Outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das today proposed restoration of air connectivity with Bangladesh, following the months-long cancellation of air services with the neighboring country due to the Covid-19 outbreak since April.

The Indian envoy came up with the proposal while meeting with the State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md. Mahbub Ali at his office in the Secretariat.

She also informed Mahbub Ali about India's interest in working for the development of the aviation sector in Bangladesh, the Civil Aviation Ministry said in a release.

In reply, the state minister agreed on the need to resume air travel with India, and said that steps would be taken soon through mutual communication.

During the meeting, the junior minister said direct flights from Sylhet MAG Osmani International Airport to London will start soon as well.

He also told the Indian envoy that the use of Osmani International Airport as a transit route will be much more convenient for the residents of the northeastern states of India to travel to different countries of the world, especially the United Kingdom.

In response, the Indian High Commissioner agreed.

During the meeting, the Indian High Commissioner and Mahbub Ali discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the development of tourism and aviation sectors between the two friendly neighbors.

Describing her excellent experience of traveling to the Sundarbans during her stay in Bangladesh, Riva Ganguly said Bangladesh is a country of immense potential for tourism. There is also a lot of potential for developing tourism relations between Bangladesh and India, she said.

Mahbub Ali also congratulated Riva Das Ganguly on her appointment as Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India.