US Ambassador in Dhaka Marcia Bernicat yesterday reaffirmed her government’s commitment to fighting against human trafficking together saying it is a critical time for Bangladesh, for this region, and for this call to action, reports UNB.
“Today is an important day. Today, we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to fighting human trafficking. I’m grateful to be here at such a critical time for Bangladesh, for this region, and for this call to action,” she said.
The US diplomat was addressing a function titled ‘National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking’ in the city.
State Minister of Home Affairs Asaduzzaman Khan, Senior Secretary of the ministry Dr M Mozammel Haque Khan, Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haque, Law Secretary Abu Saleh Sk M Zahirul Haque and Expatiate Welfare Secretary Khandaker M Iftekhar Haider were present. Bernicat said all are outraged by the crimes being committed upon thousands of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis who have been stranded in overcrowded boats.  
“The anguish and helplessness of these people and their families has touched every one of us. Their stories put a human face on this crime and give us a clear message -- we need to be more coordinated, stringent, and strategic with our actions to combat human trafficking,” she said.