DHAKA: Bangladesh Ambassador to USA Akramul Qader told US Congressman Keith Ellison that a national committee and a working group are working relentlessly to formulate the rules under the Labour (Amendment) Act-2013 to ensure labour safety and labour rights in Bangladesh.

Qader met with Ellison, who is also a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, at Capital Hill in Washington on Thursday.

During the meeting, Ambassador Qader and Congressman Ellison discussed the ongoing war criminal trials and labour safety and labour rights in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Ambassador informed that the International Crimes Tribunals of Bangladesh (ICTBD) is only trying those who allegedly involved in the crimes against humanity during the liberation war in 1971, none brought to the trial for his political faith or affiliation.

He added that, the ICTBD trials are open and transparent; most uniquely provides the right to appeal to the full bench of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court.

Qader elaborated to Ellison that among other initiatives Bangladesh Government adopted National Occupational Safety and Health Policy, established a Task Force on Building and Fire Safety, upgraded and strengthened the office of the Inspector General of Factories and Establishments, initiated assessment of the structural integrity of all active RMG factories, established worker fire safety hotline and establishing public accessible database on safety issues in ready-made garment factories.

All possible steps have been taken by the government but a complete transformation should not be expected overnight, he told Ellison inviting the USA leader to visit Bangladesh.

In response to an invitation to visit Bangladesh, Congressman Ellison expressed hope that he might pay a visit in not too distant future.  

The Congressman also appreciated the progresses Bangladesh has been making in various areas.

BDST: 1337 HRS, MAR 28, 2014