DHAKA, 30 August 2021, (TON): Highlighting the potentials of Cox's Bazar, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said “the government wants to turn Bangladesh into a global aviation hub that will help accelerate the country's current economic march forward.”

She said while inaugurating the breaking ground of the extension of Cox's Bazar Airport runway "considering Bangladesh's geographical position, we want to make the country the centre of global aviation so that our country is greatly benefited economically."

She joined the programme from the Gono Bhaban.

Hasina said “the position of Cox's Bazar is very significant.”

In recent times, she said Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok gained importance while Dubai is currently getting the greater attention.

She said "I can say Cox's Bazar will be the most important one in the future."

She said after the expansion of Cox's Bazar Airport, it will emerge as a suitable place of refuelling aircraft from the east and west, and enhance communication with South East Asian countries. "If we can enhance our communications with South Eastern Asian countries, it will help expand our trade and commerce."

After coming to power, Hasina said her government bought 16 new aircraft, including four Boeing 777s, two 737s, four 787-8s, two 787-9s and four Dash-8s.

With these aircraft, she said the government wants to expand Biman's routes, including New York, Toronto and Sydney.