Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari paid a courtesy call on Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat at the ministry this morning. Photo: Ministry

DHAKA, March 29, 2026 (BSS) - Nepal has shown keen interest in upgrading Saidpur Airport into an international airport, seeking Bangladesh's cooperation in boosting regional connectivity, trade and tourism in the sub-region. 

Kathmandu's interest was conveyed when Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari paid a courtesy call on Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat at the ministry this morning.

During the meeting, both sides underscored the need to further strengthen the existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal.

The Nepalese envoy sought Bangladesh's cooperation in developing Nepal's aviation and tourism sectors, particularly highlighting the importance of upgrading Saidpur Airport into an international airport.

The proposed upgradation of Saidpur Airport is seen as a strategic initiative to enhance regional air connectivity, especially linking northern Bangladesh with neighbouring countries, including Nepal, Bhutan and parts of India.

The two sides also held detailed discussions on setting airfare on the Dhaka-Kathmandu route at a reasonable level to facilitate passenger movement and tourism growth.

Both countries expressed optimism about working jointly to boost tourism and deepen sectoral cooperation.

The minister and state minister assured Nepal of Bangladesh's continued support in enhancing collaboration in aviation and tourism.