New york: Albania has expressed a strong interest in recruiting skilled and semi-skilled workers from Bangladesh to meet its expanding labour market needs. The proposal was conveyed by Albanian President Bajram Begaj during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, President Begaj stated, 'We need workers for our country, and several Albanian companies have already submitted applications to hire from Bangladesh.' He highlighted the potential for broader bilateral cooperation, especially in sectors like tourism, and pointed to Albania's southern coastline as a promising destination for Bangladeshi travelers.
Chief Adviser Prof Yunus welcomed the initiative, noting Bangladesh's dynamic and youthful workforce as well-suited to support Albania's economic growth. He also urged the Albanian government to ease visa procedures, as Bangladeshi citizens currently have to travel to New Delhi to apply for visas.
In response, President Begaj suggested that Albania is considering the introduction of e-visas for Bangladeshi nationals. He also called for stronger institutional engagement, including high-level official visits, to advance cooperation.
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, who oversees the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare, affirmed Bangladesh's capacity to provide a wide range of manpower-from doctors and nurses to factory and agricultural workers. He emphasised the importance of signing a memorandum of understanding to streamline the recruitment process.
President Begaj also announced that Albanian universities are ready to welcome Bangladeshi students under existing international enrollment schemes. Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed was also present at the meeting.