Prince Salman’s visit to further enhance Dhaka-Riyadh ties: Touhid

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s upcoming visit here will undoubtedly solidify the enduring bilateral partnership as the two nations prepare to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties next year.

“We eagerly anticipate the Crown Prince’s visit, which promises to further enhance the momentum of our bilateral relations,” he said at a reception on celebration the 94th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, held at the Saudi Embassy here last evening.

Highlighting the deep bond between the two countries, the foreign adviser said since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1975, the partnership has flourished across the various sectors.

“We remain committed to forging a strategic partnership as we approach the Golden Jubilee of our diplomatic ties next year,” he added.

Touhid praised Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a transformative plan spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy and promote sustainability.

He expressed Bangladesh’s willingness to contribute to this ambitious vision by sharing its experience and expertise for sustainable, inclusive development.

He also extended gratitude to Saudi Arabia for employing around 3 million Bangladeshi workers, both semi-skilled and unskilled, who are contributing to the economies of both countries.

“The proposal for establishing a Joint Task Force on labor issues reflects our shared commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers-a testament to our common values of social justice,” he continued.

The foreign adviser emphasized that Saudi Arabia has been a steadfast partner in Bangladesh’s development journey, with the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) playing a key role in various infrastructure projects over the years.

He also highlighted that two-way trade between the two nations has exceeded $2 billion recent years, with growing interest from Saudi investors in sectors such as logistics, infrastructure, and renewable energy.

Citing the recent investment initiative by the Red Sea Gateway Terminal in the operation of Potenga Container Terminal as an example, the adviser underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing Bangladesh’s logistical capabilities.

He invited Saudi companies to explore investment opportunities within Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones, offering significant prospects in infrastructure, power, tourism, and hospitality.

Touhid further noted that both countries have identified new areas for collaboration, particularly in labor migration, investment, infrastructure, education, agriculture, and the environment.

“Looking ahead, we plan to elevate our Joint Commission to the ministerial level, reflecting the growing importance of our relationship,” he said, adding this move would unlock new opportunities and enhance cooperation in addressing global challenges and supporting each other in international forums.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Yousef Essa Al Duhailan delivered the welcome speech at the event. (BSS)