DHAKA : Dhaka and
London have reaffirmed their commitment to working together to further
strengthen existing cooperation in transport, shipping, railways, port
development, trade, investment, and other areas of mutual interest.
The both sides reaffirmed it in a bilateral meeting
between Bangladesh’s Minister for Road Transport and Bridges, Shipping and
Railways Shaikh Rabiul Alam and United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for
Transport Heidi Alexander yesterday in London, said an official handout here
today.
Bangladesh minister conveyed the greetings of Prime
Minister Tarique Rahman to the UK Transport Secretary.
He said Bangladesh’s current government assumed office
through a free, fair, inclusive, and peaceful election with the overwhelming
support of the people and remains firmly committed to strengthening democracy,
good governance, accountability, and the rule of law.
Referring to the longstanding historical, friendly, and
multifaceted relations between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom, Alam
expressed appreciation for the UK’s support for Bangladesh’s democratic
transition.
He also sought the UK’s cooperation in expediting and simplifying
the issuance of OK to Board (OKTB) and other transit and seafarer-related visas
for Bangladeshi seafarers serving on international vessels.
The minister called for increased British investment,
joint ventures, technology transfer, and expanded public-private partnerships
in Bangladesh’s shipbuilding industry, marine engineering, port development,
maritime transport, and port-based industries.
He also underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral
trade and investment between the two countries.
Bangladesh minister noted that the present government is
committed to implementing the Hong Kong International Convention to ensure that
Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry meets international standard.
At present, 27 of the country’s 42 ship recycling yards
have achieved compliance with international standards, while work is underway
to upgrade the remaining yards in phases.
He further stated that Bangladesh strongly supports the
International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) global initiatives to address
climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Although Bangladesh is not a major contributor to global
greenhouse gas emissions, it continues to work closely with the international
community to promote environment friendly technologies, green growth, and a
sustainable maritime transport system.
Rabiul Alam invited Heidi Alexander to visit Bangladesh.
