Govt working to protect marine resources for economic prosperity: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said her government is working to safeguard marine resources and trade for economic prosperity.

"Our government has taken robust measure for the marine sector's development, considering the immense potential of the marine resources," she said while formally inaugurating the International Fleet Review-2022 at Inani in Cox's Bazar.

Bangladesh Navy has organised the event titled "Friendship Beyond the Horizon".

The prime minister said her government is working to enhance the capability of Bangladesh navy, turning it into a modern force with quality development programmes over times to protect marine resources of the country.

The four-day IFR began with the participation of navies and maritime organisations from 28 countries including the USA, UK, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, India, China, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Turkey, the Netherlands and the host Bangladesh.

The IFR is being held in Cox's Bazar marking the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Golden Jubilee of the country's Independence.

The prime minister said safety of the seas is essential for ensuring free international trade as currently 90 percent of the global trade is done through waterways.

Through successfully organising the IFR, Bangladesh has proved that "We also can do", the premier said.