B Mirror Report: Bangladesh and Japan have intensified efforts to break a long-standing deadlock over the operation of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s (HSIA) third terminal, holding a high-level meeting on Friday that could pave the way for an agreement within days.
The second round of senior-level discussions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs focused on financial and operational issues surrounding the largely completed terminal, which remains idle due to management disputes.
Top officials from both sides participated, including Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, and State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat. Senior bureaucrats such as BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun and CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq were also present.
The Japanese delegation was led by Nakayama Rieko, assistant vice minister at Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Discussions reportedly focused on service charges, operational control, and revenue-sharing arrangements key sticking points in earlier negotiations.
Officials noted that the Japanese consortium has revised its financial proposal, addressing concerns raised by Bangladesh. Both sides are now working toward a “win-win” deal that safeguards Bangladesh’s financial and operational interests while ensuring international standards in airport management.
The HSIA third terminal, built with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is expected to increase passenger capacity, enhance service quality, and strengthen Dhaka’s position as a regional aviation hub. However, despite nearing completion, the terminal has remained unused for years due to unresolved operational and financial disputes, while the existing terminals continue to face capacity pressures.
Friday’s talks are seen as a critical step toward finally unlocking the long-delayed facility.
