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Maldives and Bangladesh Seek to Establish Deeper Ties at ‘Tuna Gala’ in Dhaka

Key points
  • The Maldives High Commission in Bangladesh hosted 'The Great Tuna Gala' in Dhaka to promote sustainable fisheries, Maldivian cuisine, and bilateral trade.
  • The Maldivian High Commissioner highlighted pole-and-line tuna fishing and opportunities for expanding fisheries exports, trade, investment, and tourism with Bangladesh.
  • Bangladesh's Tourism Minister Rashiduzzaman Millat attended as Chief Guest, calling for deeper cooperation in fisheries and sustainable tourism between the nations.

The High Commission of the Maldives in Bangladesh has hosted a diplomatic event titled “The Great Tuna Gala – Flavours from the Sunny Side” in Dhaka, aimed at promoting sustainable fisheries, Maldivian culinary traditions, and bilateral trade opportunities.

As per the official social media post by the High Commission of Maldives in Bangladesh, the event brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, and representatives from the tourism and fisheries sectors. H.E. M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism of Bangladesh, attended the event as Chief Guest.

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To present traditional Maldivian cuisine, the High Commission partnered with renowned Maldivian Chef Maha Naseer. Live culinary stations showcased the central role of tuna in Maldivian gastronomy. Guests sampled traditional dishes, including Riha Folhi with curry mayonnaise, Mas’huni and Roshi, Masburi Riha, and tuna steak with Lonumirus.

Addressing the gathering, the Maldivian High Commissioner emphasized the archipelago’s deep reliance on the ocean and the crucial role fisheries play in supporting local communities and the national economy. She highlighted the country’s traditional pole-and-line tuna fishing techniques as an example of sustainable practice and outlined prospects for expanding Maldivian fisheries exports to Bangladesh. Additionally, she pointed to new opportunities for trade, investment, and bilateral tourism.

In response, Minister Millat highlighted the potential for Bangladesh and the Maldives to deepen cooperation across both the fisheries and tourism sectors. He called for joint efforts to promote sustainable tourism and enhance commercial collaboration between the two South Asian nations.

The diplomatic showcase received support from commercial and industry partners, including Epitychia Holdings, VARU by Atmosphere, the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO), Maldivian Aero, Sheraton Dhaka, THE WAY DHAKA, and INZAA Company.