Bay of Bengal has shaped Bangladesh's destiny for generations: Tarique

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for deeper regional cooperation to unlock the economic potential of the Bay of Bengal, saying Bangladesh's strategic location could connect its ports, waterways and coastal economy with the wider world.

"The Bay of Bengal has been shaping our destiny for generations," he said at the opening of the three-day Bay of Bengal Conversation in Dhaka on Saturday.

"Because of Bangladesh's geographical and strategic location, our seaports, waterways and coastal economy can connect with the entire world. There is immense potential in shipping, fisheries, tourism, energy and regional supply chains. As a region, we must transform our shared geography into shared prosperity. And for that, we need deeper bilateral and multilateral engagement."

Tarique noted that countries in the Bay of Bengal region could expand cooperation across trade, energy, education, technology, climate and maritime affairs.

"We can open up new markets and create more opportunities for our young people," he said.

"Based on equality, fairness and justice, we can build stronger cooperative relationships. Geography has brought us together. We firmly believe that closer people-to-people ties will take us much further."

The prime minister also said Bangladesh would continue to engage with regional and global partners while protecting its national interests and sovereignty.

"Bangladesh believes in dialogue, partnership and mutual respect. We will protect our national interests and sovereignty.

"At the same time, we will continue to work positively with all our regional and global partners. Because peace and harmony are the foundations of shared prosperity and development."

Tarique said Bangladesh was ready to play its part in building a Bay of Bengal region where countries could prosper together.

"Let the Bay of Bengal region become a place where every nation grows together, shares the benefits equitably and citizens extend the hand of meaningful cooperation. Bangladesh is fully prepared to play its rightful role in this regard."

The Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) organised the event at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon hotel.

Former Serbian president Boris Tadic and former Mali prime minister Moussa Mara were among the diplomats, policymakers, researchers and experts from different countries attending the event.