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BangladeshNationalist Party-BNP
Message by Chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party - BNP and Prime Minister Mr. Tarique Rahman on the Occasion of World Hydrography Day 2026
In the global reality of the twenty-first century, the ocean is no longer merely a geographical boundary; rather, it is one of the principal foundations of economic growth, trade connectivity, energy security, environmental balance, and national strategic capability. In this context, the initiative to celebrate World Hydrography Day 2026 with due importance and professionalism is undoubtedly a positive step.
The theme designated by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) for this year, “Transforming How Ocean Data is Shared,” is both timely and highly relevant.
In today’s world, ensuring the modern, secure, accurate, and effective exchange of ocean-related information is not merely a reflection of technological advancement; it is also deeply connected to safeguarding national interests, achieving economic independence, strengthening maritime security, and enhancing strategic capabilities. Furthermore, the rapid and reliable exchange of information can contribute significantly to ensuring safe navigation, preventing accidents, protecting the environment, and improving the sustainable management of marine resources.
Bangladesh’s vast maritime area is not merely a geographical expanse; it is one of the key foundations of our economic strength, sovereignty, and future prosperity. This maritime domain contains enormous natural resources, rich biodiversity, and immense commercial potential. The hydrographic activities of the Bangladesh Navy play an indispensable role in ensuring safe navigation, producing accurate seabed charts, and supporting the planned development of coastal regions. Through these activities, it is possible to reduce navigational risks, improve port management, and accelerate the growth of the blue economy.
The current government remains firmly committed to protecting the country’s marine resources, ensuring maritime security, and advancing the blue economy. We are determined to maximize the utilization of maritime resources while safeguarding national interests. Effective measures are being undertaken to achieve these objectives through the modernization of hydrographic operations, the integration of advanced technologies, the digital transformation of information systems, and the expansion of international cooperation.
Digital hydrography, geospatial data management, and the use of automated information technologies are opening new horizons of opportunity in this sector. At the same time, it is essential to strengthen skilled human resource development, expand research and innovation activities, and enhance technology-driven institutional capacity. To develop a workforce proficient in hydrographic surveying, data analysis, and information management, it is imperative to strengthen training, education, and international cooperation, alongside coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors.
I firmly believe that the time has come to fully harness our maritime potential through coordinated, organized, and united efforts by all stakeholders, with national interests as the highest priority. The government is working toward that goal. Through these efforts, it will be possible to build a prosperous, self-reliant, and strong Bangladesh, and the blue economy can become one of the key drivers of the nation’s future prosperity.
I wish every success to all programs undertaken in observance of World Hydrography Day 2026.
