Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Yousef Essa Al Duhailan stated that Saudi Arabia issued over one million visas to Bangladeshi nationals last year and continues to do so, currently hosting more than 3.2 million Bangladeshi migrant workers, reports BSS.
“Last year alone, we issued more than 1 million visas, and we continue to welcome more,” he said at a reception celebrating the 94th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held at the Saudi Embassy.
Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain joined the reception as the chief guest.
The envoy said, currently, Saudi Arabia hosts over 3.2 million Bangladeshi migrant workers, making them the largest expatriate community outside Bangladesh while their contributions have a significant impact on both economies.
“We successfully organized Hajj for over 85,000 Bangladeshi pilgrims (this year) through the Makkah Route Initiative. Additionally, this year's Umrah quota has increased by 37 per cent, and we have made it easier for pilgrims to book through the mobile app Nusuk,” he added.
The Ambassador said Saudi Arabia will continue to extend its support and collaboration to Bangladesh for achieving shared goals, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for both the countries.
“As a brotherly nation, Saudi Arabia has consistently stood by Bangladesh in times of need,” said the envoy.
He said the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh is characterized by deep brotherhood and mutual respect, rooted in shared religion and cultural values.
“Over the decades, this bond has strengthened as both countries collaborate in various fields, including trade, investment, sports, and culture. Saudi Arabia's multifaceted leadership encompasses in Hajj & Umrah, Man power, and humanitarian aid,” he elaborated.
The Ambassador noted that through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, Saudi Arabia has provided over $7 billion in aid to 102 countries, delivering essential support to communities in Palestine, Yemen, Bangladesh, and other Arab and Muslim nations.
The envoy said Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role on the global stage, shaping the world economy and promoting peace as a member of the G20, BRICS, and OPEC.
He said the Kingdom remains a key player in stabilizing global energy markets and has long been an advocate for the Palestinian cause, supporting a two-state solution based on 1967 borders.
"Since the time of Late King Abdulaziz, Saudi Arabia has been a steadfast advocate for the Palestinian cause, leading international efforts to insure that the Palestinian people achieve their rights, recognizing an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital," he said.
Recently, the envoy noted that, during UN general assembly Prince Faisal AL Farhan announced the International Coalition to implement a two-state solution.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
