New York:Biman Bangladesh Airlines has signed an agreement with Boeing to acquire 11 additional aircraft, aligning with Bangladesh's ambition to become an aviation hub.
According to United News of Bangladesh, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir emphasized that there is no hidden agenda behind this new deal. He stated that the expansion of Biman's fleet comes as part of Bangladesh's plans to grow its aviation sector based on needs, and the agreement was conducted in an open environment.
Kobir highlighted the necessity to broaden the fleet to support the country's goal of becoming an aviation hub. He also mentioned the importance of maintaining a mixed aircraft fleet to benefit the aviation sector. The signing ceremony took place during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The State Minister described the Prime Minister's visit to the UNGA as "successful and meaningful," noting extensive engagements with the international community. He added that the Prime Minister's speech was well-received, addressing significant issues such as climate change, domestic policies, and international peace.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines' latest agreement with Boeing follows a previous deal in April to purchase 14 planes, marking the airline's biggest-ever order valued at $3.7 billion. The US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T Christensen, congratulated both Boeing and Biman on this deal, citing it as a positive development for US-Bangladesh relations.
Kobir responded to criticisms regarding the Prime Minister's UNGA speech, dismissing claims that it was partisan. He clarified that the speech covered national and international issues, including climate change, which are of global concern.
Regarding the suspended Dhaka-New York flight, the State Minister mentioned that it was halted due to technical and safety assessments. He assured that efforts are underway for reassessment to potentially resume the flights.