CA Yunus proposes a strategic manufacturing partnership with Saudi Arabia

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus proposed that Saudi Arabia could consider establishing its production sector in Bangladesh by utilising the country's geostrategic location, cheap labor, and resources.

He also urged Saudi investment in energy, including oil refineries, as well as healthcare, health education, and the pharmaceutical industries.

These discussions took place during a courtesy call by the newly appointed Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh, Abdullah Zafer bin Abiyah, at the State Guest House Jamuna, today.

According to the Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, the ambassador delivered an invitation letter from the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister for the Chief Adviser to attend the 9th Future Investment Initiative Forum in Riyadh this October.

Yunus expressed gratitude for the Crown Prince's acceptance of an invitation to visit Bangladesh for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

He warmly welcomed the Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh, expressing hope that bilateral relations would strengthen further during his tenure, and pledged full cooperation with the Saudi government.

Noting the depth of Saudi-Bangladesh relations, the chief adviser emphasised the potential for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

In response, Ambassador Abdullah highlighted ongoing Saudi investments, including the Red Sea Gateway Terminal's involvement in Patenga Container Terminal and Matarbari Deep Sea Port.

He also noted Saudi government funding of $20 million for an Arabic Language Institute and the construction of eight mosques in various Bangladeshi cities.

As a gesture of goodwill, the Chief Adviser presented the ambassador with a collection of graffiti art from July 2024.

Senior Secretary and Principal Coordinator on SDGs Affairs, Lamiya Morshed, was among those present during the meeting.