German, Dutch delegations discuss maritime cooperation, green port initiatives with Ctg Port

Two separate high-level delegations from Germany and the Netherlands visited Chattogram Port today (12 May) to explore opportunities for maritime cooperation, port modernisation, logistics development and sustainable transport initiatives.

The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas including green port development, port digitalisation, maritime safety, hinterland connectivity, logistics management and maritime training, according to a press release.

German Ambassador to Bangladesh Rudiger Lotz visited Chattogram Port in the morning and held a courtesy meeting with Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) Member (Harbour and Marine) Commodore Ahmed Amin Abdullah.

During the meeting, both sides discussed prospects for expanding economic and trade relations between Bangladesh and Germany through enhanced maritime cooperation and port development initiatives.

The discussions also emphasised future collaboration in navigation technology, green port implementation, maritime security, port modernisation and maritime education and training.

Officials said both sides expressed optimism about jointly working in areas related to shipping, information technology, education and port management.

Later, the German ambassador visited operational areas of the port and was briefed on ongoing activities. He highly appreciated the overall operations and development initiatives of the country's premier seaport, according to the press release.

Senior officials from both CPA and the German embassy were present during the visit.

On the same day, a high-level delegation led by Netherlands Embassy Charge d'Affaires Koos Dijkstra also visited the port authority and held discussions with Commodore Ahmed Amin Abdullah.

The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation in port and maritime sectors, sustainable transport systems, logistics development and future infrastructure partnerships between Bangladesh and the Netherlands.

Key issues discussed included development of the Laldia Container Terminal, port digitalisation, capacity enhancement, integrated logistics services, shipbuilding, maritime ecosystem development, green port implementation and future port expansion plans.

The talks also highlighted the importance of expanding hinterland connectivity and reducing carbon emissions in port operations.

During the meeting, CPA officials briefed the Dutch delegation on ongoing development projects, modernisation initiatives and the strategic importance of Chattogram Port in Bangladesh's international trade.

CPA also sought Dutch cooperation in developing maritime education, skilled human resources and advanced training programmes related to maritime operations and ship repair.

The Dutch delegation assured support in areas including technical assistance, knowledge sharing, sustainable infrastructure development and future partnerships in Bangladesh's maritime and port sectors.

Following the meeting, CPA arranged a presentation on the port's operational activities, expansion plans and modernisation initiatives. The delegation later toured operational facilities at the port.

Among the Dutch delegation members were representatives from Nestra BV, including partner and multimodal transport specialist Harrie de Leijer and logistics expert Richard van Liere.

CPA Member (Finance) Mahbub Alam Talukdar, Member (Engineering) Commodore Mazharul Islam Jewel and other senior officials of the port authority were also present during the meetings.