According to Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, modernization, innovation, and sustainable development have propelled Bangladesh from a coastal economy to an emergent maritime nation.
“Bangladesh is a maritime nation whose identity and future are inseparably tied to the sea. Over the past decade, the country has progressed from a coastal economy into a rising maritime nation, guided by modernization, innovation and sustainability,” he said.
The adviser made the remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the 34th General Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London yesterday, said a ministry press release today.
He outlined a snapshot of the rapid digitalization and infrastructural development of Bangladesh’s three major seaports – Chattogram, Mongla, and Payra. He particularly highlighted the construction of the Matarbari deep-sea port, which will directly connect South Asia to the global trade network.
Emphasizing Bangladesh’s human resources, Sakhawat noted that over 21,000 Bangladeshi seafarers maintain the nation’s reputation in the global maritime fleet through their skill, discipline, and reliability. “They are not just workers; they are Bangladesh’s envoys at sea,” he added.
He stated that Bangladesh actively participates in several IMO committees, particularly in ensuring the implementation of just, transparent, and orderly international maritime legislation, referring to the long-standing and fruitful collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The adviser stated that the three zeros—zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero carbon emissions—are defining the nation’s future development, citing the concept of Nobel Peace Prize-winning interim government Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus.
He characterized the Blue Economy Roadmap and the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 as solid pillars for the nation’s maritime development. According to him, Bangladesh is increasing port-related facilities, modernizing port infrastructure, improving search-and-rescue capabilities, and making sure that IMO regulations are fully implemented.
One of the main agendas of the IMO assembly, held with the participation of high-level representatives from 176 member countries around the world, is the election of 40 members to the council for the next two years, where Bangladesh is contesting as a candidate in “Category C”.
Referring to Bangladesh’s candidacy for the IMO Council for the 2026-27 term, the Shipping Adviser called on representatives of 175 member countries to vote in favor of Bangladesh.
He highlighted Bangladesh’s consistent achievements in ship recycling, shipbuilding, and various maritime trade sectors, as well as the recognition of world-class maritime training.
He also mentioned that Bangladesh has already initiated the provision of ten annual scholarships for seafarers from island nations and least developed countries to enhance their skills and promote cooperation.
The adviser added that if Bangladesh is re-elected to the IMO Council, it will endeavor to guarantee developing maritime nations equitable access to technology and funding, as well as to advance professional training and capacity building in the seafarer and marine sectors.
Additionally, he said, it would promote low-carbon, climate-resilient shipping and spearhead the creation of an inclusive IMO with equal possibilities for all member states, regardless of size.
Bangladesh demonstrated its candidacy and constructive involvement in international maritime affairs throughout the session through a variety of programs, conversations, and networking opportunities.
During the session, the Shipping Adviser held separate bilateral meetings with Pakistan’s Minister of Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar and Belize’s Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and LogisticsMaritime Affairs, Michelle Chebat.
In the meeting with Pakistan, discussions focused on expanding maritime trade between Chattogram and Karachi ports, enhancing cooperation between Bangladesh Shipping Corporation and Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, among other key issues.
The Adviser invited Pakistan’s Maritime Minister to visit Bangladesh, and in turn received an invitation to visit Pakistan. Both sides emphasized strengthening cooperation in the maritime sector.
In the meeting with Belize, detailed discussions were held on ship recycling, maritime trade, and human resource development.
The Adviser highlighted opportunities for marine cadets from Caribbean and small island states to receive open scholarships at Chattogram Marine Academy. Belize’s Minister expressed gratitude for this opportunity and interest in future cooperation.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to London Abida Islam and Director General of the Department of Shipping Commodore Md. Shafiul Bari, along with other officials, participated in the session.
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