Bangladesh, UAE discuss manpower, security cooperation

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Bangladesh, Abdulla Ali Khaseif Al-Hamoudi, have discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in manpower export, security, and investment between the two countries.

The discussions were held during a courtesy meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka on Saturday, said a ministry press release.

Both sides exchanged views on a range of issues, including law and order cooperation, prevention of human trafficking, expansion of skilled labour recruitment, and enhancement of mutual legal assistance.

The UAE envoy highlighted the long-standing friendly ties between Dhaka and Abu Dhabi, noting that around 2 million Bangladeshi expatriates are currently working in the UAE and contributing to the economies of both countries.

He also pointed to rising demand in the UAE for skilled workers, particularly drivers and gardeners, and expressed interest in recruiting trained manpower from Bangladesh. He added that drivers must complete a six-month specialised training programme under UAE regulations before employment.

The home minister assured full cooperation from Bangladesh in supplying skilled manpower and proposed a joint initiative to establish a six-month internationally standard driving training programme in Bangladesh.

He also stressed the possibility of introducing a unified driving training framework for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and said a proposal would be sent to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment for further action.

The UAE ambassador further expressed interest in expanding investment in Bangladesh, particularly in sectors such as cybersecurity, information technology, and other emerging industries.

The home minister welcomed the proposal and said Bangladesh is ready to extend all necessary support.

The two sides also discussed cooperation on combating human trafficking. The ambassador said a memorandum of understanding on the issue is ready for signing.

In response, the minister proposed a broader Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty covering human trafficking and other criminal matters, aimed at strengthening legal and security cooperation between the two countries.

Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs were also present at the meeting