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Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has called for coordinated efforts by all relevant institutions to harness the vast potential of Bangladesh’s maritime and shipping sectors.
He said the country already has the necessary institutions and infrastructure for the maritime sector, but these need to be utilised in a coordinated manner to further develop the promising industry.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a programme marking World Maritime Day and the 64th founding anniversary of Bangladesh Marine Academy on Thursday (September 24).
Sheikh Rabiul said many countries had established strong positions in the global economy by tapping the potential of the ocean-based economy and trade, and Bangladesh also had significant opportunities in the sector.
He called for identifying inconsistencies and taking swift measures to resolve them while overcoming the limitations of the past.
The minister said the economy and trade of nearly 8 billion people worldwide depend on maritime routes, while the number of skilled professionals directly involved in this huge sector remains relatively small.
“Therefore, it is extremely important to develop skilled manpower and increase investment in the maritime sector,” he said.
He added that the government would provide necessary support and attention to create new entrepreneurs by utilising experienced professionals with long-standing expertise in the sector.
On increasing the capacity of Chattogram Port, Sheikh Rabiul said initiatives were underway to enhance capacity through domestic and foreign investment and modern technologies in various projects, including the Patenga Container Terminal (PCT), New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldia and Bay Terminal.
Investment is also increasing at Mongla Port and in various economic zones, he said.
The minister stressed that service quality and efficiency must also be improved to reap the benefits of these investments.
Chattogram-13 MP Sarwar Jamal Nizam, Shipping Ministry Secretary Md Zakaria and Bangladesh Merchant Marine Officers Association (BMMOA) President Captain Anam Chowdhury addressed the programme as special guests.
The first session included a guard of honour, parade inspection, a colourful rally, balloon release and tree plantation. The second session featured a discussion, cake cutting, lunch and a cultural programme.