Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita served as the chief guest at the "Nepal Cultural Evening" held at the Manikganj District Shilpakala Academy today. Photo: BSS

MANIKGANJ, May 16, 2026 (BSS) - Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita today called for strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal through enhanced air connectivity and expanded cooperation in culture and tourism.

She made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a "Nepal Cultural Evening" held at Manikganj District Shilpakala Academy.

Nepalese Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari also attended the programme. The Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka and Bangladesh Nepal Friendship Society organised the event with support from the district administration. 

Afroza Khanam Rita said Bangladesh and Nepal share longstanding friendly relations and expressed hope for deeper future cooperation between the two countries. 

Nepalese Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari said his country is keen to further strengthen relations with Bangladesh through increased cultural and diplomatic engagement, adding that such programmes help reinforce long-standing ties.

Speakers included Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Sarwar Alam, Bangladesh Nepal Friendship Society President Moshiur Rahman and General Secretary Salahuddin Kutu, among others.

A two-hour cultural performance by artists from Nepal and Bangladesh captivated the audience.