Parliament Correspondent: The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh, Dr. Abdullah Jafar bin Abiyah, paid a courtesy call on Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, at his office in the Sangsad Bhaban in the capital on Tuesday.

During the meeting, the Speaker highlighted the deep-rooted fraternal relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, underscoring the strong bonds shared by the two nations. He noted that every year a significant number of Bangladeshi pilgrims travel to Makkah and Madinah to perform Hajj, adding that this enduring religious connection continues to strengthen mutual respect and long-term friendship between the peoples of both countries, according to a press release.

The Speaker also referred to Bangladesh’s recent democratic developments, stating that the Jatiya Sangsad election held in February 2026 reflects the country’s democratic progress. He further remarked that democratic rights had been undermined during the past 16 years of elections under the previous Awami League government.

Both sides discussed ways to enhance inter-parliamentary cooperation, including the possible formation of a parliamentary friendship group between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. They also exchanged views on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

During the meeting, the Speaker urged the Saudi Ambassador to play an effective role through the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in addressing the Rohingya crisis.

Members of the Saudi Embassy delegation and senior officials of the Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat were present at the meeting.