The United Tourism Stakeholders Society of Bangladesh (UTSSOB) and the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 15, 2026, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership to promote tourism research, knowledge exchange, and sustainable tourism development.
The MoU was signed on behalf of UTSSOB by Mr. H.M. Hakim Ali, President, and Mr. Rezaul Ekram, General Secretary. Representing COTRI, the agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Georg Arlt, CEO and Founder. Mr. Taufiq Rahman, Vice President of UTSSOB, was also present at the signing ceremony.
The partnership aims to foster long-term collaboration in tourism research, destination studies, market intelligence, policy advocacy, capacity building, seminars, workshops, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise. Both organizations will work together on joint research initiatives, publications, and projects that support sustainable, responsible, and regenerative tourism practices.
The MoU also seeks to strengthen institutional cooperation, facilitate the sharing of international best practices, encourage innovation in destination management, and contribute to evidence-based tourism policy and planning. Through this collaboration, UTSSOB and COTRI aspire to enhance the competitiveness of Bangladesh’s tourism sector and promote the country as a sustainable and attractive destination in the global tourism market.
Speaking on the occasion, the representatives of both organizations expressed confidence that this partnership will contribute significantly to research-driven tourism development and deepen international cooperation for the long-term growth of the tourism industry.