Full Breakdown
Bangladesh and Japan Advance Negotiations on HSIA Third Terminal
4/6/2026, 12:43:28 PM
Ongoing Negotiations for Operational Control
Bangladesh and Japan are engaged in high-level discussions to finalize the operation and maintenance of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA). The latest round of talks, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, involved key figures including Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita. The focus of the negotiations is on revenue-related aspects, including embarkation fees, upfront payments, and revenue-sharing arrangements. Minister Rita emphasized the government's commitment to safeguarding national interests while expediting the terminal's operationalization.
Key Players in the Negotiations
The Japanese delegation was led by Nakayama Rieko, Assistant Vice Minister of Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The consortium involved in the project includes Japan Airport Terminal Company, Sumitomo Corporation, Sojitz Corporation, and Narita International Airport Corporation. The discussions have been characterized by a need for deeper revisions to the Japanese proposal to address specific concerns raised by the Bangladeshi side.
Timeline and Project Background
The current negotiations follow a previous meeting on March 13, which also aimed to resolve outstanding issues related to the terminal's operation. The terminal, financed primarily by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, has been constructed at a cost of approximately Taka 21,398 crore and is designed to accommodate an additional 12-16 million passengers annually, along with nearly 900,000 tonnes of cargo. Despite the terminal nearing completion, it has remained closed for about one and a half years due to political transitions, hindering foreign airlines from commencing operations in Bangladesh.
Implications and Future Prospects
State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat indicated that if a consensus is reached, the agreement could be signed within three months. The government aims to inaugurate the terminal by the end of this year or early 2027. The Prime Minister has prioritized the terminal's opening, reflecting its significance for enhancing Bangladesh's aviation infrastructure and international connectivity.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the optimism expressed by Bangladeshi officials, there are concerns regarding the ongoing delays and the need for a mutually beneficial agreement. Critics have pointed out that the negotiations have spanned multiple governments without resolution, raising questions about the effectiveness of the current approach. The government has reiterated its commitment to prioritizing national interests throughout the negotiation process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are seeking the best deal for our country. Our national interest comes first,” — Humaiun Kabir, Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Advisor
- “We are repeatedly sitting at the table to safeguard national interests. We want to make the terminal operational as soon as possible.” — Afroza Khanam Rita, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister
- “Our national interest comes first," said Humaiun, noting that while there are still “gaps” between the two proposals, negotiations are moving in the right direction.” — M Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism
The ongoing discussions between Bangladesh and Japan represent a critical step toward operationalizing the HSIA third terminal, with both sides expressing a commitment to resolving outstanding issues and reaching a final agreement.
