Dhaka: The Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam today directed the authorities concerned to take immediate steps to resolve visa, transit, and crew change-related problems faced by Bangladeshi seafarers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other countries. "The expansion of employment opportunities for Bangladeshi seafarers in the international shipping industry and ensuring their smooth movement are closely linked to the national interest," the minister stated while chairing the first meeting of the National Maritime Council at the Shipping Ministry.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister urged relevant ministries and agencies to strengthen inter-ministerial coordination and diplomatic engagement with the relevant countries and, if necessary, form a committee to address these issues. The meeting was attended by State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md Rajib Ahsan, MP, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other ministries, divisions and agencies, and stakeholders from the maritime industry.
Different difficulties faced by Bangladeshi seafarers in obtaining UAE transit visas, crew change visas, shore passes, and entry clearances dominated the discussion, said a release this afternoon. Although Bangladesh is a major supplier of seafarers globally, these restrictions have recently created obstacles to recruitment, crew relief, and employment aboard international vessels, resulting in shrinking overseas job opportunities and reducing the country's foreign currency earnings, the participants observed.
The meeting underscored the need for intensifying diplomatic efforts with the UAE and other relevant countries, including through the Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Bangladesh Consulate General in Dubai, to ensure the smooth movement of Bangladeshi seafarers. The council also reviewed Bangladesh's preparations for the 2028 IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), implementation of the Hong Kong Convention, development of a roadmap for Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF), and measures to implement the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Net-Zero Framework.
Additionally, the meeting emphasized formulating a comprehensive National Maritime Policy to enhance maritime security, promote the blue economy, modernize port management, expand employment opportunities for seafarers, and ensure the sustainable development of the country's maritime sector.