DHAKA, Aug 23, 2023 (BSS) - Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah today said that Riyadh sees "sky is the limit" for Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations as both the countries have room to explore ample opportunities.

"We want to make our ties stronger. Sky is the limit, and the ties are already very strong. We have a lot of opportunities," he told reporters after holding meeting with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam at the state guesthouse Padma.

He said the two countries also have good cooperation in the area of investment, and the Saudi minister for Investment will be visiting Bangladesh soon to promote further investments here.

Lauding the impressive economic growth of Bangladesh, the Saudi minister said that his country will continue to work together with Dhaka for further development.

Terming Bangladesh as a fast growing economy in South Asia, he said Riyadh is aware of Bangladesh's 2041 goals.

"I am truly impressed with the development that Bangladesh is witnessing," the minister said.

Mentioning that Saudi Arabia is hosting nearly 3 million Bangladeshis, the largest expatriate Bangladeshi community, he said, "We are here to facilitate Bangladeshis to come and visit Makkah and Madinah. The process is made very simple and efficient." he said.

Umrah visa has been extended to 90 days from 30 days, so that Bangladeshis can visit any city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He said adding, initiatives have been taken to help Bangladeshi citizens to book everything from one site.

Shahriar Alam said Bangladesh has always stood beside Saudi Arabia on strategic issues.

"We are working together on many fronts," he said, adding, "We hope that we can continue to help the Saudi Arabia by sending hard-working and efficient human resources."

The state minister said there are some significant positive changes in Hajj management, making it almost hassle-free.

Alam said they discussed cooperation on trade and commerce front and how to showcase Bangladesh in a more lucrative way in Saudi Arabia.