The government has planned a series of programmes to mark World Tourism Day, which falls on Friday.
Nasreen Jahan, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, shared the details at a press conference held on Thursday.
"Bangladesh, like other countries, will celebrate World Tourism Day 2024 under the theme set by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Tourism and Peace," said Nasreen Jahan.
The Bengali theme for the event will be "Tourism: The Path to Peace," she added.
The secretary mentioned that messages from the president and the adviser in charge of the ministry have already been released. Special supplements will be published in newspapers, and various articles related to the day have already been featured in the media.
Special programmes highlighting the significance of the day are being aired on electronic media, and text messages related to the event will be sent out via mobile phones.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, along with its affiliated departments, the Tourist Police, and other public and private organisations, has outlined a detailed plan for the event. The celebration will start with a colorful rally at 8am on Friday from the Tourism Building in Agargaon, Dhaka. At 9am, a seminar on the day's theme will be held at the "Shailaprapat Hall" of the Tourism Building.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has announced special discounts on tickets to commemorate the occasion. Additionally, tourism-themed drawing and essay competitions for children will be organised in every district to spread awareness about tourism. District-level celebrations will also take place in a festive atmosphere.
Nasreen Jahan also highlighted the significance of the tourism industry globally, stating that it is one of the largest industries in the world.
"Tourism contributes approximately 3.02 per cent to Bangladesh's GDP," the secretary said, noting that the National Industrial Policy 2022 recognises 12 sub-sectors of tourism, which provide employment opportunities for numerous people.
"Despite various challenges, the government is working to introduce new initiatives and ideas to boost the tourism sector. Efforts are underway to update tourism policies and finalise the Tourism Master Plan, which is expected to attract investments and drive visible improvements in the sector. "
She emphasised that Bangladesh is a country full of tourism potential, with breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. Attractions such as the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest; Cox's Bazar, the longest uninterrupted beach; the unspoiled beauty of the Chittagong Hill Tracts; and the tea gardens of Sylhet make Bangladesh a unique destination.
The country's cultural heritage, archaeological sites, and the hospitality of its people are key assets that can drive the tourism industry forward.
To foster sustainable development in the tourism sector, the government plans to celebrate "Tourism Week" and "Tourism Month" in phases, with a focus on engaging the younger generation and the wider population. Initiatives will be taken to provide training to young people, thereby helping to reduce unemployment while enabling them to contribute to the nation's progress.
The secretary also mentioned plans to involve families of martyrs in the tourism sector, turning their sacrifices into a symbol of national pride.
"We want to learn, share, listen, and be heard. Our goal is to create a tourism-friendly Bangladesh that involves all its people. World Tourism Day offers us that opportunity," she said.
