The 25th International Conference of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission (NIOHC), hosted by the Bangladesh Navy, officially commenced on Monday in Chattogram.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hasan inaugurated the three-day conference as the chief guest. The event was attended by the Director of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), delegates from member states of the NIOHC, diplomats, and senior military and civilian officials.
The conference is being chaired by Rear Admiral Mohammad Musa, who also serves as Chairman of the National Hydrographic Committee and the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission.
In his inaugural address, Admiral Nazmul Hasan emphasized the importance of establishing a “National Hydrographer” as an independent national hydrographic authority, similar to those functioning in other maritime nations. He noted that such an authority would coordinate and regulate Bangladesh’s hydrographic activities, strengthen maritime security, ensure safe navigation for commercial and other seagoing vessels, and support blue economy initiatives and coastal management.
During the conference, participating countries presented updates on their hydrographic activities, achievements, and future plans. Delegates also discussed regional cooperation, technical collaboration, and training support related to hydrographic operations across the North Indian Ocean region.
Established in 2002, the NIOHC is one of the 15 regional commissions under the IHO and oversees hydrographic activities spanning from the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
The conference has brought together member states including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Cooperating states such as Australia, France, Oman, Mauritius, Seychelles, United Kingdom and United States are also participating.
Observer countries including Russia, Malaysia and Sudan, alongside representatives from international organizations and hydrography-related commercial institutions, are attending the conference as well.
Bangladesh is currently serving as the Chair of the North Indian Ocean Hydrographic Commission for the 2025–2027 term.
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