B'desh, Thailand discuss direct sea link between Ctg-Ranong ports

Bangladesh and Thailand have discussed the possibility of establishing a direct maritime link between Chattogram Port and Thailand's Ranong Port to reduce cargo transport time and costs and expand bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation.

The issue was discussed at a meeting between Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam and Thai Ambassador to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi at the minister's office at the Ministry of Shipping on Wednesday morning.

The meeting also focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in seaports, maritime transport, trade and investment.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Shipping, the Thai ambassador highlighted the potential benefits of establishing a direct maritime connection between the two ports. She said the link could create new opportunities for regional trade networks centred on the Bay of Bengal while facilitating cargo transportation and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

She expressed optimism that the initiative would create new opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries while enhancing regional connectivity and commercial cooperation.

Sheikh Robiul Alam welcomed the proposal, saying the modernisation of seaports and maritime transport and the expansion of international trade links were important for accelerating Bangladesh's economic progress.

The minister emphasised increasing the capacity and efficiency of Chattogram Port to reduce cargo handling and transportation time and costs. He also highlighted the need to expand international commercial connections to make the country's import and export activities more dynamic.

He said the government was interested in developing Bangladesh's maritime transport sector through mutual cooperation, experience-sharing and effective partnerships with friendly countries.

The minister assured support for further discussions and necessary initiatives to explore the possibility of establishing a direct maritime link between Chattogram and Ranong ports.

Both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening longstanding friendly relations and expanding cooperation in port development, maritime connectivity, trade and other areas of mutual interest.

Shipping Secretary Zakaria and senior ministry officials were also present at the meeting.

sks