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Saudi Arabia granted 750,000 work visas to Bangladeshi nationals in 2025, part of a total 1.4 million visas issued to Bangladeshis this year, underscoring the scale of labour migration that anchors relations between the two countries.
The figures were disclosed on Sunday when Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Bangladesh, Abdullah Zafer H. bin Abiyah, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman.
According to a foreign ministry spokesperson, the ambassador conveyed greetings from his government and expressed his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations.
He also voiced support for Bangladesh's current administration and said he was keen to elevate the existing partnership to what he described as a more comprehensive relationship.
The envoy noted that Saudi Arabia was undergoing extensive development, generating demand for both skilled and semi-skilled workers.
With major projects under way across the kingdom, he said, there remained scope for greater participation by Bangladeshi workers.
Welcoming the ambassador, Rahman described Saudi Arabia as a trusted and longstanding partner of Bangladesh.
He recalled that diplomatic relations were formally established in 1976, during the presidency of Ziaur Rahman, with the opening of Bangladesh's embassy in the kingdom.
Zia later paid what officials termed a historic visit to Saudi Arabia in 1977, and both sides acknowledged his role in promoting Muslim unity.
The foreign minister expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East and across the Muslim world.
He also thanked the kingdom for hosting a large Bangladeshi workforce, whose remittances remain a vital component of Bangladesh's economy.
Rahman highlighted the potential to expand cooperation in trade, investment and energy, citing the geostrategic importance of both countries.
He also recalled Saudi Arabia's assistance in facilitating the repatriation of approximately 200,000 Rohingya refugees in 1979 at Dhaka's request.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com