The prisoner transfer agreement between Bangladesh and the Maldives is in its final stage, paving the way for Bangladeshi inmates in Maldivian prisons to return home on humanitarian grounds to serve the remainder of their sentences.
The Bangladesh High Commission in the Maldives disclosed the development in a press release issued on Friday.
According to the High Commission, the relevant authorities of both countries are working closely to expedite the agreement's implementation. Once the necessary formalities are completed, the deal will be signed and brought into effect.
The agreement is expected to strengthen legal and humanitarian cooperation between the two countries while supporting the mental well-being and social rehabilitation of prisoners.
Separately, a delegation led by Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives, Dr Md Nazmul Islam, recently visited Maafushi Prison as part of efforts to ensure the welfare, rights, and humanitarian support of Bangladeshi nationals in the island nation.
The delegation met with 44 Bangladeshi prisoners during the visit and inquired about their overall condition.
According to the High Commission, 34 of the Bangladeshi inmates at Maafushi Prison have been convicted and are serving various prison terms, while the remaining 10 are awaiting trial.
Members of the delegation spoke individually with each prisoner and assessed their access to medical care, food, clothing, accommodation, and the overall prison environment.
The delegation later held a meeting with Maldivian prison authorities, where it raised various concerns and complaints of the inmates and requested that the facilities they are entitled to be provided promptly.
Following the visit, High Commissioner Dr Md Nazmul Islam said: "Ensuring the human dignity and fundamental rights of every Bangladeshi citizen living abroad is part of our responsibility. The present government is sincerely committed to ensuring the welfare, protection, and dignity of Bangladeshis living overseas."
