Saudi Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of Bangladeshi people, foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain has said, seeking “strategic partnership” with the Kingdom.
“We remain committed to forging a strategic partnership as we approach the Golden Jubilee of our diplomatic ties next year,” he said while speaking as the chief guest on the 94th National Day of Saudi Arabia on Sunday night.
“This day is a testament not only to Saudi Arabia's achievements but also to the deep and enduring friendship between our two nations—one that, while formally established in 1975, is rooted in millennia of shared cultural and historical ties,” he said.
“We eagerly anticipate the upcoming visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Bangladesh, an event that promises to further enhance the momentum of our bilateral relations,” he said as the Crown Prince is expected to visit Bangladesh in November.
“Looking ahead, we are going to elevate our Joint Commission to the ministerial level, reflecting the deepening significance of our relationship. This step will undoubtedly help unlock new opportunities and strengthen our cooperation in addressing global challenges and supporting each other in international forums.”
Since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1975, the adviser said, our partnership has flourished, evidenced by extensive engagements across sectors such as trade, investment, human resources employment, energy, defense, culture, education and so on.
“Both sides have actively engaged in initiatives like exchanges of business delegations, underscoring the growing significance and dynamism of our bilateral relationship,” he said, adding that Saudi Arabia has been a “steadfast partner” in Bangladesh’s development journey.
Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has partnered Bangladesh in implementing several infrastructure projects over the years.
The adviser also expressed “deep gratitude” for the Kingdom for employing around 3 million of Bangladeshi workers, both semi-skilled and unskilled who are contributing to both of our economies.
“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 said.
The two way trade has exceeded $2 billion in the recent years which is a “good sign”.
Bangladesh sources its strategic goods like petroleum products and minerals, and fertilizer from Saudi Arabia to keep the economy moving.
Recently, Bangladesh is drawing increasing attention from Saudi businessmen and investors who are showing keen interest to invest here.
“The recent investment initiative by the Red Sea Gateway Terminal in the operation of Potenga Container Terminal is a case in point to showcase Kingdom's commitment to developing Bangladesh’s logistical capacities in the port sector,” he said.
Some notable companies, such as ACWA Power and SABIC, are exploring opportunities in renewable energy, logistics and infrastructure sector.
Simultaneously, Bangladeshi businesses are eager to engage in sectors like pharmaceuticals and fertilizers in Saudi Arabia.
“As Bangladesh rapidly develops, we invite our Saudi partners to explore the immense potential within our Special Economic Zones, offering significant opportunities in infrastructure, power, tourism, and hospitality.”
“Our two nations have also identified new areas for collaboration, particularly in areas of labor migration, investment, infrastructure development, education, as well as agriculture and environment.”
The adviser extolled the leadership of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and said “Bangladesh is willing to be a partner to contribute to realizing this vision by sharing our experience and expertise in aligning with these aspirations for sustainable, inclusive development.”
“We also look forward to celebrating 50 years of our diplomatic ties, marked by cultural exchanges, business delegations, and high-level visits that will undoubtedly solidify our enduring partnership,” he said.
