Maldives promotes sustainable fisheries, tourism at ‘Great Tuna Gala’ in Dhaka
Maldives Promotes Sustainable Fisheries Tourism at Dhaka Tuna Gala
Thebangladaily.com – Maldives promotes sustainable fisheries tourism through cultural and business outreach in Bangladesh, using “The Great Tuna Gala – Flavours from the Sunny Side” in Dhaka to showcase its seafood heritage, tourism appeal and potential for stronger commercial ties. The event was held at Sheraton Dhaka on Tuesday, October 6.
Hosted by the High Commission of the Maldives in Bangladesh, the gathering drew about 250 guests from government, diplomatic missions, business, tourism, fisheries and media. Bangladesh Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat attended as the chief guest.
Tuna heritage and responsible fishing
Tuna was the central feature of the evening, reflecting its importance to the Maldivian economy, cuisine and island communities. Guests learned about Maldivian fisheries products and the country’s efforts to build awareness of them in the Bangladesh market.
Maldives High Commissioner to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed spoke about the enduring connection between the Maldivian people and the sea. She said fisheries are closely tied to the country’s culture, livelihoods and everyday life.
She highlighted the Maldives’ traditional pole-and-line tuna fishing method, under which fish are caught individually rather than through large-scale bulk capture. The practice remains an important part of the country’s approach to responsible use of marine resources.
The Great Tuna Gala – Flavours from the Sunny Side
The event also created an opportunity to discuss wider trade possibilities. With buyers paying greater attention to seafood sourcing, Maldivian representatives used the gala to introduce tuna and other fisheries products to potential Bangladeshi importers, businesses and hospitality professionals.
Tourism and bilateral cooperation
Tourism was another major focus. The Maldives was presented to Bangladeshi travellers as a destination known for island experiences, natural beauty, hospitality and cultural traditions. Organisers linked tourism promotion with broader efforts to strengthen travel, trade and business connections between the two countries.
Minister Millat discussed the scope for Bangladesh and the Maldives to cooperate more closely in fisheries and tourism. He emphasised sustainable development, tourism promotion and expanded bilateral engagement in the two sectors.
The gala illustrated how tourism and fisheries are connected in the Maldives. A healthy marine environment supports both coastal livelihoods and the visitor experience, while tuna remains a defining part of Maldivian food culture. By combining seafood, cooking and destination promotion, the programme presented these areas as parts of one national identity.
The High Commission said the initiative aimed to encourage business-to-business engagement, introduce more Bangladeshi consumers to Maldivian seafood and strengthen the Maldives’ position as a travel destination for visitors from Bangladesh.
Maldivian cuisine on display
Chef Maha Naseer, a Maldivian chef who travelled to Dhaka for the event, led a live cooking demonstration featuring traditional dishes. Her presentation showed how tuna and other seafood ingredients are used in Maldivian cooking.
The culinary programme offered guests a practical introduction to the flavours and food traditions of the island nation. It also demonstrated how tuna serves both as an export product and as a cultural symbol shaped by the Maldives’ long relationship with the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Great Tuna Gala in Dhaka?
It was an event organised by the High Commission of the Maldives in Bangladesh to showcase Maldivian tuna, fisheries products, cuisine, tourism and business opportunities.
Why is pole-and-line fishing important to the Maldives?
It is a traditional tuna fishing method in which fish are caught individually. The Maldives highlighted the practice as part of its approach to responsible marine resource use.
How could Bangladesh benefit from closer fisheries cooperation?
Greater engagement could support product exchange, business discussions, market access and cooperation between fisheries-related companies in Bangladesh and the Maldives.
What did the event offer Bangladeshi travellers?
The gala promoted the Maldives as a destination for island travel, natural attractions, hospitality and Maldivian cultural experiences.