Bangladesh, Japan eying on Dhaka airport 3rd terminal deal

The meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs brought together key officials from both nations, including Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed. Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir and Civil Aviation State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat also participated in the crucial talks.

The Japanese delegation was led by Assistant Vice Minister Nakayama Rieko from Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Bangladesh was further represented by senior officials including Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun and Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq.

Officials reported that the discussions focused on resolving outstanding operational and financial issues that have previously stalled the agreement. Both sides are working toward a mutually beneficial arrangement that addresses Bangladesh's concerns while ensuring the terminal's efficient operation.

This meeting follows an earlier round of negotiations held on March 13, where Bangladesh urged Japan to submit a revised proposal for terminal management. That session marked the first formal talks under the current BNP-led government, with both parties expressing commitment to making the terminal operational on favorable terms.

State Minister Millat previously indicated that negotiations were centered on creating a solution advantageous to Bangladesh while addressing shortcomings in earlier proposals. Recent developments suggest significant progress, with the Japanese consortium reportedly adjusting its financial offer to address Dhaka's concerns regarding service charges, operational control, and revenue-sharing arrangements.

A senior Civil Aviation Authority official told BSS on Wednesday that Friday's meeting could prove decisive, with expectations that a final agreement might be reached as early as next week. "A final agreement is expected to be reached next week following the April 3rd meeting," the official stated.

The third terminal has remained non-operational for years due to unresolved management issues, despite its physical completion. The terminal's activation is expected to significantly enhance Dhaka's air transport capacity and support Bangladesh's growing aviation sector.