Dhaka, January 14 — Bangladesh has taken a significant step toward strengthening marine conservation and promoting a sustainable blue economy as the Maheshkhali Integrated Development Authority (MIDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan’s Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF).
The MoU signing ceremony was held at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka, in the presence of Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus. The agreement was signed by Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud bin Harun, Executive Chairman of MIDA, and Professor Mitsutaku Makino, President of the Ocean Policy Research Institute (OPRI) under the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
Speaking at the event, Professor Yunus emphasized the importance of protecting Bangladesh’s marine environment, noting that the country’s vast ocean resources are under growing pressure from pollution and unsustainable practices. He expressed optimism that the partnership would contribute to long-term environmental protection and economic sustainability.
Under the agreement, the two sides will collaborate on fisheries development, marine resource conservation, seafood processing infrastructure, coastal tourism research, and community-based livelihood initiatives. The partnership also includes plans for capacity-building programs, such as training on deep-sea fishing, seafood handling, and marine safety standards.
Professor Makino described the collaboration as a meaningful opportunity to enhance marine research and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan. Both parties expressed confidence that the initiative would benefit coastal communities while promoting responsible marine governance.
The MoU was signed on the sidelines of a regional dialogue focusing on sustainable blue economy development, regional connectivity, and resilience among coastal and island nations in the Indian Ocean region.
Source: The Business Standard (TBS), Bonik Barta
