The Maldivian High Commission in Bangladesh has hosted a specialised promotional exhibition in Dhaka to showcase the Maldives’ fisheries industry, culinary heritage and tourism sector. Titled “The Great Tuna Gala, Flavors from the Sunny Side,” the event brought together government representatives and industry leaders to explore opportunities for stronger commercial and tourism cooperation between the two countries.
M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, Bangladesh’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, attended the opening session as guest of honour. The gathering also welcomed senior Bangladeshi government officials, foreign ambassadors, business leaders and representatives from the tourism and seafood industries, providing a platform to introduce Maldivian products and experiences to influential audiences.
Organised jointly by the High Commission and chef Maha Naseer, the gala placed the Maldives’ marine heritage at the centre of its presentation. By combining sustainable fisheries promotion with live culinary demonstrations, the event connected the country’s seafood offering with the traditions and flavours that distinguish Maldivian cuisine.
Live cooking stations demonstrated the versatility of oceanic tuna through authentic dishes. Guests were introduced to “riha folhi” rolls filled with spiced tuna, traditional “mashuni” served with “roshi” flatbread, rich “masburi riha” fish curry, and tuna steaks seasoned with “lonumirus” chilli paste.
The selection illustrated how tuna features across different preparations, from familiar everyday dishes to contemporary dining presentations. These interactive experiences gave attendees an opportunity to discover Maldivian ingredients and cooking traditions while considering their appeal within seafood trade and tourism.
During her address, Shiuneen Rasheed, High Commissioner of the Maldives to Bangladesh, emphasised the foundational role of fisheries in the Maldivian economy, rural communities and cultural identity. Her remarks highlighted the close relationship between the industry, island livelihoods and the country’s longstanding connection to the ocean.
The High Commissioner identified opportunities to broaden commercial cooperation by expanding seafood exports to Bangladesh and developing new tourism avenues. Presenting both sectors together allowed the event to demonstrate how Maldivian marine products and destination experiences can complement one another in international promotion.
Minister Millat also highlighted substantial potential to strengthen bilateral relations through joint promotional initiatives in fisheries and tourism. His remarks underscored the value of continued engagement between government institutions and businesses to explore shared opportunities.
For the Maldives, the Dhaka showcase offered a setting to connect seafood promotion with destination storytelling. Culinary experiences can introduce audiences to the country’s culture while giving tourism representatives another way to communicate its appeal beyond its recognised island scenery.
The exhibition forms part of the Maldivian Government’s diplomatic efforts to promote marine products internationally. By bringing officials, businesses and industry representatives together around sustainable fisheries and authentic cuisine, “The Great Tuna Gala” supported further dialogue on seafood exports, tourism development and stronger economic ties between the Maldives and Bangladesh.
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