Oman Halts Visas for Bangladeshi Citizens

Bangladesh's overseas migration dropped by 27.4% in 2024, with migrant numbers falling to 10,09,146 from 13,90,811 in 2023, according to Ami Probashi's Annual Report 2024. The sharp decline, particularly between May and September, was attributed to political and economic instabilities.

The EU-funded €3 million Talent Partnership project aims to bridge the skills gap between Bangladesh and the EU, facilitating legal migration and reducing irregular migration. The project, implemented by the ILO, MoEWOE, and BMET, will train 3,000 workers to meet EU employment standards.

Saudi Arabia inaugurated Bangladesh Cultural Week on 20 November 2024 at Al Suwaidi Park in Riyadh, running until 23 November. Organized as part of the Global Harmony initiative by the Ministry of Media, the event highlights the contributions of over 3 million Bangladeshi migrants to the Kingdom's development.

Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Finance Adviser, emphasized addressing the rural-urban divide to prevent excessive migration to cities. Speaking at the Rural and Peri-Urban Housing Finance Project's second phase launch, he praised BHBFC's Shariah-compliant housing initiative funded by the Islamic Development Bank (ISDB).

Libya has expressed interest in hiring more Bangladeshi workers, including doctors and engineers, and invited Bangladeshi students to study in its universities. The Libyan ambassador acknowledged the contributions of Bangladeshi workers, especially in agriculture, and addressed salary issues for Bangladeshi doctors.