IUB signs MOU with Ankara University on maritime law
The Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies (CBoBS) at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for the Sea and Maritime Law (DEHUKAM) of Ankara University, Turkey.
This agreement launches collaborative research, academic exchanges, and joint policy initiatives to address maritime challenges, exchange expertise, and foster global leadership in maritime law and governance. The virtual signing ceremony, connecting Dhaka and Ankara, took place on 8 August 2025.
The MoU establishes a framework for collaborative research, academic exchanges, and joint policy work to advance maritime expertise and governance.
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Professor M Tamim, Vice Chancellor of IUB, and Dr Mustafa Başkara, CEO of DEHUKAM, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions. The collaboration encompasses research on maritime challenges, exchanges, the sharing of technical knowledge, and policy development. Both institutions aim to deliver scalable solutions for sustainable ocean governance and strengthen academic and operational engagement.
Professor Tamim described the MoU as a significant advancement toward active collaboration in sustainable ocean governance and maritime law, emphasising that partnerships should yield tangible results beyond symbolic agreements.
Dr Başkara noted DEHUKAM's expertise in maritime law, policy, and marine spatial planning. He emphasised their team of 24 senior researchers and the importance of collaborative training, resource sharing, and joint initiatives with CBoBS.
Ambassador Tariq Karim, Advisor to CBoBS, highlighted the centuries-old ties between Bangladesh and Turkey. He referred to both nations as "bridge nations" with a responsibility to uphold maritime peace, trade, and the rule of law. He urged partnerships that deliver practical results.
Rear Admiral Md Khurshed Alam (Retd), Director of CBoBS, recalled his 1997 naval training in Turkey. He underlined the potential for capacity building, knowledge exchange, and applied maritime research. He said Bangladesh's maritime trade and Turkey's location support sustained cooperation.
This MoU sets the stage for advancing practical maritime research and policy between Bangladesh and Turkey, with a focus on developing new solutions, academic exchanges, and joint projects that address current and future ocean governance challenges.
