Underscoring the potential to expand cooperation with the Maldives in tourism and fisheries, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat urged for closer collaboration to promote sustainable fisheries, develop tourism and create new avenues for bilateral engagement.

The minister made the call while speaking at a chief guest at The Great Tuna Gala in Dhaka, organised by the Maldives High Commission to showcase the country’s sustainable tuna fishery, culinary heritage and tourism opportunities while strengthening trade, business and people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and the Maldives.

High Commissioner of Maldives to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed highlighted the close connection between the Maldives and the ocean and the central place fisheries holds in the country’s economy, communities and culture.

She spoke about the Maldives’ pole-and-line tuna fishery and the importance of maintaining sustainable fishing practices, and highlighted the potential to expand Maldivian tuna and other fisheries products in the Bangladesh market.

The High Commissioner also noted the growing connectivity between the two countries and the opportunities this creates for greater tourism, trade and business engagement.

The event highlighted the Maldives’ deep connection with the ocean and the important role fisheries continues to play in the country’s economy, culture and island communities.

Tuna, the mainstay of the Maldivian fisheries sector, featured prominently throughout the event, with guests introduced to a range of Maldivian fisheries products.

A particular focus was placed on the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line fishing method, through which tuna are caught individually.

Practised in the Maldives for generations, pole-and-line fishing reflects the country’s longstanding commitment to responsible and sustainable use of its marine resources.

Renowned Maldivian Chef Maha Naseer, who travelled to Dhaka especially for the occasion, presented a live culinary demonstration featuring Maldivian dishes and showcased the versatility of tuna and other fisheries products in Maldivian cuisine.

Around 250 guests, including senior representatives of the Government of Bangladesh, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, tourism and fisheries industry partners, and representatives of the media, attended the event.

Guests were given an opportunity to experience authentic Maldivian flavours and learn more about the close relationship between the country’s fisheries, culinary traditions, island communities and way of life.

The Gala also showcased the Maldives as a leading global tourism destination, highlighting the country’s distinctive island experiences, natural beauty, hospitality and rich cultural heritage.

Through The Great Tuna Gala, the High Commission sought to create greater awareness of Maldivian fisheries products in Bangladesh, explore opportunities for expanding market access and business-to-business partnerships, and further promote the Maldives as a preferred destination for Bangladeshi travellers.

The event reflected the growing economic and people-to-people ties between the Maldives and Bangladesh 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.