Defence Adviser to the Prime Minister Brigadier General (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam on Monday said domestic capacity would be the main strength in enhancing maritime security, alongside strengthening the country’s defence capability and naval power.
He made the remarks after visiting the Bangladesh Navy-run Narayanganj Dockyard.
During the visit, the defence adviser was briefed in detail on the overall activities of the dockyard, including its shipbuilding and repair capabilities, modern technical facilities, infrastructural development, production activities, maintenance systems and ongoing development programmes carried out under the supervision of the Bangladesh Navy.
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He later toured key installations of the dockyard, including workshops, production areas, repair facilities and various ongoing development projects.
Speaking after the visit, he said the development of the domestic naval industry is crucial for ensuring national security, naval strength and protection of maritime interests.
“The Narayanganj Dockyard must be transformed into a modern, efficient and advanced naval industrial establishment by enhancing shipbuilding, repair and maintenance capabilities,” he said, adding that domestic capacity would be the country’s primary strength in strengthening maritime security.
He stressed the need to ensure quality, timeliness, technical efficiency and professionalism in all activities of the dockyard.
The adviser also instructed the authorities concerned to further enhance the institution’s capacity through the use of modern technology, development of skilled manpower through training and planned management.
“Maximum utilisation of domestic resources, skills and technology must be ensured to further strengthen national defence preparedness,” he said.
He noted that the Narayanganj Dockyard, operated under the supervision of the Bangladesh Navy, is not only a shipbuilding and repair facility but also a vital foundation for the country’s maritime capability, defence readiness and self-reliance.
“All projects, initiatives and development activities here must be advanced in alignment with national interests,” he added.
The defence adviser appreciated the professionalism, dedication and efficiency of the officials, engineers, technical staff and employees working at the dockyard, and called upon them to perform their duties with responsibility and patriotism.
He expressed hope that through collective efforts, discipline and strong commitment, the Narayanganj Dockyard would play an even greater role in enhancing the country’s naval and maritime capabilities in the future.
He also said the dockyard would further develop into a strong supporting institution in ensuring national security, economic progress and self-reliance in the defence sector.
He emphasised the need to accelerate ongoing development activities and to work in a coordinated manner in implementing future plans.
Senior officials of the Bangladesh Navy and Narayanganj Dockyard were present on the occasion.