President, PM issue messages on World Maritime Day

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued separate messages on the occasion of World Maritime Day 2026.

Bangladesh is observing World Maritime Day 2026 under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) theme, “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.”

In his message, President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the Government remains steadfast in its vision to modernize 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.

To achieve our vision of a vibrant Blue Economy, we must shift our primary focus to practice-driven execution, supported by skilled human resources, adherence to global standards and a culture of innovation.

On this day, 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. May the spirit of World Maritime Day inspire us, and may Bangladesh continue to shine as a beacon of maritime excellence.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in his message said the current government is committed to transforming Bangladesh’s maritime sector into a modern, safe, competitive and environmentally sustainable driver of national development. “Our focus is on stronger implementation, modern infrastructure, greener shipping, skilled seafarers and effective maritime governance,” he said.

In its election manifesto, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) pledged to prioritise the development of the blue economy through the science-based and sustainable use of marine resources, deep-sea fishing, eco-tourism and coastal industries. The manifesto also committed to establishing a National Blue Economy Authority and estimated that these maritime initiatives could create huge new jobs, he said.

Noting that Bangladesh occupies a strategic position in the Bay of Bengal, the Prime Minister said more than 90% of our international trade is seaborne, while the seaports of Chattogram, Mongla and Payra, together with our extensive river network, sustain lives and livelihoods by facilitating the movement of essential goods and services across the country.

Tarique Rahman said the government has declared 2026 a ‘Year of Implementation,’ with four key priorities: advancing green shipping through the Hong Kong International Convention and world-class ship-recycling facilities; modernising port infrastructure through automated and digital logistics systems across Chattogram, Mongla and Payra; protecting marine sovereignty and ecosystems through expanded hydrography and action against marine plastic pollution; and empowering seafarers through upgraded maritime training institutes.

The Prime Minister called upon the country’s port authorities, ship-owners, seafarers, maritime professionals and environmental agencies to work together to translate global standards and national priorities into tangible results that generate economic opportunities, protect our marine environment and safeguard lives at sea.

“Together, let us harness Bangladesh’s maritime potential to build a stronger blue economy and a safer, greener and more prosperous future,” he said. -UNB