Emphasis on strengthening regional cooperation in maritime security and ocean governance
The Bangladesh Institute of Maritime Research and Development (BIMRAD) organized a workshop aimed at strengthening regional cooperation for the development of a sustainable blue economy and the enhancement of ocean governance in the Bay of Bengal.
Held at BIMRAD’s seminar hall in Dhaka under the Australia Awards Fellowship 2026 program, the workshop was titled “Enabling a Sustainable Blue Economy in the Bay of Bengal (Indian Ocean).”
Admiral Khandaker Misbah-ul-Azim, Chief of the Bangladesh Navy and Chief Patron of BIMRAD, attended the event as the chief guest. The Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh was present as the special guest. Additionally, the Chairman of BIMRAD, representatives from the University of Wollongong (Australia), and other relevant stakeholders participated in the event. Fifteen fellows from various countries took part in the workshop.
Discussions at the workshop covered several critical topics, including the sustainable blue economy, maritime security, ocean governance, marine resource management, fisheries conservation, and climate resilience. Participants also shared their professional experiences.
In his address, the Chief of the Navy emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and the practical application of acquired knowledge. Noting that such fellowships can create new opportunities for regional cooperation, he congratulated the participants. He also urged them to leverage their knowledge and professional experience to address maritime challenges and contribute to the development of a sustainable blue economy.
This fellowship, administered by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, was organized by the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS) at the University of Wollongong.
Participants had the opportunity to identify potential areas for collaboration in joint research, policymaking, and the sustainable management of marine resources. Emphasis was also placed on fostering professional connections across countries, expanding institutional cooperation, and effectively applying acquired knowledge to tackle shared maritime challenges. BIMRAD highlights the need for regional partnerships, effective ocean governance, and coordinated initiatives to harness the marine resources and economic potential of the Bay of Bengal for sustainable development. Such initiatives are expected to contribute to marine research, policymaking, and the expansion of regional cooperation.
