Former Germany World Cup winner Mesut Özil has arrived in Dhaka for a humanitarian visit that combines development work and refugee outreach, drawing widespread public attention across Bangladesh.
Mesut Özil attended the inauguration of a Turkish-backed TIKA project at Dhaka University, aimed at upgrading facilities at the Shaheed Mortuza Medical Centre. The initiative focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure and services for students and the surrounding community, reflecting ongoing cooperation between Bangladesh and Turkey in the health and education sectors.
The presence of the 2014 FIFA World Cup champion at the university event generated significant excitement among students and football fans, while also shining a spotlight on the importance of international collaboration in community development.
During his visit, Mesut Özil is also scheduled to travel to Rohingya refugee camps to observe conditions and meet displaced families. The trip comes ahead of Ramadan, and he is expected to join an Iftar gathering with refugees. The engagement aims to raise awareness of the humanitarian challenges facing the Rohingya community and to show solidarity during the holy month.
Mesut Özil arrived in Bangladesh on 17 February and is expected to depart after completing his engagements on 19 February. His short stay highlights how global sports figures are increasingly using their platforms to support humanitarian causes and bring international focus to local initiatives.
The TIKA project at Dhaka University represents a broader partnership between Bangladesh and Turkey centred on healthcare improvement and community support. Organisers hope that the involvement of a globally recognised athlete will help attract further attention and backing for development efforts in the country.
