The Bangladesh Ambassador, His Execellency Shahidul Islam, is a veteran diplomat who has served in Geneva, Washington, and many other places. At a summit last May, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and President Lee Myung-bak agreed on investment and technology cooperation as well as cultural exchange between both nations. Subsequently, many Koreans have visited Bangladesh.
There are approximately 21,000 Bangladeshis in Korea, with roughly 10,000 serving as industrial workers. In addition, around 500 university students studying here, most in graduate programs; it is reported that professors from each university support their tuition. Also, approximately 300 are married to Koreans, primarily Bangladeshi men and Korean women.
Ambassador Islam has undertaken consultations regarding the working conditions of the workers via Internet and email ; instead of through in-person visits to the embassy in order to address inconveniences. He has also organized various cultural events for them, and invites Koreans who support Bangladesh so as to enlist their aid. The ambassador said, “I want more native people to work in Korean companies.” He went on to say, “Bangladeshis tend to be faithful, adapt swiftly to new environments and learn quickly.” He noted, “It is quite disappointing that Bangladesh students who study in Korea do not return to their homeland; instead they get jobs in Korea, Australia, Canada, or the United States.” The ambassador added, “The caliber of research programs in Korea is definitely high and systematic. It would be difficult for these students to apply what they learn while in Korea to the research process of their native country.” He also said that Korea offers relatively favorable working conditions and those foreign students are able to pursue studies in various fields.
Ambassador Islam said, “I really thank the Korean government for accepting Bangladesh workers. I think that the government and the Korean people are making every effort to support all foreign employees without discrimination in their workplaces and daily lives.” Published by Shin Kwang Yul ppcwc@yahoo.co.kr
