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Maldives promotes sustainable fisheries, cuisine and tourism in Dhaka
Daily Sun Report, Dhaka
Published: 07 Oct 2026, 09:05 AM
Photo : Courtesy
The High Commission of the Maldives in Bangladesh hosted a gala in Dhaka to promote Maldivian fisheries products, cuisine and tourism while strengthening trade and business ties between the two countries.
The event, titled “The Great Tuna Gala – Flavours from the Sunny Side”, was held at Sheraton Dhaka, with Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat attending as the chief guest.
Around 250 guests, including senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, tourism and fisheries industry representatives and media professionals, attended the event.
Speaking at the gala, Maldives High Commissioner to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed highlighted the country’s close relationship with the ocean and the central role fisheries play in its economy, communities and culture.
She highlighted the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line tuna fishery and the importance of sustainable fishing practices, while noting the potential to expand Maldivian tuna and other fisheries products in the Bangladesh market.
The high commissioner also pointed to growing connectivity between the two countries and the opportunities it offers for greater tourism, trade and business engagement.
Minister Millat highlighted the scope for deeper cooperation between Bangladesh and the Maldives in fisheries and tourism. He stressed the importance of joint efforts to advance sustainable fisheries and tourism development, promote tourism and create new avenues for collaboration.
Tuna, the mainstay of the Maldivian fisheries sector, featured prominently at the event, with guests introduced to a range of Maldivian fisheries products.
A key focus was the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line fishing method, under which tuna are caught individually. Practised for generations, the method reflects the country’s commitment to the responsible and sustainable use of marine resources.
The event also showcased Maldivian culinary heritage. Renowned Maldivian chef Maha Naseer, who travelled to Dhaka for the occasion, gave a live demonstration featuring traditional dishes and highlighting the versatility of tuna and other fisheries products.
The gala also promoted the Maldives as a leading global tourism destination, showcasing its island experiences, natural beauty, hospitality and cultural heritage.
The high commission said the event aimed to raise awareness of Maldivian fisheries products in Bangladesh, explore opportunities to expand market access and business partnerships, and promote the Maldives as a preferred destination for Bangladeshi travellers.
The event reflected growing economic and people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and the Maldives and the potential for further cooperation in fisheries, trade, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
The event was supported by Epitychia Holdings Pvt Ltd, VARU by Atmosphere, Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited, Maldivian Airlines, Sheraton Dhaka, THE WAY DHAKA and INZAA Company Pvt Ltd.