At the inaugural session of the 34th General Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London, retired Brigadier General Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Shipping Adviser to Bangladesh, articulated the significant progress Bangladesh has made in transitioning from a coastal economy to a prominent maritime nation. He emphasized the inseparable connection between the nation’s identity, future, and the sea, highlighting that modernization, innovation, and sustainable development are the driving forces behind this transformation.
Dr. Hossain provided an overview of the rapid digitalization and infrastructural advancements at Bangladesh’s three major seaports: Chattogram, Mongla, and Payra. He underscored the significance of the newly constructed Matarbari deep-sea port, which is set to enhance connectivity between South Asia and global trade networks.
A key point he raised was the contribution of over 21,000 Bangladeshi seafarers to the global maritime fleet, noting their skills, discipline, and reliability in representing the nation on international waters. Dr. Hossain expressed pride in their role as “Bangladesh’s envoys at sea”. He also acknowledged the robust partnership with the IMO, where Bangladesh has been actively involved in various committees focused on implementing equitable and transparent maritime regulations.
Citing the influential philosophy of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus—centered around the elimination of poverty, unemployment, and carbon emissions—Dr. Hossain framed this as a blueprint for Bangladesh’s future development. He highlighted the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 and the Blue Economy Roadmap as vital components of the nation’s maritime strategy, demonstrating commitment to adhering to IMO regulations, modernizing port infrastructure, and enhancing search-and-rescue capabilities.
During the assembly, which involved representatives from 176 member countries, Bangladesh is contesting for a position on the IMO Council in “Category C”. Dr. Hossain called for support from member states, emphasizing Bangladesh’s achievements in ship recycling, building, and recognized maritime training. He also referenced an initiative providing ten annual scholarships for seafarers from island nations and least developed countries to improve skills and promote international cooperation.
If re-elected to the IMO Council, Bangladesh aims to advocate for equitable access to technology and financing for developing maritime nations, as well as to promote professional training and capacity building in the sector. The adviser also emphasized the importance of climate-resilient, low-carbon shipping and the need for an inclusive IMO that offers equal opportunities to all member states.
Throughout the assembly, Bangladesh actively showcased its role and candidacy in global maritime affairs. Dr. Hossain engaged in bilateral meetings with Pakistan’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Belize’s Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics. Discussions with Pakistan centered on enhancing maritime trade between Chattogram and Karachi ports and fostering cooperation between their national shipping corporations. In talks with Belize, topics included ship recycling and opportunities for marine cadets from smaller nations to receive scholarships.
The meeting concluded with the participation of various Bangladeshi officials, including High Commissioner Abida Islam and Director General of the Department of Shipping, Commodore Md. Shafiul Bari, signifying a unified front in the nation’s maritime aspirations.
