Govt to promote ethnic tourism: Minister

 
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam on Friday said the government is working to promote ethnic tourism and create employment opportunities through the tourism sector.

She made the remarks at the inauguration of a three-day Harmony Festival showcasing the culture and traditions of 27 ethnic communities in Srimangal.

The festival, held at the Fulchhara Tea Garden Ground, features traditional food, products and diverse cultural practices of ethnic communities from Srimangal and surrounding areas. Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam MP attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest, while State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat MP was present as the special guest.

Speaking at the event, the minister said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is working to develop the country’s tourism sector. She said plans are being prepared to create employment opportunities through tourism and expand ethnic tourism initiatives.

She also said the government would work to establish an ethnic cultural academy in response to local demands. In addition, plans have been taken to expand Sylhet Airport to attract more foreign tourists and promote Sylhet as a global tourism destination.