BD, KSA sign MoU to expand cooperation in aviation sector
Thursday, 24 August 2023
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Bangladesh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for expanding bilateral cooperation in the aviation sector, reports UNB.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md. Mahbub Ali and President of Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation Abdul Aziz Al Duailez signed the MoU on behalf of their respective countries at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in the Secretariat on Wednesday.
The signing of the MoU paves the way for enhanced collaboration in the field of air travel, allowing designated Bangladeshi airlines to initiate flights from any location in Bangladesh to various international destinations in Saudi Arabia, following discussions with Saudi Arabian authorities.
Under the previous MoU from 2012, Bangladeshi airlines were only granted access to operate flights at four specific airports in Saudi Arabia -- Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, and Madina.
However, the newly signed MoU promises a broader scope, intending to increase the frequency of flights.
Md. Mahbub Ali said, "Under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the country's aviation sector has made remarkable progress, aligning with international standards."
He stressed the government's commitment to transforming Bangladesh into a thriving aviation hub.
"The MoU's impact extends beyond aviation, fostering closer cooperation between the two nations in multiple spheres, including trade. The completion of the Tourism Master Plan under the Prime Minister's direction opens new doors for tourism development in Bangladesh, offering potential areas of collaboration with Saudi Arabia," he said.
Saudi's Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Bin Fazwan Al Rabiah said he believes the expanded air traffic as a result of the new MoU would prove beneficial to both sides.
Acknowledging Bangladesh's exceptional hospitality and natural beauty, he saw immense potential for tourism development, and vowed for Saudi Arabia's support in the sector's advancement.