Saudi Ambassador honoured with prestigious 'Bangladesh Medal for Diplomatic Excellence'
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Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh, was conferred the esteemed “Bangladesh Medal for Diplomatic Excellence” at a function on Tuesday for his profound and enduring contributions toward elevating Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia bilateral relationship to unprecedented heights.
Addressing the function Foreign Adviser Mr Touhid Hossain said throughout Bangladesh's diplomatic history, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has remained a steadfast friend and trusted ally.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the inception of our diplomatic engagement.
“Over three million Bangladeshi expatriates are working in Saudi Arabia, playing a vital role in the Kingdom’s economy while contributing to Bangladesh’s development through remittances” the adviser said adding this interdependence reflects the strong and growing connection between our two nations.
“Saudi Arabia’s forward-looking investments in Bangladesh—spanning key areas such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and finance—have further solidified this bond. Together, we have pursued critical initiatives to ensure energy security and promote peace” the adviser stated.
Mr Touhid pointed out that during the tenure of Mr Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan, the Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia relationship has flourished in unprecedented ways.
The Saudi envoy’s dynamism and commitment to expanding and consolidating our multifaceted ties have been nothing short of exemplary, he said adding that the Saudi envoy’s visionary leadership has fostered collaboration across a spectrum of sectors, with Saudi Arabia emerging as one of our key bilateral partners in trade, investment, and energy security.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan demonstrated unparalleled dedication by safeguarding the welfare of Bangladeshi expatriates in Saudi Arabia and ensuring the continuity of employment for Bangladeshi workers, said the adviser.
“These efforts stand as a testament to his compassion and statesmanship, further strengthening the bond between our peoples”.
The foreign adviser felt that at the core of Bangladesh’s foreign policy lies a profound commitment to harmonious coexistence and shared progress.
In this noble endeavour, Mr Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan has played an instrumental role, propelling the Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia partnership through exceptional cooperation and camaraderie, he noted.
“It is, therefore, with immense pride and gratitude that the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh confers this year’s “Bangladesh Medal for Diplomatic Excellence” upon His Excellency Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan” he said.
The Saudi envoy in his speech thanked the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh for this ‘incredible honour’.
“I would like also to express my deep appreciation to His Majesty, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud; His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may Allah protect them; and His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud,
Minister of Foreign Affairs, for entrusting me with the esteemed role of Ambassador to Bangladesh and for their unwavering support throughout my tenure” he added.
Over the past five years, Saudi-Bangladesh bilateral relations have reached new heights, marked by several significant developments.
Narrating some of these he said “Over 50 high-level visits between dignitaries from both countries have significantly enhanced our relationship and promoted mutual understanding.
“We successfully implemented digital applications for Hajj and Umrah, including the Nusuk and Makkah Route Initiatives, which will be implemented again this year to streamline the pilgrimage process for Bangladeshi citizens.”
“Over the past three years, the Saudi Embassy has issued more than 2.2 million workers' visas, facilitating opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia”.
He also said the Saudi-Bangladeshi Joint Committee meeting, held every two years, is scheduled to take place in Dhaka within the coming months.
“Flights between Dhaka and Saudi Arabia continued to operate even during the pandemic, while other countries suspended flights from Bangladesh”
Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin was also present at the function.