A five-member delegation of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami led by party’s Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman visited Europe from April 7 to April 10, and the United Kingdom on April 11 and 12. The visit was made at the invitation of Mr. Șerban-Dimitrie Sturdza, the honorable chairman of the European Union's "Delegation for Relations with South Asia." The Jamaat delegation included its Nayeb-e-Ameer and former MP Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, Jamaat’s spokesperson for Europe Barrister Abu Bakar Molla, legal advisor Barrister Mahbubul Alam, and Jamaat Ameer’s advisor on Foreign Affairs Professor Dr. Mahmudul Hasan.

Upon returning home, a press conference was organized on April 17 at noon at the Westin Hotel in Gulshan, Dhaka, based on the outcomes of the tour.

Among the Jamaat leaders present at the press conference were Nayeb-e-Ameer and former MP Professor Mujibur Rahman, Nayeb-e-Ameer and former MP Maulana ANM Shamsul Islam, Secretary General and former MP Professor Mia Golam Porwar, Assistant Secretary General Maulana ATM Masum and Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, former MP Dr. Hamidur Rahman Azad, Maulana Abdul Halim, Advocate Muazzam Hossain Helal, Advocate Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair, Central Executive Committee Member and Secretary of the Central Publicity and Media Department Advocate Matiur Rahman Akanda, Central Executive Committee Member Principal Md. Izzat Ullah, Central Executive Committee Member and Ameer of Dhaka City South Nurul Islam Bulbul, and Central Executive Committee Member and Ameer of Dhaka City North Md. Selim Uddin among others.

Summary of the Speech Delivered by Ameer-e-Jamaat at the Press Conference

Strengthening Democracy and National Unity:

In meetings with officials from the European Parliament, European Commission, European Council, and the Belgian government, we emphasized the importance of a democratic environment in Bangladesh, good governance, and ensuring participation of all political parties.

We highlighted the achievements of the government during the 2001–2006 period. Jamaat engages in welfare-oriented and corruption-free politics. The party believes in practicing democracy within the organization and fostering grassroots leadership. Rejecting the notion of ethnic or religious minorities, we stated, “We are all Bangladeshis.” National unity is our top priority.

Economic Cooperation, Migration, and Skills Development:

To strengthen economic partnerships between Bangladesh and Europe, Jamaat’s delegation proposed:

• Establishing joint institutions for developing skilled human resources
• International education and experience exchange programs for students
• A well-structured migration policy
• Simplifying visa processes and allowing visa applications to be completed from within Bangladesh

We stated that Bangladesh, with its strategic geographic location, hardworking labor force, and port facilities, is on the brink of becoming a exceptionally promising destination for future investments.

The delegation also proposed setting up a special export processing zone for Belgium. Additionally, in the context of climate change, we called for investment in eco-friendly technologies and green energy.

Labor Rights and Sustainability in the Industrial Sector:

The delegation emphasized the need for a balanced framework to protect workers’ rights while ensuring an investment-friendly environment. They stated the importance of:

• A safe and dignified working environment
• Fair wages
• Mutual respect and dialogue between employers and workers

They noted that only based on aforesaid principles, a sustainable industrial sector and a peaceful workplace can be established.

Rohingya Crisis: A Global Responsibility

Regarding the Rohingya refugee crisis, we acknowledged Belgium’s assistance as commendable but stressed that a permanent solution is needed. The delegation stated that beyond humanitarian aid, the long-term solution lies in ensuring the Rohingyas’ dignified repatriation to their homeland. The European Union and the United Nations must play a more effective role in resolving this issue.

Call for the Recovery of Smuggled Wealth:

We sought the European Union’s support in recovering the money laundered abroad by corrupt individuals from previous governments. We believe this would be a major step toward restoring public trust and establishing justice.

Diplomatic Relations and Invitations:

We extended invitations to the President of the European Parliament, the King and Queen of Belgium, and other top European officials to visit Bangladesh.

Visit to the United Kingdom and Meeting with the Zia Family:

While in London, we met with former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently undergoing medical treatment there, to inquire about her health. At that time, BNP's Acting Chairman Mr. Tarique Rahman was also present. We offered prayers for Begum Zia’s quick recovery and sought prayers for us as well.

Vision for the Future:

Even though we are not in government, as a responsible political force, we consider it our responsibility to work for the national interest both at home and on the international stage. If the nation entrusts us with responsibility through a democratic process in the future, these issues will receive the highest priority, In shaa Allah.

Message to the Journalists:

We extend our sincere thanks to all of you. We hope you will convey our messages to the people of the country.