Switzerland to help repatriating money from Swiss banks

Switzerland has pledged full cooperation in repatriating illegal funds deposited by Bangladeshi nationals in Swiss banks, in line with international laws and procedures.

The commitment was made during a meeting between Swiss Ambassador to Dhaka, Reto Siegfried Renggli, and Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the foreign ministry, according to a press release issued by the ministry.

During the meeting, Foreign Adviser Hossain sought Swiss assistance in identifying and recovering illicit assets held in Swiss banks by Bangladeshi individuals. The Swiss Ambassador acknowledged the recent student-led uprising as a significant development, viewing it as an opportunity for widespread reforms in Bangladesh. He expressed Switzerland's readiness to support the reform process.

The foreign adviser highlighted the interim government's decision to establish several commissions aimed at driving reform. Both sides also welcomed Bangladesh's accession to the UN Convention on Enforced Disappearance and agreed to collaborate further on promoting human rights.

On trade and investment, Ambassador Renggli described Bangladesh as a promising market, emphasizing the need for increased private sector engagement and a level playing field to attract more Swiss investments. He also acknowledged the potential of Bangladesh’s youth, particularly in the ICT sector, and expressed interest in supporting initiatives to harness their skills for economic growth and job creation.

The two officials discussed the Rohingya crisis, agreeing that repatriation to Myanmar, with guarantees of safety, security, and rights, remains the only viable solution. The Swiss Ambassador assured continued humanitarian aid for the Rohingyas and host communities in Cox's Bazar.

Additionally, the envoy presented the original congratulatory message from the Swiss Federal Councilor to the foreign adviser.