Bangladesh Coast Guard and Department of Shipping sign memorandum of understanding to bolster maritime security and environmental protection

The Bangladesh Coast Guard and the Department of Shipping have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster mutual cooperation in maritime security, environmental protection, and search and rescue operations.

The agreement was signed on Tuesday morning at the Coast Guard headquarters by Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Mohammad Ziaul Hoque and Department of Shipping Director General Commodore Mohammad Shafiqul Bari. The Coast Guard confirmed the development through an official press statement following the signing ceremony.

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Under the framework of this MoU, the two organizations aim to synchronize their operational responsibilities, facilitate the exchange of technical information, and ensure the implementation of mandatory regulations set by the International Maritime Organization.

The agreement further outlines a strategy for integrated actions regarding maritime safety and the prevention of ship-sourced pollution. The partnership will streamline coordination for search and rescue missions, joint meetings, training programs, capacity-building initiatives, and emergency drills. Additionally, it aims to enhance the efficacy of record-keeping and evidence preservation required for international audits and verification processes.

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The Department of Shipping, which operates under the Ministry of Shipping, serves as the maritime safety administration responsible for vessel security and the prevention of marine pollution. The Bangladesh Coast Guard, an agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is tasked with law enforcement and the maintenance of maritime order within the nation’s territorial waters.

While the two agencies report to different ministries with distinct operational mandates, officials noted that their functions are deeply interconnected regarding maritime safety, environmental safeguards, and crisis management. This partnership is designed to establish a structured and efficient coordination framework between the two entities.

Beyond legislative compliance, the MoU emphasizes the importance of policy implementation, information sharing, and joint emergency response capabilities. The signatories have also committed to prioritizing ongoing training, capacity building, regular performance reviews, and the continuous updating of operational protocols to ensure effective collaboration in the maritime domain.

Topics: Bangladesh
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