Dhaka: Lesley Craig, Head of the South Asia Regional Department at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) of the UK, along with Commodore Whalley, met Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today to discuss the procurement of the naval and survey vessel HMS Enterprise by the Bangladesh Navy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the HMS Enterprise is a versatile hydrographic survey ship designed for collecting hydrographic and oceanographic data. The UK delegation provided an overview of the ship’s various capabilities and roles to the Chief Adviser, as conveyed by Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder.
Professor Yunus expressed interest in understanding how the ship would enhance Bangladesh’s ability to survey and collect data from its maritime territory, benefiting scientific research and knowledge. He also requested the UK’s assistance in identifying additional equipment that could boost Bangladesh’s maritime capabilities, support resource exploration, study climate change impacts, aid in mangrove preservation, and facilitate fisheries studies and biodiversity research.
Additionally, the Chief Adviser emphasized the importance of bilateral research collaboration, leveraging the vessel’s capabilities for mutual benefit. He also highlighted the need for maritime education collaboration for young students to maximize the benefits of the vessel exchange.
Professor Yunus is confident that acquiring such a vessel will enable Bangladesh to better understand its oceans and resources, ultimately benefiting its people.