Dhaka: Ruling out any pressure from the US side over the purchase of additional Boeing aircraft, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir on Tuesday emphasized that the approach is demand-driven. Bangladesh aims to expand its aircraft fleet to open new routes, improve passenger services, and strengthen its position as an aviation gateway in Asia.
According to United News of Bangladesh, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia and Ambassador to India Sergio Gor recently announced that Bangladesh has committed billions of dollars to buy additional Boeing aircraft from the United States. This commitment comes under a new deal between Dhaka and Washington, marking a significant increase in their initial order. Gor highlighted the deal in a post on X, noting the collaboration between President Trump and Prime Minister of Bangladesh Tarique Rahman.
State Minister Kobir reiterated the necessity for Bangladesh, as an important aviation hub in Asia, to service more routes, which requires a larger fleet. Expanding the fleet and broadening the country’s route network are crucial steps for increasing revenue and establishing Bangladesh as an aviation hub in the long term. Kobir cited the growth of major airlines like Ethiopian Airlines as examples of how fleet expansion can support the development of an international aviation network.
In April, Bangladesh signed a deal with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing to purchase 14 planes for its national carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines. This deal, valued at $3.7 billion, marks the airline’s biggest-ever order. During his visit to Bangladesh from July 30 to August 1, Sergio Gor met with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman to discuss the political and economic dynamics shaping Bangladesh-US relations.
Regarding a potential visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India, Kobir stated that no date has been set. He emphasized that the timing of the visit would depend on a conducive environment and the availability of both countries’ Prime Ministers. Kobir also highlighted Bangladesh’s concerns over the sentiments generated following the events of August 5 and the importance of maintaining balanced foreign relations.
Kobir expressed hope that India would adopt a positive approach by not allowing any Bangladeshi terrorist or extremist group to use its territory. He stressed the importance of Bangladesh seeking a good balance in its foreign relations and bilateral relationships with various countries.