Conditions Added to Visa-on-Arrival Ahead of 13th Parliamentary Election: Foreign Adviser

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has said that conditions have been imposed on Bangladesh’s visa-on-arrival policy to avoid any “undesirable situation” during the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

He made the remarks at a press briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

“We have been given such an instruction,” Touhid Hossain said. “As you know, attempts may be made to create an unwanted environment during elections. Some individuals who are not desirable may try to enter the country. That is why this measure has been taken. However, we are not shutting down visas. Those who come with proper visas and valid purposes will be allowed to enter.”

The foreign adviser also commented on a viral video showing the counting of postal ballots at a residence in Bahrain. “I have seen the issue related to postal ballots. I understand that measures are being taken in this regard,” he said.

Regarding the possibility of deploying Bangladeshi troops as part of an international stabilization force in Gaza, Touhid Hossain said no decision has been made yet. “There has only been discussion so far. Nothing has been finalized—who will be involved and who will not,” he said, adding that Bangladesh would not participate unless certain conditions are met.

“First, we will not go to engage in combat. Second, if there is no authority with whom we can communicate or hold discussions, then we will not go. Our conditions are clear. Only after that will we consider the matter,” he said.

On the issue of clashes along the Myanmar border, the foreign adviser said the role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was to lodge a formal protest by summoning the Myanmar ambassador. “Those on the ground are handling the situation. I do not receive hour-by-hour or even daily updates on exactly what they are doing,” he added.