The 25th International Conference of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission (NIOHC) has begun in Chattogram, aiming to strengthen Bangladesh’s maritime safety, safe navigation and blue economy potential.
The three-day conference, organized by the Bangladesh Navy, commenced on Monday with the participation of maritime and hydrographic experts, diplomats, military and civil high officials from various countries.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan inaugurated the conference. Director of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), representatives of member states of the commission, diplomats and senior officials from different international organizations attended the opening ceremony.
The conference is being chaired by Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Operations) of the Bangladesh Navy, Chairman of the National Hydrographic Committee and Chairman of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission, Rear Admiral Mohammad Musa.
In his opening speech, Admiral M Nazmul Hassan said that, like other maritime nations of the world, establishing a separate “National Hydrographer” authority in Bangladesh has become a demand of time. Such an authority would ensure coordination, efficiency and accountability in the country’s overall hydrographic activities.
He said ensuring safe sea routes would make commercial shipping more dynamic and strengthen maritime security. It would also have a positive impact on the blue economy, marine resource management, fisheries conservation and coastal area development.
Participating countries presented the progress, achievements and future plans of their respective hydrographic activities during the conference. Discussions were also held on enhancing regional coordination, technical cooperation, information exchange and training support in the North Indian Ocean region.
The North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission, established in 2002, is one of the 15 regional commissions under the International Hydrographic Organization. Its activities cover the North Indian Ocean region stretching from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
Member states participating in the conference include Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Representatives from Australia, France, Oman, Mauritius, Seychelles, the United Kingdom and the United States are attending as associate members.
Observers from Russia, Malaysia and Sudan, along with high-level representatives from various international organizations and hydrography-related commercial institutions, are also participating in the conference.
It is noteworthy that Bangladesh is serving as the Chair of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission for the 2025–2027 term. Concerned officials believe this responsibility will further strengthen Bangladesh’s leadership and capability in the international maritime arena.
