Minister seeks US cooperation in developing aviation and tourism sector

During the meeting, discussions were held on further strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and the United States and on the development of the aviation and tourism sectors. The minister said the government has taken various initiatives, including formulating an aviation master plan, to build Bangladesh as a regional aviation hub. He also mentioned initiatives to introduce a modern air traffic management system at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and establish an international airport in Bogura.

Noting that initiatives have been taken to buy new aircraft to develop Biman Bangladesh Airlines as an international-standard airline, the minister said an agreement has already been signed to purchase 14 Boeing aircraft. At the same time, he said the government is working with the goal of launching direct Dhaka-New York flights.

To develop the tourism sector, the minister also said private investment is being encouraged to upgrade 1,498 tourist spots in the country into international-standard destinations.

The US ambassador assured cooperation in Bangladesh's efforts to build an aviation hub. He said US investors are interested in Bangladesh's aviation and tourism sectors. The United States will also provide necessary cooperation in launching direct Dhaka-New York flights.