The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Muscat

Foreign Adviser Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, who is also in charge of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment was told that Bangladeshi workers were welcome in Oman by Fahd bin Mahmoud Al-Said, the Deputy Prime Minister of Oman when the Adviser called on him at his office here on Saturday.

The Foreign Adviser was accompanied in the call by the Minister of Manpower of Oman Dr Juma Al-Juma.

Earlier, Dr Iftekhar and Dr Juma signed two bilateral agreements; one, a Memorandum of Understanding on Manpower, and the other, on Avoidance of Double Taxation.

"The signing of the two accords are a historic event," Dr Iftekhar told newsmen later, "These will not only allow more Bangladeshi workers to come into Oman and protect their interests, but also expand trade and economic relations, particularly in air transportation".

Oman had just resumed issuing visas to Bangladeshi workers after twelve years just recently. Dr Juma Al Juma had visited Bangladesh in December last year and held talks with Dr Iftekhar, when they agreed to sign the Manpower Agreement to formalise the understandings.

The Agreement was approved by the Cabinets of Bangladesh and Oman earlier this month.

Dr Iftekhar also met separately with Dr Juma.

He also visited the Police and Immigration Headquarters in Muscat and held talks with the officials on relevant issues pertaining to Bangladeshi workforce. On both occasions he requested that Oman import more manpower from Bangladesh to satisfy its needs for expatriate labour.

Dr Iftekhar also requested that the Bangladeshi national extradited to Oman Mohamad Momin Mia be returned to Bangladesh at the end of the legal proceedings.

"I have also urged upon Omani authorities to open an Embassy in Dhaka, which many countries have begun to do now, "Dr Iftekhar told the reporters adding, "that will enable us to expand not only bilateral cooperation but also develop a strategic relationship in the international arena".

The Foreign Adviser held a meeting with the Bangladeshi community representatives in the afternoon and asked them to abide by local rules and regulations, and regularise their status.

He assured them that the Embassy will accord them all possible assistance.

Dr Iftekhar who arrived in Muscat on a one-day visit the previous night was received by the Omani Manpower Minister Dr Juma and other Omani officials at the Airport. The Bangladesh Envoy in Oman Ambassador Md Abdul Hannan was also present.

The Foreign Adviser will return to Bangladesh today.