The Maldives and Bangladesh are in the final stages of concluding an agreement that will allow Bangladeshi nationals serving prison sentences in the Maldives to be transferred to Bangladesh to complete the remainder of their sentences, the Bangladesh High Commission has announced.

In a statement, the High Commission said authorities from both countries are working to complete the remaining legal formalities before the agreement is signed and brought into force.

The agreement is intended to facilitate the transfer of convicted prisoners on humanitarian grounds, enabling them to serve the balance of their sentences in their home country while safeguarding their dignity and fundamental rights.

As part of the initiative, Bangladesh's High Commissioner to the Maldives, Dr Mohammad Nazmul Islam, visited Maafushi Prison to assess the welfare of Bangladeshi inmates. During the visit, he met all 44 Bangladeshi nationals held at the prison and reviewed their living conditions.

The High Commission, noted that 34 of the inmates are serving prison sentences, while the remaining 10 are being held on remand pending the conclusion of legal proceedings.

The High Commission delegation also met each inmate individually to assess access to healthcare, food, communication and accommodation. It later held discussions with senior officials of the Maldives Correctional Service, conveying concerns raised by the prisoners and requesting that they continue to receive the services and legal assistance to which they are entitled.

High Commissioner Dr Nazmul Islam said protecting the dignity and fundamental rights of Bangladeshi citizens abroad remains a priority for the Government of Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh High Commission confirmed that work on the agreement is nearing completion. The Maldivian Government has not yet issued an official statement on the proposed arrangement.