Bangladesh has urged the European Union to open new legal migration pathways for its skilled workers as the two sides discussed coordination on the EU’s forthcoming Asylum and Return Border Procedure.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam made the call during a meeting in Dhaka with Henrik Nielsen, the European Commission’s director for International Affairs, Returns and Visa. EU Ambassador Michael Miller also attended, the foreign ministry said.

Islam reaffirmed Bangladesh’s “zero-tolerance policy towards human trafficking and all forms of irregular migration” while stressing the government’s commitment to safe, orderly and regular migration, according to a ministry statement.

She welcomed the EU Talent Partnership initiative and urged EU member states to expand opportunities for Bangladeshi professionals and skilled workers.

The two sides exchanged views on the EU’s planned border procedure and underscored the importance of close coordination, regular dialogue and due process in migration and return matters. Ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the risks of irregular migration were also highlighted.

The discussion ranged across a broad set of other issues, including a possible Bangladesh–EU Free Trade Agreement, Dhaka’s graduation from the least developed country (LDC) status, employment generation, skills development and regional cooperation.

The state minister thanked the EU for its sustained support for Rohingya refugees and their host communities, and reiterated the need for international attention on the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening Bangladesh–EU relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest, the statement said.