The United Kingdom has expressed a keen interest in collaborating with Bangladesh to develop its aviation industry. This offer of partnership comes as Bangladesh strives to transform itself into a major aviation hub.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, conveyed the UK’s commitment during a meeting with Muhammad Farooq Khan, MP, Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, at his residence on Wednesday. High Commissioner Cooke highlighted the UK’s long standing partnership with Bangladesh’s aviation sector, particularly in the development of airport security systems.
The United Kingdom is looking to broaden their existing partnership with Bangladesh’s aviation industry. Their focus has previously been on airport security systems, but they’re eager to expand their collaboration. This expanded partnership would encompass several key areas.
Firstly, the UK aims to assist Bangladesh in developing the technical skills of its aviation workforce. This could involve knowledge sharing programs, joint training initiatives, or even the development of specialized educational programs focused on aviation technology and maintenance.
Secondly, the UK is keen to collaborate on initiatives that create a highly skilled workforce for the aviation industry. This might involve joint certification programs, exchange programs for aspiring aviation professionals, or even the development of specialized vocational training centers.
High Commissioner Cooke emphasized the UK’s desire to be a partner in Bangladesh’s journey to becoming a leading aviation hub. Minister Farooq Khan warmly welcomed the UK’s offer of cooperation. He expressed his delight at the prospect of the two nations working together to develop Bangladesh’s aviation industry. Both parties agreed to explore potential areas for collaboration.
Minister Khan highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, to transform Bangladesh into a major aviation hub. Significant advancements have been made across the country’s airports, including the construction of a third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Development projects are also underway at other airports, with a particular focus on transforming Syedpur Airport into a regional hub. Minister Khan believes a fully developed Syedpur Airport will act as a “game changer” for regional connectivity, boosting trade and economic ties between Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and Bhutan.
This collaborative effort between the UK and Bangladesh signifies a promising step towards bolstering Bangladesh’s aviation industry and achieving its goal of becoming a prominent aviation hub in the region.
