–Md. Kamal Uddin
Bangladesh’s tourism sector has long been bright with potential, but to transform that potential into a structured force, a strong, central and top-level leadership was needed. The formation of the “National Tourism Council” through the notification issued on April 30, 2026—and the appointment of the Honorable Prime Minister as its president—is a clear and groundbreaking reflection of this reality. The direct involvement of the Prime Minister, who is at the highest level of state governance, has elevated this council from just an administrative structure to a strategic state platform. It is not just a committee; it is a policy-making powerhouse, where the future outline of the country’s tourism sector will be determined in the light of the highest political commitment and responsibility. The significance of the Prime Minister’s leadership here is multifaceted. First, it sends a clear message—tourism is no longer a marginal sector; it is an important pillar of the national economy, employment, international relations and cultural diplomacy. Second, the presence of the Prime Minister makes the decision-making process faster and more effective. Any major project, infrastructure development or policy reform—everything gets the opportunity to be presented and approved directly at the highest level, thus reducing protracted processes. Analyzing the structure of this council, it can be understood that it is a reflection of a complete state coordination system. Ministers from a wide range of ministries—local government, finance, planning, home, foreign affairs, environment, culture, land, civil aviation and tourism, commerce, water resources, Chittagong Hill Tracts affairs and shipping—have been included as members. As a result, tourism development is no longer the limited responsibility of a single department; it has taken the form of a comprehensive state program, with the Prime Minister himself at the center. The biggest advantage that will be created by the activities of this council being conducted under the leadership of the Prime Minister is—political unity and continuity in implementation. It has been seen in the past that many projects have stalled or failed to achieve the desired results due to lack of coordination between different ministries. But now, when top-level representatives of all ministries sit at the same table and work under the direction of the Prime Minister, the decisions will be well-coordinated, realistic and timely. A closer look at the scope of the Council shows that it is not limited to planning alone; rather, it will play an active role in every step of implementation. Adopting long-term action plans for sustainable tourism development, monitoring, evaluating and making necessary amendments are all the responsibilities of this Council. Especially, there is an opportunity to ensure development by giving importance to environmental conservation, participation of local communities and protection of cultural heritage. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, this Council can also play an important role in international tourism diplomacy. Global tourism is now not just about travel; it is an effective means of economic cooperation, cultural exchange and strengthening international relations. Through this Council, Bangladesh will be able to develop its tourism sector as a brand where it will be possible to raise the standards of safety, infrastructure, service and experience to international standards. The leadership of the Prime Minister is also a major force in attracting foreign investment. Investors always look for a stable, transparent and politically supported structure. When they see that the country’s top leadership is directly involved in the development of a sector, their confidence will increase manifold. As a result, there is a possibility of massive investment in tourism infrastructure, hotels-resorts, transportation systems and other service sectors. In addition, this council will also serve as an effective tool in implementing election promises. The decisions taken under the leadership of the Prime Minister will move towards direct implementation and their progress will be monitored regularly. In this way, the government’s promises will take concrete form and the trust of the people will be further strengthened. The notification has said that the council meetings will be organized as needed, which will make this structure flexible and effective. It will be possible to ensure the inclusion of experts as there is an opportunity to co-opt new members if necessary. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism will provide secretarial support, which will keep the administrative activities dynamic. Finally, it can be said that the “National Tourism Council” formed under the leadership of the Prime Minister is not just an administrative initiative; It is a political commitment, a development philosophy and a reflection of a future plan. If this council can effectively discharge its responsibilities, Bangladesh’s tourism sector will be established not only as a driving force for economic growth, but also as a powerful means of enhancing the country’s international image. This is the beginning of a new journey—where the Prime Minister is at the center of leadership, and the goal is one—to establish Bangladesh as a bright, respectable and attractive destination on the world tourism map.