Accra:The need for stronger regional cooperation to promote a sustainable blue economy and enhance maritime governance in the Bay of Bengal was emphasized at a workshop held today. The Bangladesh Institute of Maritime Research and Development (BIMRAD) organized this event at its seminar hall under the Australia Awards Fellowship 2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief of Naval Staff and BIMRAD Chief Patron Admiral Khondker Misbah Ul Azim attended the workshop as the chief guest, with the Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh present as the special guest.
Fifteen fellows from various countries participated in the workshop. They discussed topics such as sustainable blue economy development, maritime security, ocean governance, marine resource management, fisheries conservation, and climate resilience.
During the event, the Navy Chief emphasized the importance of knowledge-sharing and the practical application of acquired expertise to address maritime challenges. He congratulated the fellows on receiving the fellowship and encouraged them to use their professional experience to advance sustainable blue economy development.
Admiral Azim highlighted that the fellowship could create new opportunities for regional cooperation among Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka. The program also underscored opportunities for joint research, policymaking, institutional cooperation, and sustainable marine resource management.
The fellowship is administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and organized by the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security at the University of Wollongong.