Bangladesh has called for increased British investment, joint ventures, and technology transfer in its shipbuilding industry as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral economic and maritime cooperation.
The appeal was made by Road Transport, Bridges, Railways and Shipping Adviser Sheikh Robiul Alam during a bilateral meeting with UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander in London on Thursday, according to a statement issued by the Department of Information on Friday.
At the outset of the meeting, Robiul Alam conveyed the greetings of Prime Minister Tarek Rahman to his British counterpart. He said the current government assumed office through a free, fair, participatory, and peaceful election and remains committed to democracy, good governance, accountability, and the rule of law.
Highlighting the longstanding ties between the two countries, the Bangladeshi adviser thanked the UK for its support during Bangladesh’s democratic transition. He also sought British cooperation in simplifying and expediting OKTB and other transit and seafarer-related visas for Bangladeshi sailors serving on international vessels.
Robiul Alam urged greater British investment and public-private partnerships in Bangladesh’s shipbuilding, marine engineering, port development, maritime transport, and port-based industries. He also emphasized expanding bilateral trade, investment, and technology transfer.
The adviser said Bangladesh is committed to implementing the Hong Kong International Convention to ensure internationally compliant ship recycling practices. Of the country’s 42 ship recycling yards, 27 have already been upgraded to meet international standards, while the remaining facilities are being modernized in phases.
He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s support for the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) global initiatives to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, noting the country’s commitment to promoting environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable maritime transport.
Both sides expressed their commitment to expanding cooperation in transport, shipping, railways, port development, trade, and investment.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Robiul Alam invited UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander to visit Bangladesh.
