President Fakhrul seeks Saudi support amid global energy crisis, better Hajj facilities

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has sought Saudi Arabia's continued support for Bangladesh in energy, manpower recruitment, and investment, while urging Riyadh to take steps to improve facilities for Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims.

The president sought the support when Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah Zafar H Bin Abiyah paid a courtesy call on him today (24 August) at Bangabhaban.

During the meeting, the Saudi envoy conveyed congratulations to the president on behalf of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

President's Press Secretary Md Sarwar Alam briefed reporters after the meeting.

The president also sought Saudi cooperation to improve facilities for Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims during their stay, particularly by improving bathing and toilet facilities at Mina, said Sarwar Alam.

The Saudi ambassador assured the president that necessary measures would be taken in this regard.

Noting that more than 35 lakh Bangladeshis are working in Saudi Arabia, President Fakhrul expressed gratitude to the Saudi government and urged it to continue giving priority to recruiting manpower from Bangladesh in the future.

Through the Saudi Ambassador, the president also invited King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time.

The president described Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia relations as excellent and emphasised the need to further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation.

The Saudi Ambassador, in turn, assured the president of continued Saudi support in the areas of energy and investment.

It was the first meeting between President Mirza Fakhrul and a foreign diplomat since he assumed office.

The president's secretary, military secretary, press secretary and senior government officials were present at the meeting.