Accra:A seminar at a city hotel featured Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam discussing the formulation of a 'National Port Strategy' aimed at advancing Bangladesh's economy and international trade.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Shipping Minister emphasized the need for coordination and effective strategies in managing sea, river, and land ports, as a large part of the country's import-export activities are linked to these ports.
The seminar, organized by the Ministry of Shipping, was attended by State Minister for Shipping Md Razib Ahsan, JICA Bangladesh Office's Chief Representative Junko Takahashi, and various stakeholders including port authority chairmen, ministry representatives, and experts.
Rabiul stressed that the national port strategy should prioritize the broader economic interests of Bangladesh without undermining the authority of any specific agency or ministry. He highlighted the urgency of enhancing port capacities and improving operational systems to keep pace with economic progress.
The strategy is being developed with input from JICA and local and international experts, aiming to integrate the opinions of all relevant parties. The minister reiterated the importance of mutual cooperation among authorities to support coordinated initiatives.
Rabiul noted that the country's ports are managed by separate authorities involving multiple ministries and entities, underlining the importance of inclusive consultation for the strategy's formulation. He cautioned against prioritizing any single party's interests to ensure successful outcomes.