Visa Bond Unfortunate but Not Surprising: Foreign Affairs Adviser

Foreign Affairs Adviser of the interim government, Md. Touhid Hossain, has described the U.S. decision to impose a 'visa bond' on Bangladeshi citizens as "unfortunate but not unusual." Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, he noted that this measure is part of a broader U.S. policy targeting countries with high rates of immigration-related challenges.

The Adviser explained that such bonds are typically required from citizens of nations whose migrants tend to rely heavily on the U.S. social service system. "Being on this list is painful for us, but given the patterns of migration, it is not unexpected," he remarked.

Clarifying the government's position, Touhid Hossain emphasized that this is not a sudden development. "If this had happened overnight, the accountability would fall on the current administration. However, this policy has been in the making for a long time, rooted in the policy limitations of previous governments," he added.

Addressing the issue of irregular migration, the Adviser reiterated the interim government's zero-tolerance policy. He warned that unless illegal migration is stopped, tragic incidents like those in the Mediterranean will continue. He urged citizens not to take life-threatening risks by traveling on tourist visas without sufficient financial means or legal intent.

According to the U.S. State Department, citizens of 38 countries, including Bangladesh, may now be required to post a visa bond of up to $15,000 to enter the United States. This new requirement for Bangladesh and 24 other countries is set to take effect on January 21.

When asked about the government's next steps, Touhid Hossain stated that they intend to engage in diplomatic discussions with U.S. authorities to seek an exemption for Bangladesh from this requirement.