State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md Mahbub Ali said the Father of the Nation had many dreams about Cox's Bazar. Soon after independence, Bangabandhu thought about how to introduce Cox's Bazar to international affairs. To implement those thoughts of Bangabandhu, Prime Minister has undertaken many projects including making Cox's Bazar Airport an international standard.
A number of projects have already been started to promote the tourism industry as well as the airport to an international standard. The state minister made the remarks while talking to media persons at the airport after arriving in Cox's Bazar on an official visit on Friday afternoon.
The state minister said that on August 29, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the expansion of the 10,800-foot runway through video conferencing. It is the wish of the Prime Minister that large planes from all over the world can land at Cox's Bazar. Cox's Bazar Airport is being upgraded to an international standard as tourists from abroad can come to Cox's Bazar and enjoy the aesthetic and natural beauty of the mountains and sea.
The state minister said the work would be completed within the stipulated time. The plane will be able to take off and land at Cox's Bazar airport by February next year.
MP Ashek Ullah Rafique, female MP Kaniz Fatema Mostaq, executive of Tourism Corporation, senior officials of the corporation and ministry, Deputy Commissioner of Cox's Bazar Md Mamunur Rashid, Central Awami League Organizing Secretary Advocate Sirajul Mostafa.
Cox's Bazar District Awami League Acting President, Cox's Bazar District Awami League General Secretary and Municipal Council Mayor Mojibur Rahman along with senior officials of various government departments were present.
During his two-day official visit to Cox's Bazar, the state minister will visit various tourist spots including Sonadia Island and participate in several important meetings. On August 29, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the 10,800-foot runway expansion work via video conference. The state minister will be present at the end of Cox's Bazar.