Djibouti's non-resident ambassador to Bangladesh, Issei Abdillahi Assoueh, met with Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain, at his ministry today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, July 30, 2025 (BSS) - Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping Brigadier General (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain today sought the support of other IMO member states, including Djibouti, for Bangladesh as the country is contesting as a Category-C member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026-27 term.

He made the call when Djibouti's non-resident ambassador to Bangladesh, Issei Abdillahi Assoueh, met him at his ministry, said a press release.
Sakhawat said Bangladesh is among the maritime nations of the world, with three operational seaports and a deep seaport currently under construction at Matarbari.

He said fifty-four inland river ports are making an important contribution to the country's shipping sector. "Ships manufactured in Bangladesh are being exported abroad. Bangladesh has a strong role in various important issues in the international maritime sector. In this context, Bangladesh has announced its candidacy for membership (Category-C) in the upcoming IMO Council elections to advance the country's maritime sector and also contribute to the global level."

At this time, Sakhawat, also Labour and Employment Adviser, sought the support of other countries, including Djibouti, in this election.

The Non-Resident Ambassador of Djibouti welcomed the proposal of the Adviser saying that Djibouti is always by Bangladesh's side.

He assured that he will provide all kinds of support for Bangladesh in the upcoming IMO elections.

Sakhawat mentioned that international standard training is being provided in Bangladesh's marine academies and invited the Djiboutian government to send their talented and skilled students and sailors to Bangladesh's academies for training.

He briefed the Ambassador on various aspects of the potential shipbuilding industry in Bangladesh. He informed the Ambassador that world-class ships are being built in Bangladesh's shipyards.

The Ambassador expressed interest in importing ships from Bangladesh to Djibouti.

During the discussion, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly countries.

Shipping Secretary Mohammad Yusuf and senior officials of the Shipping Ministry and Foreign Ministry were present at the meeting.