Bangladesh promoted its maritime workforce at a major international shipping forum in China, seeking to strengthen its position as a global supplier of skilled seafarers and expand cooperation with China in maritime education, technology transfer and employment.
A four-member delegation led by Capt Kazi ABM Shameem, commandant of Bangladesh Marine Academy, represented the country at the China Maritime Forum 2026 and the International Conference on Ship Technology and Safety 2026, held in Yangzhou on 10-11 July to mark China Maritime Day.
Addressing the forum, Capt Shameem outlined Bangladesh’s progress in modernising maritime education and training, saying the country’s institutions are equipping seafarers with internationally recognised competencies, practical skills, digital knowledge and technological expertise to meet the shipping industry’s shift towards smart and green operations.
Bangladesh also took part in a high-level panel on maritime human resource development, where Capt Sayeed Ahmed, controller of maritime education at the Department of Shipping, exchanged views with international policymakers and industry experts on preparing the global maritime workforce for technological change.
The delegation also attended the International Conference on Ship Technology and Safety, where discussions focused on emerging ship technologies, maritime safety, environmental sustainability, innovation and international collaboration.
On the sidelines, the Bangladeshi delegation explored opportunities to deepen cooperation with China in maritime education, training, technology transfer and seafarer employment to expand overseas job opportunities for Bangladeshi maritime professionals.
Other members of the delegation were Capt Ataur Rahman, principal of the National Maritime Institute, Chattogram, and Marine Engineer Mohammad Shahid Ullah, acting principal of the National Maritime Institute, Madaripur.
Officials said Bangladesh’s participation reflected its strategy to develop a globally competitive seafaring workforce and strengthen its position as an emerging maritime nation in the global shipping industry.
