kamrul Hasan : The government has un dertaken multifaceted initiatives to upgrade the country’s tourism industry and civil aviation sector to international standards. In particular, emphasis is being placed on infrastructural development, foreign investment, and the expansion of modern aviation services to transform Cox’s Bazar — home to the world’s longest natural sea beach — into an international tourism destination, said Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroz Khanam Rita, MP.

She made these remarks during a meeting held on Tuesday (May 12) at the conference room of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism with a delegation from Türkiye-based international ground handling company Celebi Aviation.

During the meeting, both sides discussed in detail the modernization of Bangladesh’s airport management system, passenger services, international-standard ground handling operations, and the expansion of the tourism sector.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md. Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP, Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Mr. Ramis Sen, and Ministry Secretary Fahmida Akhtar (NDC) were also present at the meeting.

At the discussion, representatives of Celebi Aviation expressed their interest in becoming involved in ground handling operations at Bangladesh’s airports. They also expressed optimism about adding a new dimension to Bangladesh’s aviation sector through international technology, skilled manpower, and modern management systems.

In response, Minister Afroz Khanam Rita stated that the current government is working relentlessly to make the country’s airports more modern, secure, and passenger-friendly. Alongside preparations for the launch of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, plans have also been taken to upgrade regional airports to international standards.

She particularly emphasized the internationalization of Cox’s Bazar Airport, saying that the government aims to transform Cox’s Bazar into one of South Asia’s most attractive tourism and aviation hubs. To achieve this goal, international-standard ground handling and passenger services are being considered highly important.

The minister further stated that the proposal submitted by Celebi Aviation regarding ground handling operations would be positively considered. At the same time, she invited the company’s representatives to submit a detailed concept paper on potential operations and passenger service improvements at Cox’s Bazar Airport.

She also noted that the government is keen to increase foreign investment in the tourism sector through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models in collaboration with various countries. She expressed hope that Türkiye’s experience and technological support would help make Bangladesh’s tourism and aviation sectors more dynamic and competitive.

According to relevant analysts, the participation of international companies will play an effective role in improving airport management and passenger service standards in the country. At the same time, tourist destinations including Cox’s Bazar are expected to gain greater international recognition, leading to increased foreign investment and a significant rise in tourist arrivals.