Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh is preparing to finalise a historic bilateral labour agreement with Saudi Arabia within the next two to three weeks, Adviser Asif Nazrul announced on Saturday.
This first-of-its-kind deal represents a significant step forward in safeguarding the rights and welfare of Bangladeshi migrant workers – the largest group employed abroad in Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at the ‘Remittance Fighters’ Day’ event organised by the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka, Nazrul, also the Prime Minister’s Law Affairs Adviser, noted that previous administrations had not succeeded in securing such a comprehensive agreement, even with neighbouring countries like India and Pakistan.
The agreement is expected to strengthen legal protections, health and safety standards, and overall support for Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the government’s renewed focus on migrant welfare.
Nazrul further confirmed the resumption of labour migration to Malaysia and outlined measures to assist returning workers. “Our fully digitalised services aim to reduce harassment and streamline processes, providing a better experience for migrants,” he said.
He also warned prospective migrants against falling prey to dishonest recruitment agents. “While foreign employment remains a valuable opportunity, investing large sums-Tk 10 to 15 lakh-without adequate preparation carries significant risks,” he cautioned.
Stressing the importance of informed and safe migration, Nazrul advised, “Make well-considered decisions, verify all details thoroughly, and prioritise your safety and wellbeing abroad.”
This landmark agreement and ongoing reforms highlight Bangladesh’s commitment to improving the health, safety, and rights of its overseas workforce – key to the country’s economic and social progress.
