Diplomatic Desk:
Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah Ibn Dhafer Ibn Ubayyah paid a courtesy call on Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, MP, and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP.
In the meeting held at the ministry today (July 13) at 12 noon, both sides emphasized the need to further strengthen the long-standing friendly and brotherly relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. The meeting discussed various issues related to increasing bilateral cooperation in civil aviation, tourism sector, and Hajj management.
In the meeting, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam emphasized the need to reduce the overall expenses of Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims. She sought the Ambassador’s cooperation in reducing taxes and other charges imposed by the Saudi authorities. He said that if these expenses on air travel are reduced, thousands of Bangladeshi pilgrims will benefit every year.
In response, the Saudi ambassador assured to consider the matter positively and promised to continue maximum cooperation for the pilgrims.
In the meeting, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat highlighted the issue of increasing accommodation costs for Bangladeshi pilgrims. He said that since the ‘Category D’ accommodation system was closed, the pilgrims are having to bear additional expenses. Therefore, he urged the Saudi authorities to consider re-introducing Category D accommodation for Bangladeshi pilgrims.
The Saudi ambassador reiterated his government’s commitment to improving the quality of services for Bangladeshi pilgrims and making Hajj easier and more affordable. He assured of cooperation in taking necessary initiatives in this regard.
At the end of the meeting, both sides expressed their determination to further deepen the existing excellent relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia and expand mutual cooperation in civil aviation, tourism and Hajj management.
