President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for renewed efforts to advance Bangladesh’s shipping and maritime sectors in line with international standards.
“I call upon all stakeholders—policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, seafarers and citizens—to unite and work with renewed dedication and integrity to advance Bangladesh’s shipping and maritime sectors in line with international standards,” he said.
The president made the call in a message issued on the occasion of World Maritime Day 2026.
He said effective implementation of international standards, stronger institutional capacity, maritime safety, environmental sustainability and professional excellence were essential for Bangladesh to fully harness the potential of its maritime sector.
Mirza Fakhrul said the theme selected by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for this year, ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’, was timely and highly relevant.
“Bangladesh is a maritime nation by destiny and heritage, blessed with an expansive coastline and a strategically vital location in the Bay of Bengal,” he said.
He said regulatory policies gained real significance when translated into concrete action, effective enforcement and operational excellence.
“Our policies on maritime safety, port modernisation and sustainable shipping are now being realised through digitalisation of port operations, stronger compliance, maritime education and adherence to international conventions,” he said.
The president said the government remained committed to transforming Bangladesh into a hub of maritime excellence by investing in modern infrastructure, promoting green and resilient shipping, protecting marine biodiversity in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and integrating advanced technologies for efficiency and transparency.
He stressed the need to focus on practice-driven implementation supported by skilled human resources, global standards and a culture of innovation to build a vibrant Blue Economy.
The president extended greetings and felicitations to seafarers, the maritime community, port workers, shipping industry professionals, relevant authorities and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion.
“May the spirit of World Maritime Day inspire us, and may Bangladesh continue to shine as a beacon of maritime excellence,” he said, wishing success to programmes organised to mark the day.
