Diplomatic Desk:
The government has expressed interest in collaborating with Lufthansa, Germany’s leading airline, to develop the country’s aviation sector and establish Bangladesh as a regional aviation hub. Bangladesh has also sought Lufthansa’s cooperation in setting up Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities and developing a skilled workforce within the country.
On Tuesday (October 6) at 12:00 PM, a Lufthansa delegation led by German Ambassador to Bangladesh Achim Tröster (referred to in the report as Rüdiger Lotz) paid a courtesy call on the State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, at his office. Discussions during the meeting covered air connectivity between Bangladesh and Germany, the development of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and various matters of mutual interest.
During the meeting, the Minister stated that there are significant opportunities to further expand cooperation in the civil aviation sector based on the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Germany. As Lufthansa is a world-renowned aviation entity, there is potential for collaboration to advance the country’s goal of becoming an aviation hub.
He noted that there are opportunities for Lufthansa to invest in establishing MRO facilities in Bangladesh. Additionally, Lufthansa could assist in developing a skilled workforce for the country’s aviation sector.
The meeting also addressed the ‘High-Risk Cargo and Mail’ (HRCM) status imposed by the European Union (EU) on cargo transport from Bangladesh—a status that has remained in effect since 2017. The Minister mentioned that the current government has taken various measures to improve airport security systems since assuming office.
He stated that Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and Osmani International Airport achieved ratings of over 90 percent in recently concluded security audits. Given this progress, the government seeks Germany’s cooperation in having the HRCM status withdrawn. The modernization of the Biman Bangladesh Airlines fleet was also a key topic during the meeting. The Minister stated that the government is working on signing an agreement to purchase 10 Airbus aircraft to enhance the airline’s capabilities. However, he emphasized the urgency of advancing the delivery schedule for these aircraft.
He stressed the importance of commencing the delivery of the Airbus aircraft prior to 2030.
During the meeting, both sides expressed interest in deepening existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Germany, as well as enhancing air connectivity and expanding mutual cooperation in the tourism sector.
Concluding the meeting, the Minister welcomed the German Ambassador and the Lufthansa delegation, expressing hope that mutual cooperation between Bangladesh and Germany would become even more extensive and fruitful in the future.
