DHAKA, June 20 (V7N) – Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today stressed the indispensable need for accurate hydrographic data for the development of any nation, particularly highlighting its importance for Bangladesh. In a message marking World Hydrography Day 2025, to be observed tomorrow, he underscored the strategic significance of the Bay of Bengal for the country's economy, security, and environmental balance.
"The Bay of Bengal is very important for Bangladesh’s national economy, security and environmental balance. Not only Bangladesh, but also neighbouring countries are largely dependent on the Bay of Bengal for their economic prosperity. There is no alternative to accurate hydrographic information for development of the national economy,” Professor Yunus stated.
The Chief Adviser noted that the interim government is working towards transforming Bangladesh into a productive and regional economic hub. To achieve this ambitious goal, he asserted, "there is no alternative to detailed, updated and accurate hydrographic information to utilize marine resources effectively.”
Professor Yunus lauded the Hydrographic Department of the Bangladesh Navy for its tireless efforts in conducting hydrographic surveys, preparing charts, ensuring the safety of all local and foreign ships, and exchanging information and data in accordance with international standards. He emphasized that the activities of the Hydrographic Department are crucial, particularly in the context of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which governs the determination of a country's oceanic shelf and the development of the "blue economy" – the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth.
The Chief Adviser expressed his hope that, beyond its vital role in military and naval security, the Hydrographic Department would play an increasingly active part in the development of seaports, conservation of fishery resources, oil and gas exploration, and disaster management in Bangladesh's coastal areas. To further strengthen the country's economic foundation, he stressed that an effective and sustainable maritime policy must be developed through accurate seabed mapping.
Professor Yunus urged the nation's hydrographic professionals to work with even greater professionalism, efficiency, and dedication to develop a comprehensive hydrographic database for Bangladesh's entire maritime boundary.
Expressing his pleasure at Bangladesh joining the global community in observing World Hydrography Day 2025, Chief Adviser Yunus extended his warmest greetings to all those involved in organizing the day's events and wished success for the programs.
World Hydrography Day 2025 will be observed in Bangladesh tomorrow, June 21, under the global theme: "Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action." This theme highlights how detailed and accurate mapping of the ocean floor supports safe navigation, ocean governance, climate monitoring, and the protection of marine biodiversity, all critical for sustainable ocean use.
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