Amid his recent trip to Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud announced that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been invited to visit Bangladesh in the second half of 2024. Mahmud also attended a special meeting of foreign ministers of the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Palestine, advocating for a strong stance against Israel. In addition, he met with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha.
Bangladesh Strengthens Ties with Saudi Arabia, Pushes for Palestine Support
Bangladesh has taken significant strides in strengthening its ties with Saudi Arabia and advocating for the rights of Palestinians. Amid Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud's recent trip to Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, several important developments have emerged.
Saudi Crown Prince's Visit
During his meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Mahmud extended an invitation to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Bangladesh in the second half of 2024. This visit would mark a significant milestone in bilateral relations between the two countries.
OIC Meeting on Palestine
Mahmud also attended a special meeting of foreign ministers of the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Palestine. At the meeting, he advocated for a strong stance against Israeli aggression and human rights violations in the occupied territories. Bangladesh has consistently supported Palestine's right to self-determination and a two-state solution to the conflict.
Background
Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia have enjoyed close ties for decades. The Gulf nation is a major labor market for Bangladeshi workers and a significant investor in Bangladesh's economy. In 2023, the two countries celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Bangladesh has also played an active role in the OIC, which represents 57 Muslim-majority countries. The country has served as a member of the OIC's Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission, and it has consistently supported the organization's efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and combat Islamophobia.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When is Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expected to visit Bangladesh? In the second half of 2024.
2. What was the main focus of Foreign Minister Mahmud's meeting with the Saudi Foreign Minister? To discuss bilateral relations and extend an invitation to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
3. What position did Bangladesh take at the OIC meeting on Palestine? Bangladesh advocated for a strong stance against Israeli aggression and support for Palestinian rights.
4. How important are ties with Saudi Arabia for Bangladesh? Saudi Arabia is a major labor market and investor in Bangladesh, and it plays a significant role in the country's economy.
5. What role has Bangladesh played in the OIC? Bangladesh has served as a member of the OIC's Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission and has supported the organization's efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and combat Islamophobia.
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