DHAKA, June 28, 2022 (BSS) - State minister for civil aviation and tourism Md Mahbub Ali today said partnerships between Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) nations would help further flourishing tourism among the member states.

"OIC nations have to work together to develop the tourism industry along with preserving their traditional culture and heritage," he said.

He made the call while addressing, as the chair, the opening session of the 11th session of the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers of the OIC in Azerbaijani capital Baku, a press release said here.

Emphasising on more cooperation and partnership among the public and private sectors of OIC states, Ali said that it would expand business as well as strengthen bilateral ties.

Terming Bangladesh as a tourist friendly nation, he said, the country with welcoming people, warm hospitality, amazing natural beauty, rich culture and heritage can be a popular tourist destination for the travelers of OIC nations.

The 11th session of the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers kicked off on June 27 and will continue to June 29, under the theme "Role of Local Communities in Tourism Development."

During this session, Bangladesh will hand over the presidency to Azerbaijan for the next two years.

The previous gathering of the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers was held in Dhaka.