Necmeddin Bilal Erdogan, president of the World Ethnosport Union, met with State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Hoque. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 14, 2026 (BSS)- State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Hoque has met Necmeddin Bilal Erdogan, president of the World Ethnosport Union, in Istanbul, Turkiye. 

During the meeting held on May 12, fruitful discussions took place regarding the development and promotion of traditional and indigenous sports between the two nations, said a press release today. 

In the meeting, State Minister Aminul Hoque highlighted the rich history of Bangladesh's rural and traditional games. He emphasized that while competing in the modern sporting world is essential, it is equally vital to preserve each country's unique cultural heritage through its "Country Games." The two leaders discussed in detail how these indigenous sports could be modernized and elevated to international standards.

President of the World Ethnosport Union Necmeddin Bilal Erdogan praised the progress of Bangladesh's sports sector and stressed the importance of increasing cultural exchange through Ethnosports. He assured that his organization would always stand by Bangladesh to share expertise in promoting traditional sports.

During the visit, the State Minister extended a formal invitation to Bilal Erdogan to visit Bangladesh. Necmeddin Bilal Erdogan cordially accepted the invitation and expressed his hope to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time.

Aminul Hoque expressed his optimism that this meeting would add a new dimension to the sporting relations between Bangladesh and Turkey, providing opportunities for grassroots athletes from both countries to benefit from shared experience in the future.