Mohammad Shajibul-Al-Rajib:
Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh, Dr. Abdullah bin Abiyah, stated that bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh are continuously deepening and expanding across various sectors. He noted that cooperation between the two nations persists in areas such as the economy, trade, energy, labor, and international organizations.
He made these remarks on Tuesday (September 22, 2026) at a reception hosted by the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka to mark Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day.
Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, attended the event as the chief guest.
Speaking as the chief guest, Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan conveyed sincere congratulations to the government and people of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the Kingdom’s National Day.
He extended his greetings to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
Dr. Moyeen Khan stated that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh is founded on religious bonds, historical ties, mutual respect, and shared values. Over time, this relationship has expanded into various sectors, including trade, energy, infrastructure, defense, education, and technology.
He remarked that Saudi Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people, noting the profound bonds of friendship and religious harmony shared by the populations of both nations.
The Minister further mentioned that a large number of Bangladeshi citizens reside and work in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic progress despite being far from their families. He expressed gratitude to the Saudi government for the hospitality and care extended to the Bangladeshi expatriates.
He also commended Saudi Arabia’s continued cooperation in facilitating safe and smooth pilgrimages for Hajj pilgrims.
Highlighting regional and global cooperation between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, Dr. Moyeen Khan noted that the two countries are working closely within the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and other multilateral platforms. The two countries share a common vision regarding peaceful coexistence, conflict resolution, and addressing global challenges, including environmental issues.
He stated that Bangladesh envisions elevating its relationship with Saudi Arabia into a broader strategic partnership in the future. There are opportunities for deeper cooperation across various sectors, including energy, ports, infrastructure, food security, and logistics.
The Minister noted that the concessional assistance provided by Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh to date exceeds 500 million US dollars. He also conveyed the Prime Minister’s gratitude to the Saudi royal family, government, and people for providing grants amounting to over 100 million US dollars.
In his address, Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah bin Abiyah stated that on the occasion of Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day, the nation’s people are showcasing their homeland’s development and progress to the world. Significant advancements are being achieved across all sectors through various programs and projects under Saudi Vision 2030.
He remarked that the robust relationship between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh has consistently fostered prosperity and progress in various fields. Cooperation has notably advanced in areas such as the economy, trade, energy, labor, and within international organizations. This progress aligns with both Saudi Vision 2030 and Bangladesh’s Vision 2041.
The Ambassador noted that the relationship between the two nations has gained significant momentum since the new government assumed office in February 2026. Alongside the expansion of cooperation in various sectors, the frequency of high-level bilateral visits has increased, reflecting the growing and deepening ties between the two countries.
Regarding bilateral trade, he mentioned that trade volume between the two nations is steadily rising and has currently reached 1.2 billion US dollars. In the last six months alone, the trade volume stood at 500 million US dollars—a 6 percent increase compared to the same period the previous year.
Dr. Abdullah bin Abiyah stated that the fraternal bond between the governments and peoples of the two nations is reflected in various official activities and interactions. He also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries of Bangladesh for their cooperation in enhancing bilateral ties.
Diplomats from various countries stationed in Bangladesh, political figures, government and private sector officials, businesspeople, cultural personalities, and prominent citizens were present at the event.
