Govt to pursue diplomatic efforts over UAE visa issues for seafarers: Rabiul
The government has decided to intensify diplomatic efforts to resolve visa, transit and crew change-related problems faced by Bangladeshi seafarers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other countries, as the restrictions continue to affect overseas employment and foreign currency earnings.
Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam issued the directive while chairing the first meeting of the National Maritime Council at the Ministry of Shipping on Tuesday.
"The expansion of employment opportunities for Bangladeshi seafarers in the international shipping industry and ensuring their smooth movement are closely linked to the national interest," Rabiul said.
He instructed the authorities concerned to strengthen inter-ministerial coordination and enhance diplomatic engagement with the relevant countries. If necessary, a dedicated committee will be formed to address the issues.
State Minister for Shipping and Bridges Md Rajib Ahsan, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries, divisions and agencies, along with stakeholders from the maritime sector, attended the meeting.
According to a ministry release, discussions focused largely on the difficulties Bangladeshi seafarers face in obtaining UAE transit visas, crew change visas, shore passes and entry clearances.
Participants noted that although Bangladesh is one of the world's leading suppliers of seafarers, these restrictions have recently disrupted recruitment, crew relief and employment on international vessels, reducing overseas job opportunities and affecting the country's foreign exchange earnings.
The meeting emphasised the need to step up diplomatic engagement with the UAE and other relevant countries through the Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Bangladesh Consulate General in Dubai to ensure the smooth movement of Bangladeshi seafarers.
The National Maritime Council also reviewed Bangladesh's preparations for the 2028 IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), implementation of the Hong Kong Convention, development of a roadmap for Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDF), and measures to implement the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Net-Zero Framework.
The meeting also stressed the importance of formulating a comprehensive National Maritime Policy to strengthen maritime security, promote the blue economy, modernise port management, expand employment opportunities for seafarers and ensure the sustainable development of Bangladesh's maritime sector.