The Netherlands has expressed interest in strengthening maritime cooperation with Bangladesh, with a focus on improving operational efficiency, expanding the use of modern technology and promoting sustainable port management at Chattogram Port.
A high-level delegation from the Dutch maritime sector, led by Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh Joris van Bommel, visited the Chattogram Port Authority (CPA) on Wednesday to explore potential areas of collaboration.
The delegation arrived at the port’s One-Stop Service building and held a courtesy meeting with the CPA chairman. Discussions covered port digitalisation, dredging, logistics, terminal operations, green port initiatives and the adoption of modern port management systems.
During the meeting, the CPA chairman briefed the delegation on the port’s recent progress in automation and digitalisation. He highlighted the introduction of paperless operations, the launch of the port community system ‘CPA Sky’ for the first time, and the provision of online billing, payment and delivery services under the One-Stop Service framework.
The potential role of foreign operators in terminal management was also discussed as part of the broader exchange on port operations and efficiency.
Ambassador Joris van Bommel recalled the longstanding trade and maritime ties between the Netherlands and Chattogram Port, expressing optimism about expanding technical cooperation and developing stronger strategic partnerships.
Pieter Oeds Kuipers, Trade Promotion Manager at Maritime & Offshore NL, delivered a presentation titled ‘Dutch Maritime Expertise and Solutions’, outlining the Dutch maritime sector’s experience, technical capabilities and potential solutions for port development.
Representatives of Dutch companies also shared proposals and insights on improving port efficiency, adopting environmentally sustainable practices and introducing modern port management systems.
During a subsequent question-and-answer session, both sides discussed dredging, logistics and terminal operations in greater detail. They also exchanged views on technical knowledge-sharing and potential avenues for future cooperation.
Following the meeting, the delegation toured several yards at Chattogram Port to observe its operational activities and management systems. The visitors expressed satisfaction with the port’s overall management.
Members of the CPA, project directors, heads of departments and other senior officials attended the meeting.
