Dhaka, Broadcasting News Corporation : President Md. Abdul Hamid has given the following message on the occasion of the World Maritime Day 2022 :
“On the auspicious occasion of ‘World Maritime Day 2022’, I extend my sincere felicitation to the shipping community, concerned authorities and organizations for celebrating this day with the theme ‘New Technologies for Greener Shipping’. The theme for this year is very time befitting as it addresses global climate changing issues and reflects on the need to support a green transition of shipping into a sustainable future.
United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) put emphasis on sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources. SDG 17 highlights the importance of partnerships and implementation to achieve these goals so that no single issue is left behind. Maritime transport has long been regarded as an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. In addition to their large capacity, marine vessels fuel-efficient engines emit less greenhouse gases. To contend with global warming, rise of sea level and adverse impact of climate change, greener technology is a must, International Maritime Organization has taken initiative for decarbonization of maritime transport and promotes innovation and green technologies. But to achieve these objectives, partnership is the prime concern as it allows all parties involved to share and disseminate information on best practices and access to resources. The maritime sector plays an important role in Bangladesh’s economy carrying 95 percent of total trade volume. In last few years, Bangladesh maritime sector has scaled a new height and contributed in boosting trade and commercial activities. The Government has focused on port-led development which includes expanding port capacities and making the existing systems more efficient. Waterways are being harnessed to ensure Bangladeshi products get better access to the world market. I hope concerned Government authorities and stakeholders will take proper and effective action to facilitate technologically efficient and sustainable use of our maritime resources.
I wish ‘World Maritime Day 2022’ a grand success.
Joi Bangla.
Khoda Hafez, May Bangladesh Live Forever.”