CA calls to resist 'those opposing port development'

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the interim government, stated that involving foreigners in managing the Chattogram port does not pose a security threat. He urged the public to oppose those resisting the delegation of port management to foreign experts.

He urged the public to stay alert against false propaganda and opposition about the port. “Stay away from baseless opposition and rumors. Support the government’s development efforts and resist those spreading false information,” he said.

In his speech to the nation on Friday evening (June 6), on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, the Chief Adviser said, “The companies we are signing agreements with are experienced in port management worldwide. They operate ports in Europe, Canada, Australia, China, South Korea, India, Pakistan, Turkey, the Middle East, and Africa. None of these countries have faced threats to their sovereignty or security because of this.”

He explained that the current state of Chattogram port, the economic heart of the country, is very weak. To improve its efficiency and modernization, international-level expertise is needed.

“We are taking help from experts to run this port effectively. If we can learn quickly from them, in the future Bangladeshis will lead ports worldwide,” said Dr. Yunus.

He expressed optimism, saying, “I guarantee that if we learn port management by 2031, then by 2036 Bangladeshis will be in charge of many international ports managed by these companies.”

He added, “If you visit any port, you will see Bangladeshis working there—especially young people from Chattogram, Noakhali, Sylhet, and Barishal. This will create millions of jobs.”

Recalling the past, the Chief Adviser said, “There was a time when sailors on any ship were from Chattogram or Sylhet in Bangladesh. If we can master port management now, that scene will return in the future.”

Dr. Yunus also said that modernizing the Chattogram port will have a positive impact not only on Bangladesh’s economy but also on neighboring Nepal and Bhutan.

He said, “New ports and industrial zones will be developed along the coastal areas from Kumira to Teknaf. These will make the entire coastal region a major economic center in South Asia. Along with this, a modern marine-based fishing industry will grow, opening a new economic world for Bangladesh.”