Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita on Saturday underscored the need to strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal through enhanced air connectivity and expanded cooperation in tourism and cultural exchanges.

She made the remarks while addressing a “Nepal Cultural Evening” as the chief guest at the District Shilpakala Academy in Manikganj.

Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, also attended the event, which was jointly organised by the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka and the Bangladesh-Nepal Friendship Society with support from the district administration.

Speaking on the occasion, Afroza said Bangladesh and Nepal enjoy longstanding friendly relations rooted in mutual respect and cooperation, expressing optimism that ties between the two countries would deepen further in the coming years.

She stressed the importance of boosting air connectivity and expanding cooperation in tourism and cultural sectors to unlock greater opportunities for bilateral engagement.

Ambassador Bhandari said Nepal is keen to further strengthen relations with Bangladesh through enhanced cultural and diplomatic exchanges, adding that such initiatives help reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

Among others, Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Sarwar Alam, Bangladesh-Nepal Friendship Society President Moshiur Rahman and General Secretary Salahuddin Kutu spoke at the programme.

The event concluded with a two-hour cultural performance by artists from Bangladesh and Nepal, captivating the audience with vibrant displays of music and dance.