Kamrul Hasan : Efforts are gaining momentum to leverage the Maldives’ experience in order to modernize Bangladesh’s tourism sector and make it more competitive and aligned with international standards. In this context, a courtesy meeting was held between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, and the Maldives Ambassador to Bangladesh, H.E. Shiuneen Rasheed.

The meeting took place at the minister’s office at 12:00 pm on Monday (April 27). State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M.
Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP, was also present. Both sides emphasized strengthening and making more effective the existing friendly relations between the two countries.

The discussion particularly highlighted Bangladesh’s promising tourism sector. Referring to the Maldives as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, both sides underscored the importance of utilizing Maldivian experience to develop Bangladesh’s coastal tourism.

Detailed discussions were held on potential technical assistance and knowledge exchange to upgrade Cox’s Bazar and Kuakata sea beaches to international standards.

Both parties expressed interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance institutional cooperation in the tourism sector. Stakeholders believe that once implemented, such an agreement could lead to visible progress in: Tourism infrastructure development Human resource capacity buildingJoint investments and project implementation Coordinated initiatives to attract international tourists

At present, the Government of Bangladesh considers tourism a key driver of economic growth. The sector holds strong potential for earning foreign currency, generating employment, and promoting regional development. In this regard, cooperation with a successful tourism-dependent country like the Maldives is viewed by analysts as strategically significant for Bangladesh.

During the meeting, Ambassador Shiuneen Rasheed expressed strong commitment to working closely with Bangladesh and assured continued support to the current government.

The minister, on the other hand, expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral relations.
Overall, the meeting is seen as opening new avenues in Bangladesh-Maldives relations, which could play an important role in achieving sustainable development and global standards in the tourism sector in the future.