A high-level delegation from the High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh visited Himchari Bazar today to engage with local stakeholders and explore the potential of tourism in the region.
The delegation included Ajit Singh, the High Commissioner of Canada to Bangladesh; Marcus Davies, the Political Counsellor; Stephen Weaver, the Head of Cooperation; and Joseph McIntosh, the First Secretary of Development.
They were joined by Naveed Akbar, National Programme Manager, ILO; Abu Daud Khan, MD & CEO of Enroute International Ltd; and the ILO-ISEC Tourism Implementation Support Partnership Project team from Enroute.
The visit brought together representatives from various groups, including the Tourism Owners Association Cox’s Bazar (TOAC), the Himchari Bazar Committee, the Industry Skills Council (ISC), the Restaurant Owners Association, the Rakhine Sustainable Development Community, and women entrepreneurs and persons with disabilities (PWD) from the local community.
During their visit, the delegation explored local businesses, including shops run by entrepreneurs who had previously participated in entrepreneurship training organized by the ILO-ISEC project at Himchari Bazar.
The team examined how capacity-building initiatives have empowered these entrepreneurs, helping them expand their businesses and contribute to the region’s economic vitality.
A notable highlight of the visit was the active participation of local women entrepreneurs, who showcased their handmade products, including jewelry, Nakshi Kantha.
The delegation praised Himchari Bazar’s unique cultural and natural assets and shared valuable insights into enhancing the local tourism landscape.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report/Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Courtesy
