Bangladesh, June 4 -- Speaking at a press briefing at the Secretariat, the minister said efforts are underway to finalize the deal ahead of schedule.

"As per the timeline, the agreement will be signed by July 19. We are trying to complete the process even earlier. Our target is to make the third terminal operational by 16 December this year," he told reporters.

Millat also said the Japanese consortium would be responsible for appointing a second ground handling operator for the terminal.

The third terminal has remained idle for nearly 18 months due to unresolved issues over management responsibilities and revenue-sharing arrangements between CAAB and the Japanese side.

The consortium consists of Japan Airport Terminal Company, Sumito...