Proper use of sea resources to boost food security

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali has put emphasis on sustainable use of sea resources for prosperity and food security, report agencies.
"Future economic prosperity and food security are inextricably linked to sustainable use of sea resources," he said.
The foreign minister made the remarks while delivering the country statement at the ministerial session of the 1st Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Ministerial Blue Economy Conference at Port Louise, Mauritius on Thursday.
He said the government of Bangladesh, under the farsighted leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has already organised an international workshop on Blue Economy in Dhaka in September 2014 as well as had taken a myriad of Blue Economy initiatives at national level to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and employment opportunities in Bangladesh's maritime economic activities.
Mr Ali hoped that the first IORA Ministerial Blue Economy Conference will create an ideal platform for exchanging knowledge and data, information and technological know-how on fisheries and aqua culture, shipping and maritime transportation, renewable ocean energy and seabed resources.
Such conferences will help IORA countries in building more stable, secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Rim region fostering maritime cooperation and closer ties, ensuring progress and sustainable development of the people among the Indian Ocean Rim countries, he added.
Earlier, he attended the ministerial retreat and a session to finalise the Blue Economy declaration by all member states.
The Foreign Minister held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Mauritius Sir Aneerood Jugnauth at the latter's office.
The Mauritian premier conveyed his best regards to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and its people. They discussed matters of bilateral importance.
The Mauritian prime minister showed interest to boost more trade relations and asked for assistance in shipbuilding sector.
He expressed satisfaction at the performance of Bangladeshi expatriate workers in Mauritius.
In reply, the Foreign Minister informed about the quality of pharmaceuticals in Bangladesh that Mauritius may consider importing.
He also offered students from Mauritius to get admission in different academic institutions in Bangladesh.
They agreed to further the bilateral relations by concluding some bilateral instruments on investment promotion and protection, tourism cooperation and cultural exchange.