The civil aviation and tourism minister, Afroza Khanam, said that the government is emphasizing specific action plans for the tourism sector, which has not developed as desired for the last 17 years.   

She said this today as chief guest at a view exchanges meeting with the officers and staff of Bangladesh Tourism Board, held at Bangladesh Tourism Corporation.

The minister urged the concerned officials to take new and innovative initiatives to make the country's tourism sector dynamic and profitable.

She also opined that extensive campaigns and strategic branding of tourist spots are necessary to make the activities of the tourism sector more visible.

She said, ‘Since the expected progress has not been made for a long time, now is the time to take this sector to new heights through planned steps and effective implementation.’

Afroza mentioned that the government is working towards transforming Bangladesh Tourism Corporation into a profitable organization.

Speaking as a special guest at the meeting, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said that effective measures will be taken to identify hotels and restaurants that have been in loss for a long time and turn them into profitable establishments.

He further added, on-site inspections will be conducted at district level and proper actions will be taken for this purpose.

Millat also directed to gradually replace the corporation's existing vehicles with environmentally friendly electric vehicles.

A power point presentation on the history, vision, goals and ongoing activities of Bangladesh Tourism Corporation and Bangladesh Tourism Board was presented at the meeting.

Presence at the meeting include Civil aviation and tourism ministry’s secretary Fahmida Akhter, Bangladesh tourism corporation’s chairman Sayema Shahin Sultan, along with officers of corporation and tourism board.