Tap maritime resources

There is no alternative to unlocking the huge potential of the country's vast sea area and using the maritime resources for the nation's further development, said President Abdul Hamid yesterday.

He also asked the members of the naval force to ensure the security of maritime boundary and resources.

Hamid came up with the remarks while speaking at a commissioning function of four warships that were formally handed over to Bangladesh Navy at Titumir Naval Base Jetty of Khalishpur in Khulna.

“A vast sea area of Bangladesh is full of fish, mineral oil, natural gas and other undiscovered resources. It also has huge economic potential...,” he said.

“The country has a 710-kilometre coastal area, and about three crore people of this area are directly and indirectly dependent on the sea. As over 90 percent trade and business with the foreign countries are being conducted on sea routes, ensuring strict security measures in marine areas is a must for economic development.”

Hamid asked the Navy members to ensure the sovereignty of maritime boundary and security of ship movement. He also asked them to continue their all-out efforts to uphold the country's image.

Hamid, also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, said a significant number of warships, maritime helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft have been included in the fleet of Bangladesh Navy during the period of the current government. The president also hoped that different domestic shipyards, including Khulna Shipyard, would play a significant role in socioeconomic development by exporting water vessels in the days to come.

He also handed over the four warships -- Nishan, Durgam, Halda and Pashur -- to Bangladesh Navy after the commissioning ceremony.

Prime Minister's International Affairs Adviser Dr Gowher Rizvi, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Narayan Chandra Chanda, Attorney General Mahbubey Alam, Army Chief General Abu Belal Muhammad Shafiul Huq, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed, lawmakers, secretaries concerned to the president and senior military and civil officials were also present.