Staff Correspondent

Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Adviser Md. Nahid Islam has urged Saudi Arabia to invest in Bangladesh's IT sector, with a particular focus on high-tech parks.

The adviser made this call during a meeting with Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Bangladesh, Essa Youssef Essa Al Duhailan at the Secretariat on Thursday.

The current government is eager to strengthen its existing relationship with Saudi Arabia, ensuring that all ongoing projects between the two countries continue, he added.

The Saudi Ambassador praised the interim government, expressing his belief that it will successfully lead the country toward prosperity.

He assured that Saudi Arabia stands with Bangladesh and will continue to do so in the future, offering support whenever needed.

The ambassador highlighted that around 3.2 million Bangladeshis are currently employed in Saudi Arabia, contributing significantly to their home country. Through official channels, they send $5 billion in remittances annually, with another $5 billion flowing through unofficial channels.

He also requested the adviser to prioritize the passport renewal process for 69,000 unregistered individuals residing in Saudi Arabia.

The adviser assured the ambassador that the passport renewal process for Bangladeshi expatriates in Saudi Arabia would be expedited.

Ambassador Al-Duhailan further emphasized the importance of enhancing economic relations between the two countries, stating that Saudi Arabia is interested in investing more in Bangladesh.

He also mentioned that if a proposal from the ministry for investment in the IT sector is received, they would consult with Saudi IT experts to explore investment opportunities.

The ambassador highlighted the misinformation and false news circulating about Saudi Arabia and its royal family in Bangladeshi media and social networks, warning that it could negatively impact the relationship between the two countries. In response, the adviser expressed regret.

He assured that measures would be taken to ensure that no false information about any country, including Saudi Arabia, is broadcast in the Bangladeshi media.

The meeting concluded with discussions on bilateral interests.