Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today expressed hope that the UAE government will soon open the door for worker visas for Bangladeshis. UAE is investing in Bangladesh, focusing on the halal meat and fish processing sectors. UAE investing in Bangladesh will open doors for industrial zone projects.

He addressed the matter while speaking to the nation on the occasion of Independence Day and the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.

“Recently, I visited the United Arab Emirates. During the previous government’s tenure, they had closed their visa services for us. We are continuously working to open the doors for visas to that country. They have assured us that they will complete all formalities from their side and will open the visa doors soon. I hope that this will happen very soon.”

Prof Yunus said, “I have proposed to the UAE to set up an industrial zone in our country. They have shown interest in this. They plan to start with two projects in the industrial zone, and discussions have begun”

The first project will be the establishment of a halal meat processing plant to supply to the Muslim world. After that, they will set up a fish processing plant. They have also expressed interest in managing our new seaport, he said.

Referring to his China visit tomorrow, Prof Yunus said discussions will be held on technological assistance, medical support, affordable healthcare, and other areas.

“Through this visit, the relationship between our two countries will become closer.”

He also said, “I have always said that we are a very fortunate nation because of our position on the world map. If Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan can establish a joint economy in South Asia, all four countries will benefit. Nepal and Bhutan are very interested in supplying us with hydropower, and we are eager to receive it. There is no alternative to this for establishing Bangladesh’s industrial zones.”

_{Source: The Daily Star}