On July 4, 2025, the Bangladesh Consulate in Istanbul hosted a gathering with the Bangladeshi expatriate community in honor of the visit of Mr. Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, Honorable Advisor to the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Bangladesh.
The event brought together students, professionals, and businesspeople living in Türkiye.
The session began at Bangladesh House, moderated by Deputy Chief of Mission Dr. Mohammad Shahinur Alam. After a round of introductions, community members shared their views on various important issues — including the need for electoral reforms before the next national election, ensuring voting rights for expatriates, improving democratic processes, and making consular services more accessible and efficient.
Speakers such as Mohammad Walid bin Siraj, Shah Mohammad Jalal Uddin, Dr. AFM Shahen Shah, Dr. Rahmat Ullah Rafiq, Neamat Ullah Masud, Syed Magfur Ahmad, and Rafiqul Hasan Rafi, among others, spoke about both challenges and opportunities facing Bangladeshis living in Türkiye. In his speech, Honorable Advisor Mr. Asif Mahmud acknowledged the challenges involved in implementing voting rights for expatriates in some countries but shared that the interim government is actively working to start this process in a few locations. He assured the community that their suggestions would be conveyed to the relevant authorities back home. The event concluded with closing remarks from Consul General Mr. Mizanur Rahman.
After the formal discussion, everyone stayed back to enjoy delicious Bangladeshi dishes. We extend our sincere thanks to the Bangladesh Consulate in Istanbul for organizing this beautiful event, and to Honorable Advisor Mr. Asif Mahmud for taking the time to connect with the Bangladeshi community in Türkiye.
For a full recap of today’s event, including more photos and highlights, visit our social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and X(Twitter).