Bangladesh, Uzbekistan discuss expanding air connectivity, tourism

Dhaka: Bangladesh and Uzbekistan have discussed expanding air connectivity and tourism cooperation as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote trade and investment between the two countries.

The issues were discussed when Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir met Uzbekistan's Deputy Foreign Minister Aloyev Bakhromjon Juraboyevich in Baghdad on October 18 on the sidelines of the 52nd Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers.

The two sides discussed cooperation in several areas, including air connectivity, tourism, trade, and investment, as well as ways to strengthen business-to-business contacts, according to a ministry release.

The discussions also covered the possibility of a free trade agreement to boost bilateral trade and investment.

Enhanced air connectivity could help facilitate travel between the two countries, support tourism development, and create opportunities for stronger business and people-to-people exchanges.

Humaiun Kobir is leading the Bangladesh delegation to the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers meeting, held in Baghdad on 17–18 October. He delivered Bangladesh's statement at the council's plenary session on 17 October.