We can’t repay the debt of Bangabandhu’s blood: Shipping Minister Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury

Chattogram, May 5th - The National Maritime Institute, Chattogram, held its Special Batch-2023 graduation ceremony on Sunday, where the Minister of Shipping, Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury, emphasized the debt of gratitude owed to Bangabandhu for Bangladesh‍‍`s independence. He stated, "We cannot repay the debt of Bangabandhu‍‍`s blood."

Minister Khalid Mahmud further added, "By playing our roles as patriotic citizens, we show respect to Bangabandhu."

Highlighting the unprecedented successes achieved under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina‍‍`s leadership in the last 15 years, Minister Khalid Mahmud emphasized the need to maintain this progress. He mentioned ongoing projects such as the construction of a deep-sea port in Matarbari and the upcoming upgrade of Chattogram Port‍‍`s terminal. Bangladesh has also been elected as a ‍‍`C‍‍` category member in the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Projects like Payra Port construction and upgrades to Mongla and Chattogram ports are underway.

The Minister also noted Bangladesh Shipping Corporation‍‍`s acquisition of six ships and ongoing efforts for further acquisitions. He highlighted the establishment of four new maritime academies during the current government‍‍`s tenure and plans for three more. Additionally, he mentioned the establishment of the world-renowned Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University during Sheikh Hasina‍‍`s government. The quality of training at the National Maritime Institute (NMI) has been recognized by international maritime organizations and the European Union‍‍`s Maritime Safety Agency, ensuring its continuous excellence.

Minister Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury emphasized the rapid advancements in the global maritime sector due to digitalization and the corresponding training arrangements made for officers and sailors. He mentioned Bangladesh‍‍`s vision to become a developed and prosperous smart nation by 2041.

Addressing the trainees, the Minister said, "You will uphold your duty with sincerity, dedication, and patriotism, serving as ambassadors for our country."

Among other speakers at the event were Mo. Mustafa Kamal, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping; Mo. Gias Uddin Ahmed, Chief Nautical Surveyor of the Department of Shipping; and Captain Ataur Rahman, Chairman of the National Maritime Institute, Chattogram. Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, was also present at the ceremony.