Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, has announced that the nation’s relevant authorities will evaluate a proposal put forth by the Danish shipping and logistics giant, Maersk Group. The proposal pertains to the construction and operation of a novel container terminal at Laldia in Chattogram.
During a meeting at her office with Robert Maersk Uggla, the CEO of Maersk Group, and Danish Charges D’Affaires in Bangladesh, Andres B Karlsen, Prime Minister Hasina affirmed her government’s openness to considering the proposition. Highlighting the growing engagement between the two countries, PM noted that more than 50 Danish companies are currently active in Bangladesh.
Maersk Group’s interest in establishing and operating an APM terminal at Laldia was acknowledged by the premier, who conveyed her remarks through a media briefing held after the meeting. Sheikh Hasina also shared insights about the formulation of a logistic policy through a national committee to stimulate port development in the country.
With the Chattogram and Mongla ports already operational, and the forthcoming Payra Port’s imminent activation, Hasina highlighted the potential for India, Nepal, and Bhutan to utilize these ports for mutual benefits. Emphasizing the advantages, she pointed out the allure of the Payra port, which is expected to bring multiple opportunities.
Robert Maersk Uggla, the CEO of Maersk Group, acknowledged the immense potential within container shipping and logistic support in Bangladesh. He expressed enthusiasm for investing in port and logistic infrastructure, alluding to significant opportunities in these sectors. Notably, he underlined that renowned companies like H&M, M&S, and Walmart are keen on importing more Ready-Made Garment (RMG) products from Bangladesh.
Uggla also commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s vision to create a technologically advanced Bangladesh and foresees its manifestation at Chattogram seaport. He articulated the Group’s eagerness to engage in the development of ports and logistic support in Bangladesh, citing the supportive stance of the Danish government toward the nation’s logistic policy.
Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary, M Tofazzel Hossain Miah, and Chairman of Chattogram Port Authority, Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, were also present during the productive exchange of ideas. As Bangladesh’s leadership examines the proposal, the potential collaboration with Maersk Group marks a significant stride toward bolstering the nation’s maritime and logistic endeavors.
