Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat today expressed hope that Nepal's Himalaya Airlines would operate direct flights to Cox's Bazar following the opening of the 

international airport there next month.

He made the remarks when Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari paid a courtesy call on him at his office at the Bangladesh Secretariat here this afternoon, said a ministry's press release here.

Millat said the opening of Cox's Bazar International Airport would create new opportunities for Nepalese tourists to travel directly to the beach city and could open up fresh prospects for tourism cooperation between the two countries.

In that context, he said Himalaya Airlines could consider launching direct services to Cox's Bazar.

The Nepalese side, meanwhile, expressed interest in the introduction of Biman Bangladesh Airlines flights on the Dhaka-Pokhara route.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in tourism and air connectivity.

They also discussed increasing tourist exchanges, improving connectivity and exploring joint initiatives to promote tourism.

Both sides expressed optimism that stronger air links and tourism cooperation would further deepen the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Nepal.

Cox’s Bazar lies on the Bay of Bengal coast in southeastern Bangladesh. It is home to one of the world’s longest natural sea beaches, stretching about 120 kilometres. It is the country’s most popular tourist destination, with attractions nearby including Inani, Himchhari, and St. Martin’s Island.

Pokhara is the capital of Gandaki Province in Nepal. Located about 200 kilometres west of the capital, Kathmandu, it is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Set beside Phewa Lake and at the foot of the Annapurna range, it is known as a gateway for trekking and adventure tourism. Pokhara International Airport was inaugurated in January 2023.