We are immensely delighted to welcome this august gathering to the second SAMLF 2018. At this memorable moment we remember the famous quote by Father of the Nation, Bangla Bondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman – “The importance of endless sea resources,” which signifies the importance he gave to developing maritime excellence. For the first time in the history of Bangladesh he enacted the Territorial Water and Maritime Zones Act 1974 to establish the country’s sovereign right over the sea and its resources. Bangla Bondhu also managed to procure 19 ocean going ships almost free of cost from various friendly nations of Bangladesh.
It is a matter of great honour and pride that under the guidance and leadership of H.E. Sheikh Hasina, MP, Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Bangladesh has established its legitimate rights over the sea, developed ports with modern facilities and sustainable inland waterways by carrying out 1500 km of dredging in the past 10 years. The country has been able to procure 6 ocean going ships, increased efficiency of Chittagong and Mongla Ports by installing state-of-the-art equipment along with construction of new jetties and terminals. With her kind support Bangladesh is going to construct the Payra deep seaport and Matarbari commercial seaport that will further augment the trade by calling mother vessels to directly connect to Bangladesh and will significantly help in decongesting other existing ports in the country.
Bangladesh is a maritime country by the emergence of its geographical formation. The nation is not only connected to South Asia, but also connected to South East Asia, Asia Pacific, Europe, America and Africa as well. This forum brings together governments, trade associations and industries in South Asian region in contact with leading business enterprise from Europe, Middle East and South East Asia, to promote technology transfer, improve maritime relations, develop logistics and green shipping in the region.
“Under the leadership of Honourable Prime Minister, Bangladesh has established its legitimate rights over the sea, developed ports with modern facilities and sustainable inland waterways by carrying out 1500 km of dredging in the past 10 years.”
The conference will explore opportunities, find solutions for the existing challenges, share best practices and identify ways to collaborate. New business and investment opportunities in the region and respective countries will be promoted to a global audience.
