Bangladesh seeks easier visas, wider air connectivity to boost tourism ties

DHAKA, Oct 7: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has urged foreign diplomats and embassies in Bangladesh to facilitate easier visa procedures for travellers, saying greater mobility could help expand bilateral relations, tourism and people-to-people contacts.

He also said the government is working to connect major tourism destinations with international air routes, with Cox’s Bazar receiving particular priority, while plans are also being considered to connect Khulna and Sylhet more closely with international aviation networks.

The minister made the remarks at “The Great Tuna Gala – Flavours from the Sunny Side”, hosted by the Maldives High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday night.

High Commissioner of Maldives to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed presided over the function.
Among others, Deputy High Commissioner Ali Shaah was present in the function.

“Easing visa facilities can create great opportunities to extend bilateral relations,” Millat told the gathering, urging foreign diplomatic missions to facilitate travel for tourists and other visitors between Bangladesh and their respective countries.

He said Bangladesh was seeking to strengthen international air connectivity, particularly to destinations with significant tourism potential.

Cox’s Bazar, Khulna and Sylhet could play a greater role in Bangladesh’s tourism economy if connectivity is expanded, the minister said.

Millat also highlighted Bangladesh’s long history, culture and heritage, saying the government wants to translate these assets into greater tourism opportunities.

“Bangladesh has a huge history, and the present government is trying to transform this history into the tourism sector,” he said.

Pointing to the Maldives as an example, Millat said Bangladesh could learn from how the island nation has developed its tourism sector and positioned tourism as an important part of its economy.

He also underscored the scope for Bangladesh-Maldives cooperation in tourism and fisheries, saying the two countries could work together on sustainable fisheries, tourism development and promotion.

The minister emphasised closer cooperation in tourism promotion and the creation of new avenues for collaboration between Dhaka and Male.

Maldives High Commissioner to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed earlier highlighted the Maldives’ close relationship with the ocean and the importance of fisheries to its economy, communities and culture.

She said the Maldives was interested in expanding its tuna and other fisheries products in the Bangladesh market, while also seeking to deepen cooperation with Dhaka in tourism, trade and sustainable fisheries.

The gala brought together around 250 guests, including senior government representatives, diplomats, business leaders, tourism and fisheries industry stakeholders and media representatives.

The event showcased the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line tuna fishing, sustainable fisheries practices and culinary heritage, alongside its tourism attractions.

For Bangladesh, the discussion comes as Dhaka seeks to strengthen international tourism connectivity and attract more foreign visitors while exploring new areas of economic cooperation with countries such as the Maldives.

Improved air connectivity and easier visa procedures could therefore become important components of Bangladesh’s broader efforts to expand tourism, trade and people-to-people links with its international partners.