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CA's Dubai Visit Strengthens Bangladesh-UAE Ties
Says Shafiqul Alam
Professor Muhammad Yunus' recent tour to Dubai has significantly strengthened the ties between Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to Shafiqul Alam, the Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser.
"Our most significant achievement from the Chief Adviser's visit is the closer relationship we now have with the UAE," Alam remarked during a press conference held in Dubai on February 13, as reported in a statement received later.
Alam elaborated on the historical context, noting that a gap had developed in Bangladesh-UAE relations during the previous Awami League government, leading to the suspension of UAE visas for Bangladeshi nationals. This interruption, he explained, had negative consequences for Bangladeshi expatriates living in the UAE, many of whom depend on access to the UAE job market.
He added that while the UAE remains a major destination for Bangladeshi workers, access to employment opportunities had gradually declined due to the strained relations between the two nations.
The Chief Adviser’s visit included key meetings with UAE ministers and business leaders, particularly focusing on mutual interests such as the lifting of visa restrictions on Bangladeshi citizens, enhancing trade relations, and exploring investment opportunities in Bangladesh's Chittagong Port. The discussions also extended to strengthening cooperation in sports and education.
Prof. Yunus actively engaged with the Bangladeshi expatriate community in Dubai as part of his participation in the World Government Summit (WGS) on February 13. During an interactive session at the summit, moderated by CNN’s Becky Anderson, Prof. Yunus emphasized the importance of closer ties between the two nations for the benefit of both peoples.
Earlier in the day, the UAE Minister of Health, Abdul Rahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, met with the Chief Adviser. Additionally, UAE Trade Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi held a productive meeting with Prof. Yunus.
Prof. Yunus wrapped up his visit on February 14, after attending the WGS, and was seen off at Dubai Airport by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE’s Minister for Sports. The Chief Adviser is expected to return to Bangladesh later today.
The Chief Adviser’s delegation included Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain, Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi, and Senior Secretary and Chief SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed.