Key Takeaways:
- Bangladeshi PM asked Saudi Arabia to extend Hajj visa approval time for pilgrims to ensure timely participation.
- Over 10,000 Bangladeshi pilgrims await visa approval; Saudi working to resolve delays.
- Saudi Arabia shows investment interest in Bangladesh, and Bangladesh plans more aid for Palestine.
PM Asks Saudi Arabia to Extend Hajj Visa Approval Time for Bangladeshi Pilgrims
Why Does Bangladesh Seek an Extension for Hajj Visa Approval Time?
On Monday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to extend the visa approval period for Hajj pilgrims. This request was made during a meeting with the Saudi ambassador, Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan, at the PM’s official residence, Ganabhaban.
Quoted by PM’s speech writer Md Nazrul Islam, Sheikh Hasina stated, “Saudi Arabia should extend visa approval time for Hajj pilgrims so they can perform Hajj.” The request aims to ensure that all pilgrims receive their visas in time to participate in the sacred rites.
Current Hajj Visa Issues
Over 10,000 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims still await visa approval from Saudi Arabia due to various complications. The Saudi ambassador disclosed that he was working towards resolving these delays to ensure all pilgrims received their visas promptly.
Saudi Investment Interests in Bangladesh
Furthermore, the Saudi envoy expressed keen interest from Saudi investors and companies to engage in several projects in Bangladesh. He handed a list of these potential projects to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The Prime Minister assured the ambassador that relevant ministries and divisions would scrutinize these proposals before proceeding. This approach aims to foster beneficial collaborations that serve both nations’ interests.
Bangladesh’s Stance on Palestine
In her conversation with the Saudi envoy, Sheikh Hasina touched upon the ongoing situation in Palestine. She announced that Bangladesh was preparing to send another consignment of aid to the Palestinian people, adding to the assistance that has already been dispatched twice.
“The whole world is behind Palestine except the USA and its few allies,” remarked the Prime Minister, highlighting the global support for Palestine.
Contribution of Bangladeshi Workers in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi ambassador noted that approximately 3.2 million Bangladeshis reside in Saudi Arabia, contributing significantly to the economies of both countries.
To enhance remittance flows, Sheikh Hasina encouraged the envoy to promote legal remittance channels among the Bangladeshi diaspora in Saudi Arabia. This move aims to boost the economic ties between the two nations further.
How Can Bangladeshis Ensure Smooth Hajj Travels?
- Stay Updated: Pilgrims should monitor official announcements from both the Bangladesh and Saudi Arabian governments regarding visa procedures and timelines.
Legal Channels: Ensure all applications for Hajj travel are submitted through authorized and legal channels to avoid complications.
Documentation: Keep all necessary documents ready and verified to avoid delays in the visa approval process.
External Resources: For the latest updates on visa procedures and approvals, visit the official Saudi Arabian government website.
Conclusion
The timely approval of Hajj visas is crucial for enabling Bangladeshi pilgrims to participate in this significant religious event. The ongoing discussions and efforts by both the Bangladeshi and Saudi governments highlight the importance of this issue. Ensuring smooth and efficient processes will benefit the pilgrims and strengthen the bilateral ties between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.
By working together, these two nations can ensure that every aspiring pilgrim is given the opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations with ease and dignity.
Learn Today:
Glossary or Definitions Section
- Hajj Visa: A specific type of visa required by Muslims wishing to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This visa is issued by the Saudi Arabian government and is crucial for legally performing the religious rites associated with Hajj.
Pilgrims: Individuals who travel to a sacred place for religious reasons. In the context of this content, pilgrims refer specifically to Muslims traveling to Mecca to perform Hajj.
Visa Approval Period: The timeframe during which a visa application is processed and either approved or denied by the issuing authority. An extension of this period means that applicants have more time to obtain their approvals, which can be especially important during peak travel seasons like Hajj.
Remittance: The money sent by expatriates back to their home countries. In this context, it refers to the funds transferred by Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia to their families in Bangladesh. Promoting legal remittance channels helps ensure that these funds are transferred securely and efficiently.
Embassy: An official office or residence maintained by a country in a foreign city, usually the capital. It is responsible for representing its country’s government, handling visa applications, and assisting its citizens abroad. Here, the Saudi Arabian embassy in Bangladesh plays a key role in managing visa processes and bilateral relations.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Bangladesh’s PM seeks extended Hajj visa approval time from Saudi Arabia to aid Bangladeshi pilgrims. Over 10,000 await visas. Both countries aim to resolve delays. Saudi Arabia eyes investments in Bangladesh projects. PM ensures scrutiny for beneficial collaborations. Bangladesh supports Palestine with aid. 3.2 million Bangladeshi workers contribute to Saudi Arabia’s economy. Hajj travelers advised to stay updated, use legal channels, and prepare documentation.
— By VisaVerge.com
