Bangladesh has urged the government of Saudi Arabia to increase the number of flights in a bid to help expatriate Bangladeshis back to their workplace in due time.

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Sunday made the plea during a telephone conversation with his Saudi Counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Sunday evening, said a foreign ministry press release. 

Abdul Momen also asked Prince Faisal to commence flight operation on Dammam route as soon as possible.

Currently, Bangladesh Biman Airlines conducts flights operation to Riyadh, Madina and Jeddah  

The two foreign ministers also discussed bilateral and current issues over phone. 

During the phone conversation, Bangladesh foreign minister thanked the Saudi government for permitting flights from Bangladesh and extending the validity of expired iqamas (residence permits), as well as exit and re-entry visas of expatriates.

Hundreds of Saudi returnees, who were stranded in Bangladesh due to the coronavirus shutdown, are eagerly waiting to get the tickets for returning to their workplaces in the middle-eastern country.

BDST: 1955 HRS, SEP 27, 2020
AP/SMS