"I'm hopeful," the Foreign Minister told reporters after his meeting with Malaysian Human Resource Minister M Kula Segaran.

He said the Malaysian minister will have discussions in details with Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmad in this regard.

"I told him (Malaysian minister) you’ll be a national hero here if you declare the opening of the market....you’ll win if you take part in elections," Dr Momen told the Malaysian minister at the meeting in an apparent humorous mood.

"I found him positive," Momen said, adding that they also discussed bilateral trade and investment issues.

The recruitment of Bangladeshi workers remains halted over the last two years, and the government is working to overcome the ‘weaknesses’, if any.

Dr Momen informed the Malaysian minister that Bangladeshis are very hardworking and quick learners as they played a role in building towns and cities in the Middle East.    

He said reopening of labour market in Malaysia for Bangladeshis will bring benefits for both the countries.

The two countries are expecting a decision soon.  
      
The Foreign Minister invited Malaysian investors to invest in Bangladesh as Bangladesh offers an investment-friendly environment and other facilities.       

"It’ll be a win-win [situation] for both the countries if they invest here," he said adding that the return of investment is very high and Bangladesh is a very good ground for that.

The Foreign Minister mentioned about economic zones being built across the country that offer good packages for foreign investment.             

He said Malaysia is one of the largest investors in Bangladesh, and Bangladesh wants more investment, especially agro-processing factories.                   

The Foreign Minister also discussed Rohingya issue with the Malaysian Minister and noted Malaysia's support since the very beginning of Rohingya crisis.

"They’ve supported Bangladesh in all international forums, including the UN. They’ll continue to support us."