The tourism sector will contribute to the economy as a driving force in attaining the Smart Bangladesh vision, said State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Mahbub Ali.
“The government is working to explore the untapped potentials of the tourism sector on a priority basis. A tourism master plan is being prepared to ensure sustainable development in the country’s tourism industry,” he said.
The state minister was inaugurating a tourism expo in Dhaka on Thursday.
Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) organised the three-day exposition of Travel and Tourism Expo at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC).
Addressing the function as chief guest, the state minister hoped that the tourism master plan will ensure a “planned and coordinated development” of the sector.
Mahbub Ali appreciated the role of tour operators as an “essential and important part” of the tourism industry.
“Through them, tourists from home and abroad turn their travel dreams into reality. The fair will play an important role in positively portraying the wonderful tourist attractions of our country among local and foreign travelers,” he said.
Tourism secretary Mokammel Hossain, Spanish ambassador Francisco de Asis Benitez Salas, Parjatan Corporation chairperson Ali Kadar and Bangladesh Tourism Board chief executive officer Abu Taher Md Jaber, among others, were also present on the occasion.
The fair will remain open for visitors from 10 am to 8 pm every day till March 4.