Bangladesh’s outgoing foreign affairs adviser Md. Touhid Hossain said he does not personally accept responsibility for the recent difficulties Bangladeshis face in obtaining foreign visas. Speaking at a media briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, he stated that the problem stems from systemic and national shortcomings rather than individual or ministerial failures. He argued that widespread document fraud has damaged Bangladesh’s credibility abroad, making it harder for citizens to secure visas or admissions.

Hossain explained that visa and admission decisions depend on the authenticity of submitted documents, and Bangladesh’s reputation for falsification has undermined trust. He warned that unless the country addresses internal irregularities, the situation could worsen. He also acknowledged that relations between Bangladesh and India had stagnated during the interim government’s tenure, noting that both nations prioritized their own interests.

Expressing optimism, Hossain said he believes the next government will be able to improve bilateral relations with India. He also dismissed concerns that agreements signed by the interim government would burden its successor, saying they were intended to facilitate future work.