Bangladesh’s government has sought Japan’s support in its effort to develop the country into a regional aviation hub and deepen cooperation in civil aviation and tourism. The request was made during a Wednesday morning courtesy meeting at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism between Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat and Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi. The ambassador congratulated Millat on assuming responsibility as a full minister.

The two sides discussed the current government’s plans for developing Bangladesh’s civil aviation and tourism sectors. Millat described Japan as a trusted development partner and cited Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ recently launched direct Dhaka-Narita flight as reflecting Bangladesh’s growing interest and firm commitment to expanding connectivity and cooperation between the two countries.

On Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s third terminal, the minister said the government is determined to inaugurate it on time and must begin Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer activities quickly. He said techno-financial evaluation of a Japanese sub-working group proposal has been completed, with negotiations set to begin next week. The ministry is also working on a letter of assurance for the terminal’s operation. Japan’s ambassador reaffirmed Tokyo’s commitment to closely support implementation of the government’s election manifesto.