Bangladesh News

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is likely to visit Saudi Arabia in the third week of this month to perform Umrah.

During her visit, she will discuss with the Saudi government on different bilateral issues and may sign an agreement aiming to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.

The prime minister may mention Awami League’s main electoral pledges during her meetings with Saudi leaders and seek their support to implement those pledges, including recruitment of more manpower from Bangladesh and greater economic assistance for Bangladesh to create employment facilities and alleviating poverty.

“During the trip, she is also likely to explain the issue of trying the war criminals and try to seek their understandings,” a senior minister told The Daily Star on condition anonymity.

“She is expected to request the Saudi government to take special measures so that no militant outfit in Bangladesh get fund from any Saudi organisation or individual,” he said, adding that Hasina will also seek cooperation to root out militancy from Bangladesh.

Earlier on February 3, Commerce Minister Faruk Khan said, “Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will go to Saudi Arabia within a few days and discuss with the Saudi government on the issues related to trade.”