Mir Ershad Ali, Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, and Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander of the Australian Maritime Border Command.
Tony Burke also conducted a bilateral meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Foreign Ministry, expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s commitment to reform and progress. The Foreign Adviser outlined various initiatives aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of the younger generation. Both parties acknowledged the growing presence of Bangladeshi IT professionals in Australia’s outsourcing sector.
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