Prime Minster (PM) Sheikh Hasina on Monday requested the Saudi government to recruit more manpower from Bangladesh for the benefits of the two friendly countries, reports UNB.

The PM made the request when a three-member delegation of Saudi Majlish-e-Shura, led by its Speaker Dr Abdullah Bin Mohammed Bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, paid a courtesy call on her at her official residence Ganobhaban.

Deputy Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Nazrul Islam briefed reporters after the meeting.

During the meeting, Hasina also urged the Saudi government to increase its investment in Bangladesh and bilateral trade between the two brotherly countries.

She said the people of Bangladesh give utmost importance to Makkah and Madina, the two holy places of Saudi Arabia. As a result, the number of Hajj pilgrims from Bangladesh is increasing every year, she noted.

The Prime Minister wished good health, long life and early recovery of the Saudi Crown Prince.

In response, the Saudi Speaker said he has already discussed the recruitment of more manpower from Bangladesh and boosting the trade and commerce with Bangladesh during a formal meeting with the Bangladesh Speaker.

The Saudi Speaker underscored the need for regular visits of high-level delegations of both the countries to further strengthen the bilateral ties.

Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah Bin Naser Al-Busairi, Bangladesh Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Md Shahidul Islam and Chair of Saudi-Bangladesh Friendship Group BH Harun MP were, among others, present.