Bangladesh emerges as rising maritime nation: Shipping adviser

Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain said that Bangladesh has advanced from a coastal economy to an emerging maritime nation, driven by modernisation, innovation and sustainable development.

"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 modernisation, 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 (24 November), said a ministry press release today (25 November). 

He outlined a snapshot of the rapid digitalisation 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.

Emphasising 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.

Referring to the long-standing and constructive partnership with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), he said Bangladesh actively participates in various IMO committees, especially in ensuring the implementation of fair, transparent, and orderly global maritime regulations.

Citing the philosophy of Nobel Peace Prize-winning interim government's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, the Adviser said, the philosophy- three zeros- zero poverty, zero unemployment and zero carbon emission- is defining the country's future development.  

He described the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 and the Blue Economy Roadmap as the strong foundations for the country's maritime progress. He said Bangladesh is ensuring full implementation of IMO regulations, modernising port infrastructure, enhancing search-and-rescue capabilities, and expanding port-related facilities.

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 favour 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 further stated that if re-elected to the IMO Council, Bangladesh will work to ensure fair access to technology and financing for developing maritime nations, promote professional training and capacity building in the seafarer and maritime sectors.

It would also support climate-resilient, low-carbon shipping and lead the development of an inclusive IMO where all member states, large and small, have equal opportunities, he added. 

Throughout the session, through various programs, discussions, and networking events, Bangladesh showcased its candidacy and positive role in global maritime affairs.

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 emphasised 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 the 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.