The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assured Bangladesh of prompt resolution regarding visa issues faced by Bangladeshi nationals. This commitment was made by UAE Ambassador Abdulla Ali AlHmoudi during a recent courtesy visit to Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin.
Diplomatic Engagement
The meeting took place at the foreign ministry in Dhaka on Monday, where the ambassador responded to the foreign secretary’s concerns regarding the challenges surrounding visa issuance. Jashim Uddin emphasized the urgency of addressing the restrictions on visas, particularly the pending applications for employment visas, which are crucial for facilitating smoother mobility for Bangladeshi workers in the UAE.
During the discussions, Jashim highlighted the significant reforms undertaken by the interim government aimed at ensuring political and economic stability across various sectors. This reform agenda is vital for fostering an environment conducive to investment and growth.
Contributions of Bangladeshi Expatriates
The foreign secretary expressed gratitude for the contributions made by Bangladeshi expatriates in the UAE, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, finance, banking, and healthcare. He also acknowledged the UAE government’s gesture of a general pardon for convicted nationals who had shown solidarity with the recent student-led mass movement in Bangladesh.
This acknowledgment underscores the importance of expatriate contributions to both countries’ economies and reflects the UAE’s sensitivity to the political climate in Bangladesh.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The discussions between Jashim Uddin and Ambassador AlHmoudi extended beyond visa issues. They delved into enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on economic cooperation, trade, and social welfare projects between the two nations. The ambassador recognized the substantial presence of the Bangladeshi diaspora and their pivotal role in various industries in the UAE.
Both parties expressed a desire to explore opportunities for investment and business development, identifying key players in the UAE such as logistics giant DP World, renewable energy leader MASDAR, and air service provider Dnata. The ambassador also mentioned potential collaborations with the Al-Nahyan Trust, which is known for its welfare initiatives.
Economic Contributions and Remittances
The foreign secretary acknowledged the significant remittances sent back to Bangladesh from the UAE, which play a crucial role in bolstering the nation’s economic growth. The financial contributions from expatriates have been instrumental in supporting families and communities across Bangladesh, highlighting the mutual benefits of the bilateral relationship.
Prospects for Political Exchanges
The meeting concluded with discussions on the potential for high-level political exchanges aimed at advancing bilateral cooperation. Both sides recognized that stronger diplomatic ties could further enhance collaboration in various sectors, paving the way for mutual prosperity.
This commitment from the UAE, along with the emphasis on economic cooperation and support for the Bangladeshi workforce, reflects a positive trajectory in bilateral relations between the two nations. The swift resolution of visa issues is expected to facilitate greater movement of Bangladeshi nationals, reinforcing their role in the UAE’s dynamic economy.
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