There is a great opportunity to advance the country's economy by ensuring the best use of renewable energy in the coastal areas and the sea's mineral and animal resources, said Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury.
“Potential of this sustainable sector should be utilised effectively in coordination with the private sector and development partners as there is no alternative to integrated initiatives for the best use of marine resources,” she said while speaking as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the international conference organised by the General Economics Department (GED) of the Planning Commission on Wednesday (3 July).
At the event, the speaker said everyone has to work together to face various challenges including climate change, and sea pollution.
She also emphasised the importance of exchanging modern technology, ideas and experience for the proper use of sustainable marine resources.
The speaker sought the support of all concerned in the development and sustainable management of the marine ecosystem.
At this time, she said, “Once the Matarbari deep sea port is completed, it will become a trade hub for South and Southeast Asian countries.”
The speaker also said the potential of the blue economy can be exploited through public-private partnerships.
She also said the challenges of overfishing, population growth and climate change must be addressed to ensure sustainable use of the oceans.
GED Member Secretary Dr Kawsar Ahmed presided over the opening session of the conference with Planning Minister Abdus Salam as the special guest.
The minister said the government has an opportunity to sustainably utilise the country's marine resources in coordination with the private sector and researchers.
Commenting there is no alternative to using blue economy to ensure sustainable development, he said it can become the lifeline of the economy.
Urging more research on the marine economy, he said, “Bangladesh is giving importance to renewable energy to meet the demand for electricity.”
State Minister for Planning Md Shahiduzzaman Sarkar, Cabinet Secretary Mahbub Hossain, Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President Yingming Young and ADB Country Director Edimon Ginting among others also spoke at the event.
State Minister for Planning Shahiduzzaman Sarkar said sea transport is playing a major role in the expansion of export and import.
He said, “Government is working under the leadership of the prime minister to face the challenges of the marine economy.”
The minister also said sustainable oceans will be ensured for future generations.
Cabinet Secretary Mahbub Hossain said besides strengthening disaster management through the implementation of Delta Plan 2100.
The government is building various infrastructures including ports to utilise the sea, he added.
Stating that there is no alternative to a blue economy for Bangladesh's sustainable economy, the ADB vice president said financial and technical assistance will be provided in this sector.
Prime Minister's Economic Adviser Dr Moshiur Rahman and policymakers and local and foreign experts also spoke in various sessions of the day-long conference.
