Bangladesh, Maldives seek closer cooperation in tourism, fisheries
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat on Wednesday called for closer cooperation between Bangladesh and the Maldives in tourism and fisheries, with a focus on sustainable fishing, tourism development and new avenues for bilateral engagement.
He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at The Great Tuna Gala in Dhaka, organised by the Maldives High Commission to showcase the Maldives’ sustainable tuna fishery, culinary heritage and tourism opportunities and strengthen trade, business and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
High Commissioner of Maldives to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed highlighted the Maldives’ close connection with the ocean and the central role fisheries play in its economy, communities and culture.
She spoke about the country’s traditional pole-and-line tuna fishery and the importance of maintaining sustainable fishing practices. She also highlighted the potential to expand the market for Maldivian tuna and other fisheries products in Bangladesh.
Rasheed noted the growing connectivity between the two countries and the opportunities it creates for increased tourism, trade and business engagement.
Tuna, the mainstay of the Maldivian fisheries sector, featured prominently at the event, where guests were introduced to a range of Maldivian fisheries products.
The gala particularly highlighted the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line fishing method, in which tuna are caught individually. Practised for generations, the method reflects the country’s commitment to the responsible and sustainable use of its marine resources.
Renowned Maldivian chef Maha Naseer, who travelled to Dhaka for the occasion, conducted a live culinary demonstration featuring Maldivian dishes and showcasing the versatility of tuna and other fisheries products in the country’s cuisine.
Around 250 guests, including senior Bangladesh government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, tourism and fisheries industry representatives and media personnel, attended the event.
Guests had the opportunity to experience authentic Maldivian flavours and learn about the relationship between the country’s fisheries, culinary traditions, island communities and way of life.
The gala also promoted the Maldives as a leading global tourism destination, highlighting its distinctive island experiences, natural beauty, hospitality and cultural heritage.
The Maldives High Commission said the event aimed to raise awareness of Maldivian fisheries products in Bangladesh, explore opportunities for greater market access and business-to-business partnerships, and promote the Maldives as a preferred destination for Bangladeshi travellers.
The event underscored the growing economic and people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and the Maldives and the potential for further cooperation in fisheries, trade, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
The event was supported by Epitychia Holdings Pvt Ltd, VARU by Atmosphere, Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited, Maldivian Airlines, Sheraton Dhaka, The Way Dhaka and INZAA Company Pvt Ltd.