Dhaka, Oct 22 (V7N) – The Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abdulla Ali AlHmoudi, has assured Bangladesh of swift resolution of visa issues affecting Bangladeshi nationals. The pledge was made during a courtesy meeting with Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, according to an official press release issued Tuesday.

During the meeting, the foreign secretary urged the ambassador to address the restrictions on visa issuance, including pending employment visas, to ensure smoother workforce mobility.

Jashim Uddin emphasized the interim government's reforms aimed at fostering political and economic stability, which are critical for growth across various sectors. He also expressed appreciation for the UAE government's general pardon extended to convicted Bangladeshi nationals who had shown solidarity with the student-led mass movement in Bangladesh.

Discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral ties, increasing economic cooperation, and addressing issues such as easing visa procedures, boosting trade and investment, and supporting social welfare projects between the two nations.

Ambassador AlHmoudi acknowledged the significant presence of the Bangladeshi diaspora working in key sectors such as hospitality, finance, banking, and health in the UAE. The talks touched on investment and business development opportunities, with the ambassador highlighting the interest of prominent UAE entities, including DP World, MASDAR, Dnata, and the Al-Nahiyan Trust, in strengthening cooperation with Bangladesh.

The foreign secretary expressed gratitude for the vital remittances sent by expatriates in the UAE, acknowledging their contribution to Bangladesh's economic growth. Both parties also discussed the possibility of high-level political exchanges to further advance bilateral cooperation.

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