Desk Report:
On Tuesday (September 29, 2026) at 6:00 PM, M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP, Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, attended as the chief guest an event titled “A Cocktail Reception to highlight UK investment in Bangladesh’s Tourism Sector,” held at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Baridhara.
Speaking as the chief guest, the Minister stated that Bangladesh is a country rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity. We possess the Sundarbans—the world’s largest mangrove forest; Cox’s Bazar—the world’s longest unbroken natural sea beach; the enchanting hills and lakes of Chattogram; the lush green tea gardens of Sylhet; and, above all, the warm hospitality of our people. Bangladesh’s tourism potential is not limited to just a few well-known destinations; almost every region of the country holds its own unique stories of history, heritage, culture, and beauty. Our current goal is to transform these scattered potentials into a well-planned, sustainable, and internationally competitive tourism and hospitality industry.
The Minister further added that our Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, is working to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and simplify the investment climate to foster the growth of the tourism sector. As part of a broader program for economic diversification and job creation, we are generating wider opportunities for private investment. Encouraging both domestic and foreign investment in the tourism and hospitality sectors is one of our top priorities.
Regarding initiatives in the aviation sector, the Minister noted the deep connection between the development of the aviation industry and the tourism sector. Consequently, we are currently working to build a sustainable and balanced mixed fleet for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, comprising both Boeing and Airbus aircraft. At the same time, I seek the British High Commission’s cooperation regarding a crucial aspect of our air cargo sector. Since June 2017, the European Union has classified cargo and mail originating from Bangladesh as “High Risk Cargo & Mail.” We have been consistently working to address the European Union’s concerns regarding this matter.
The Minister stated that in an assessment conducted by the UK Department for Transport on July 17, 2026, Osmani International Airport achieved a score of 98 percent, while Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport scored 94 percent. Therefore, we look forward to the cooperation and support of the British High Commission in securing the early withdrawal of these restrictions.
The Minister further remarked that the United Kingdom has always been a genuine friend to Bangladesh. The people of the UK stood by us during the struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh. We hope they will continue to stand by us in the development and expansion of Bangladesh’s tourism sector. I call upon UK investors to come to Bangladesh and invest in our tourism and hospitality sectors. We welcome your investment and are committed to ensuring a favorable, safe, and promising investment environment. I firmly believe that under the leadership of our Honorable Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the historic and friendly relations between Bangladesh and the UK will be further strengthened in the days ahead.
Representatives from Britain, Germany, France, Spain, and the European Union, along with the Chief Executive of the Bangladesh Tourism Board, the Chairman of the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, and the Chairman and Managing Director of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, were present at the event.
