'Probashi Card' to be launched for expats

Bangladesh's Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment and Janata Bank PLC signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday to launch a card for expatriate and migrant-bound Bangladeshi citizens, according to a press release issued by the ministry.

The agreement was signed in the ministry's conference room at the secretariat. According to the ministry, the initiative aims to simplify financial transactions for expatriates, bring them under formal banking services, and ensure access to various government facilities.

Speaking as chief guest, State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Haque said the launch of the card marked "a historic and landmark" development.

He said Bangladeshi expatriates' contribution to keeping the economy running and strengthening foreign currency reserves was paramount, and that the digital card was being introduced to ensure the overall safety of expatriates' lives, secure their hard-earned money, and simplify domestic transaction processes.

The junior minister thanked Janata Bank PLC for its cooperation and said he hoped the card would allow expatriates to carry out faster and safer transactions directly through banking channels, while also making it easier for them to access various government facilities.

Md Mokhter Ahmed, secretary of the ministry, who chaired the event, said the ministry's activities were progressing according to the government's time-bound plan and roadmap, and that it remained committed to implementing every decision taken for expatriates' welfare within set timeframes.

He described Monday's MoU as a concrete reflection of that commitment.

Secretary Md Mokhter Ahmed signed the MoU on behalf of the ministry, while Managing Director Md Mujibur Rahman signed on behalf of Janata Bank PLC. Senior officials from both organisations attended the event.