Home Advisor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has called on outgoing Saudi Ambassador Isa bin Yousuf bin Isa Al Duhailan to facilitate the recruitment of more Bangladeshi workers while also pledging cooperation for expatriates in Saudi Arabia who lack valid passports.
During a courtesy meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday, Jahangir requested the ambassador’s support in increasing the number of Bangladeshi workers employed in Saudi Arabia. According to a ministry statement, Bangladesh aims to raise the number of its nationals working in the kingdom from 3.2 million to 4 million.
“Saudi Arabia is a key partner in Bangladesh’s development,” Jahangir emphasized, highlighting that the Gulf nation employs more Bangladeshis than any other country.
Reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, Al Duhailan underscored the collaboration between the two nations in sectors such as trade, investment, tourism, and culture.
“Saudi Arabia has always stood by Bangladesh and will continue to do so,” he said.
The ambassador also noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, when flights between Saudi Arabia and several countries—including the UAE and Pakistan—were suspended, air connectivity with Bangladesh remained uninterrupted.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the situation of approximately 69,000 undocumented Bangladeshi nationals residing in Saudi Arabia without valid passports. The ambassador reiterated his government’s stance that proper legal documentation is essential for residing and working in the country.
Saudi authorities have repeatedly urged the Bangladesh government to issue or renew passports for these individuals in multiple official discussions.
In response, Jahangir assured that a bilateral protocol had been signed to resolve the issue and reaffirmed Bangladesh’s full cooperation in addressing the matter.
