Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Thursday said the government would take firm action against any disinformation campaign on social media aimed at tarnishing Bangladesh's image, describing the country as a progressive and moderate Muslim state.
He made the remarks during a courtesy call with Palestinian Ambassador to Bangladesh Yousuf SY Ramadan at his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Secretariat.
The minister said those involved in cybercrime and online disinformation would be swiftly identified through proper investigations and brought to justice under the law, with exemplary punishment ensured.
Reaffirming Bangladesh's longstanding support for Palestine, Salahuddin Ahmed said the country has consistently backed the Palestinian people's struggle for independence and the establishment of a sovereign state.
He also recalled that former president Ziaur Rahman had played a significant and memorable role in mobilising international opinion and diplomatic support for the Palestinian cause, adding that Bangladesh's principled and moral support for Palestine would continue.
During the meeting, Ambassador Ramadan said a large number of Palestinian students are studying at government and private educational institutions in Bangladesh. He sought Bangladesh's cooperation in facilitating their entry by granting visas on arrival.
In response, the home minister immediately instructed the relevant officials to extend the necessary assistance. He also requested that the matter be formally referred to the Ministry of Home Affairs through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for consideration.
The ambassador further proposed that if any Palestinian citizen or student applies for a Bangladeshi visa at Bangladesh missions in the Middle East, a copy of the application be shared with the Palestinian Embassy in Dhaka to facilitate verification.
