Monday
27 July, 2026
News Flash
News Flash
DHAKA, July 27, 2026 (BSS) - Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam today said the government is working to transform Bangladesh into a regional aviation hub connecting South Asia with the wider world.
"Our goal is to establish Bangladesh as a regional aviation hub that will connect South Asia with the wider world," she said.
The minister was addressing as the chief guest at an event titled "Saudia and HSBC: Powering Global Connectivity-Celebrating Saudia's Journey in Bangladesh" at a city hotel this evening.
Afroza said Bangladesh is entering a new era in its aviation journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, with the government focusing on modernising airport infrastructure, improving passenger services and expanding international air connectivity.
"In this journey, we warmly welcome international airlines, financial institutions and strategic investors," she said.
Highlighting Saudia's longstanding operations in Bangladesh, the minister said the Saudi flag carrier has been serving the country for 46 years, connecting millions of passengers and facilitating international travel for Bangladeshi workers.
She also praised the airline's role in providing safe and reliable travel for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.
"Saudia has established itself not only as an airline, but also as an important bridge of friendship between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia," Afroza said.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Investment and Capital Market Affairs Tanvir Ghani, Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah ibn Dhafer ibn Ubayya, and senior officials of Saudia, HSBC Bank and different organisations attended the event.
Speakers stressed the need for further strengthening air connectivity, trade, investment, tourism and people-to-people contacts between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.
They also highlighted the aviation sector's growing role in expanding global connectivity and discussed prospects for future cooperation.
