Principal Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that the Bay of Bengal is very important for the economy, security and environmental balance of Bangladesh. Not only Bangladesh, but also neighboring countries are largely dependent on the Bay of Bengal for their economic prosperity, he said.
He made this call in a message on Friday (June 20) on the occasion of ‘World Hydrography Day-2025’.
Urging hydrographic professionals to work with more professionalism, efficiency and dedication to build a complete hydrographic database of the country’s maritime borders, the Chief said that to further strengthen and enrich the foundation of Bangladesh’s economy, an effective and sustainable maritime policy must be developed through accurate mapping of the seabed.
This year, the theme of the day – ‘Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action’ – which highlights the need for mapping the deep seabed, is very appropriate, said Professor Muhammad Yunus.
He said that the current interim government is working with the goal of transforming the country into a productive and regional economic hub. To achieve this goal, there is no alternative to detailed, updated and accurate hydrographic information to use marine resources more effectively.
Professor Muhammad Yunus said, ‘The Hydrographic Department of the Bangladesh Navy is working tirelessly to conduct hydrographic surveys of the coastal areas and sea borders of Bangladesh, prepare charts, ensure the safety of all domestic and foreign ships, and exchange information and data according to international standards. Especially according to the United Nations Law of the Sea, the activities of the Hydrographic Department are very important in determining our oceanic shelf area and developing the blue economy.
He expressed hope that, in addition to ensuring our military and naval security, the Hydrography Department will play a more active role in the development of seaports, conservation of fisheries resources, oil and gas exploration, and coastal disaster management.