Saudi, Pakistani envoys express support for Bangladesh’s new govt

Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh, Dr Abdullah Zafer H bin Abiyah, has expressed support for Bangladesh’s new government and pledged to elevate bilateral ties into a comprehensive relationship.

During meetings with Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed today, Dr Abdullah highlighted Saudi Arabia’s issuance of 750,000 work visas and a total of 1.4 million visas for Bangladeshi citizens in 2025.

He encouraged the development of semi‑skilled and skilled workers to meet demands in the Kingdom’s ongoing development projects.

Dr Khalilur said Saudi Arabia has been a trusted, longstanding partner, recalling the establishment of Bangladesh’s embassy in Riyadh in 1976 under President Ziaur Rahman, followed by Zia’s historic visit in 1977.

He praised Saudi leadership in promoting peace and stability across the Middle East and the Muslim Ummah, and expressed gratitude for hosting large numbers of Bangladeshi workers.

The foreign minister also underscored opportunities for expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and other priority sectors, while recalling Saudi support in facilitating the repatriation of 200,000 Rohingyas in 1979.

He sought continued Saudi assistance for the sustainable repatriation of the 1.2 million Rohingyas currently sheltered in Bangladesh.

State Minister Shama Obaed appreciated reform initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, Pakistani High Commissioner Imran Haider conveyed Islamabad’s keen interest in working closely with Bangladesh’s new government to strengthen and broaden cooperation.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman emphasised exploring new avenues of collaboration for the welfare of both peoples and highlighted Bangladesh’s priority of enhancing regional cooperation across South Asia.