Dhaka:Bangladesh and Italy have initiated discussions on a potential memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing tourism cooperation. The talks focused on improving tourist attractions, transport links, and visitor facilities between the two countries.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the discussions took place during a courtesy call by Italian Ambassador to Bangladesh Antonio Alessandro with Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat at the Secretariat. A ministry press release highlighted the prospects of the proposed MoU, which aims to expand tourism exchanges and strengthen cooperation in developing attractions, connectivity, and facilities for visitors.
The conversation prominently featured the increasing number of Italian tourists visiting Bangladesh, with both parties expressing interest in boosting tourism exchanges further. The development and opening of Cox's Bazar Airport were also discussed as a means to make Bangladesh's tourist destinations more accessible to international visitors.
A proposal to establish a special 'red zone' for foreign tourists was considered to enhance safety, comfort, and the overall tourism experience. Besides tourism, the meeting also covered expanding air connectivity, attracting Italian investment in Bangladesh's aviation sector, and developing facilities for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
Responding to Italy's interest in increasing flights on the Dhaka-Rome route, the minister noted that plans to raise flight frequencies would be considered following the addition of new aircraft to Biman Bangladesh Airlines' fleet. The needs of the large expatriate community in Europe would also be taken into account.
Currently, Biman operates six flights a week between Bangladesh and Italy. The discussions also identified investment opportunities in establishing an MRO hub in Bangladesh, leveraging the expertise of Italian companies such as Edge Company, Atitech S.p.A., and Gilardoni.
Both nations expressed optimism about fortifying their existing friendly relations and expanding cooperation in aviation and tourism, with the implementation of these initiatives expected to improve connectivity, create investment opportunities, and accelerate tourism development.