Albania expresses interest in hiring Bangladeshi workers

Albania has expressed formal interest in recruiting both skilled and unskilled workers from Bangladesh to meet its growing labour market demand.

The proposal was made by Albanian President Bajram Begaj during a meeting with Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (25 September) on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York.

President Begaj noted that several Albanian companies have already applied to hire workers from Bangladesh and emphasized the potential for enhanced bilateral cooperation, particularly in the tourism sector.

He also invited Bangladeshi tourists to explore Albania’s southern coastal regions.

Welcoming the initiative, Dr Yunus highlighted the capacity of Bangladesh’s young and dynamic workforce to contribute meaningfully to Albania’s economic growth. He urged the Albanian government to simplify visa procedures, noting that Bangladeshi nationals currently need to travel to New Delhi to apply.

In response, President Begaj said Albania is considering the introduction of an e-visa system for Bangladeshi citizens. He also stressed the importance of high-level official exchanges and institutional engagement to strengthen ties.

Asif Nazrul, the Adviser in charge of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare, underlined Bangladesh's readiness to supply a diverse labour force, including healthcare professionals, factory workers, and agricultural labourers. He also proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize cooperation.

President Begaj further noted that Albanian universities are open to welcoming Bangladeshi students under their existing international enrolment framework.