C T Online Desk: May 11, 2026- The three-day 25th International Conference of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission (NIOHC) began in Chattogram today with emphasis on strengthening regional hydrographic cooperation, maritime security and blue economy activities.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hasan inaugurated the conference as the chief guest, said a release of the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate this noon.
Specking on the occasion, he underscored the need for establishing a “National Hydrographer” as an independent national hydrographic authority to coordinate and regulate Bangladesh’s hydrographic activities.
The Navy Chief said such an initiative would help ensure safe navigation of commercial and seagoing vessels, strengthen maritime security and support blue economy and coastal management activities, mentioned the release.
Representatives from member and cooperating states, diplomats and senior military and civilian officials joined the conference.
Among the 15 regional commissions under the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), the ‘North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission’, established in 2002, is one of them, ISPR said.
Its activities are conducted across the North Indian Ocean region, from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
In this conference, member states of the commission including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Thailand, as well as cooperating states Australia, France, Oman, Mauritius, Seychelles, the United Kingdom and the United States, are participating.
Additionally, as observer countries, Russia, Malaysia and Sudan, along with various international organizations and high-level representatives of hydrography-related commercial institutions, are also participating.
During the conference, participating countries presented their hydrographic activities, achievements and future plans while discussions were held on regional coordination, technical cooperation and training assistance in the hydrographic sector. Bangladesh is currently serving as the chair of the NIOHC for the 2025-2027 term.
