Albania keen to recruit Bangladeshi workers, boost bilateral ties

The southeastern European is considering the introduction of e-visas for Bangladeshis

Albanian President Bajram Begaj holds talks with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday. Photo: Press Wing, Chief Adviser's Office

Albania has expressed interest in recruiting both skilled and unskilled workers from Bangladesh.

The southeastern European country's President Bajram Begaj made the proposal during a meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Thursday on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to state news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS).

“We need workers for our country, and several Albanian companies have already submitted applications to hire from Bangladesh,” Begaj is quoted as saying by BSS.

He added that bilateral cooperation could expand further, particularly in the tourism sector, and invited Bangladeshi tourists to visit Albania’s southern coast.

Yunus welcomed the proposal, saying Bangladesh’s young and energetic workforce could contribute to Albania’s economic growth. He also called on the Albanian government to simplify visa procedures, noting that Bangladeshi citizens currently need to travel to New Delhi to apply.

In response, Begaj said Albania was considering the introduction of e-visas for Bangladeshis. He also stressed the importance of strengthening institutional ties, including through high-level visits.

Adviser Asif Nazrul, who oversees the expatriates’ welfare ministry, said that Bangladesh could supply a diverse labour force, ranging from doctors and nurses to factory and agricultural workers. He emphasised the need to sign a memorandum of understanding to formalise recruitment.

Begaj also said that Albanian universities were ready to welcome Bangladeshi students under their existing international admission framework.