US embassy cable - 05DHAKA2988

UNCLAS DHAKA 002988 
 
SIPDIS 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: ECON, ETRD, PGOV, BG 
SUBJECT: AMBASSADOR MEETS WITH CIVIL AVIATION MINISTER 
 
 
1.  On June 23, Ambassador Thomas met with Minister of Civil 
Aviation Mir Mohammad Nasiruddin.  He was accompanied by 
EconOff as notetaker.  They discussed Bangladesh's commitment 
to aviation security and compliance with the Chicago 
Convention; and progress in BDG's purchase of four Boeing 
777s. 
 
2.  The Minister affirmed BDG's commitment to security in 
Bangladesh airports and in Biman's operations.  The Minister 
presented the latest FAA evaluation document that gave a 
"satisfactory" rating on BDG's compliance with the Chicago 
Convention and FAA requirements.  He stated that BDG's Civil 
Aviation Authority and Biman Bangladesh is in compliance with 
international and U.S. standards.  He reiterated his 
commitment to security and to the war against terrorism. 
 
3.  Minister Nasiruddin said that Biman is committed to 
improving its fleet.  The deal to purchase four Boeing 777 
jets for long-haul and six Airbuses for shorter routes is in 
the final stages, with the contract under review in the 
Purchase Committee.  He said that he expects to meet with the 
finance minister soon to discuss issuance of sovereign 
guarantee.  Ambassador welcomed the progress on the purchase 
agreement.  On the issue of financing, he assured the 
Minister that financing for such a deal is possible and that 
EXIM Bank and Citigroup will work with the BDG on this.  He 
told the Minister that BDG will get the same financing deal 
as Pakistan.  He also encouraged the Minister to move forward 
on becoming a signatory to the Capetown Protocol.  He said 
that BDG would be able to get even lower rates if and when 
they sign the Capetown Protocol. 
 
4.  Ambassador Thomas emphasized that it is essential that 
BDG continue to remain vigilant regarding FAA regulations to 
prevent terrorism and eliminate safety problems.  The 
Minister took the point. 
THOMAS