Dhaka:Pakistan has expressed interest in enhancing cooperation with Bangladesh in the field of medical tourism. This initiative is seen as a promising opportunity to strengthen bilateral tourism partnerships and foster people-to-people connections between the two South Asian nations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Pakistan's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, highlighted the potential of healthcare-related travel during the inaugural ceremony of the Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair (BTTF) 2026. He noted the presence of two Pakistani medical sector companies at the exhibition as a sign of growing interest in this specialized tourism segment.
The three-day international tourism exhibition, now in its 14th edition, is being held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. The high commissioner expressed hope that the participation of Pakistani companies would establish business connections, facilitate exchanges, and create future cooperation opportunities in medical tourism.
Haider emphasized that both Bangladesh and Pakistan have significant potential to expand tourism exchanges beyond traditional leisure travel. He noted that tourism could play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations by promoting greater mutual understanding and connectivity between the people of both countries.
He further pointed out that tourism could serve as an effective platform for closer cultural exchanges, allowing people to explore each other's historical heritage, traditions, and natural attractions. Haider highlighted the rich tourism resources available in both countries, including historical landmarks, cultural diversity, traditional cuisine, and scenic landscapes.
The high commissioner also underscored the importance of tourism as a tool for people-to-people diplomacy, advocating for increased cooperation in the sector. He thanked the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) for inviting the Pakistani delegation and appreciated the efforts of Pakistani participants in strengthening diplomatic ties through tourism.
The fair, inaugurated by Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry Secretary Dr. Nurun Nahar Chowdhury, is organized by TOAB under the theme "AI Powered Tourism, Sustainable Destination" and runs until October 31. It features participation from 16 countries, with over 200 booths and stalls, more than 220 exhibitors, and approximately 2,500 trade visitors. The event aims to promote international tourism cooperation, facilitate business partnerships, and encourage technological innovation and sustainable tourism development.