Bangladesh Saturday requested Saudi Arabia to extend the amnesty period and regularisation process for Bangladeshi workforce which is going to end on July 3.
Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dipu Moni made the request when she called on Deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Prince Muqrin bin Abdul Aziz at his palace in Riyadh Saturday afternoon, according to a foreign ministry press release.
In response, the Saudi deputy prime minister assured of conveying the request for extension of time period for ‘iqama’ transfer of Bangladeshi workforce in the Kingdom to Saudi King for his kind consideration.
Prince Muqrin termed relations between the two countries a time tested and excellent one which is deep rooted in the history, common faith, culture and traditions.
Dipu Moni, who is now on a five-day official visit to the Kingdom, appreciated the support extended by the custodian of the two holy mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz and his government towards Bangladesh over the years, particularly in hours of crises.
She also lauded the recent announcement of amnesty and regularisation of employment status for those who were affected by NITAQAT program by the Saudi government.
They also discussed bilateral trade between the two countries. The export of quality pharmaceutical products, readymade garments (RMG) and ceramics from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia was highlighted by the foreign minister.
Dipu Moni sought the Saudi support for a preferential trading agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council which would allow export of Bangladesh products to all Gulf nations with concessional tariff.
Agreeing to support this proposal, Prince Muqrin underlined the need for regular and increased interaction between businessmen of both the countries to boost trade and investment.
Dipu Moni mentioned the recent visit of a Saudi manpower delegation who learned about migration process in Bangladesh under which the government has introduced 3-tier screening process, training of the workforce, issuance of MRP and reduction of migration cost.
Bangladesh ambassador to the kingdom Mohammed Shahidul Islam was also present during the meeting.