Bangladesh, Sri Lanka stress tourism, connectivity ties

Dhaka: Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have underscored the importance of strengthening tourism and connectivity to unlock the untapped potential of bilateral relations during a high-level meeting in Dhaka.

Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 28.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed ongoing cooperation and discussed ways to deepen engagement across a wide range of sectors. Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing tourism exchanges and improving connectivity, seen as key drivers for increasing people-to-people contact and boosting trade and investment flows between the two countries, read a press release.

They agreed that better air and maritime links, along with coordinated tourism initiatives, could significantly increase visitor numbers and promote cultural exchange between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The State Minister highlighted Bangladesh’s growing export strengths in jute, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, and information technology, noting that improved connectivity would facilitate smoother trade and logistics between the two markets.

Both sides also stressed expanding cooperation in health, education, culture, and sports, while reaffirming their commitment to regional collaboration. The State Minister reiterated Bangladesh’s strong support for revitalizing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation to promote shared prosperity in South Asia.

The meeting concluded with a shared optimism that enhanced connectivity and tourism cooperation would serve as catalysts for a more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.

K