Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid today proposed initiation of joint studies with India to explore the blue economy as Indian Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba called on him as part of his six-day visit to the neighbouring country to boost defence ties.
"There is enormous scope of exploring the blue economy...A bilateral research is essential since Bangladesh and India share common maritime boundary," a Bangabhaban (Presidential Palace) spokesman quoted President Hamid as telling Admiral Lanba during the meeting.
President Hamid appreciated Indian Navy chief's visit and said exchange of such visits would help play an effective role in strengthening bilateral relations, according to his Press Secretary Joynal Abedin.
Admiral Lanba said the two navies could benefit them through exchanging mutual experiences and trainings.
The first-ever Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) by the Bangladesh and Indian navies would be conducted in Chittagong on June 27. It would be jointly inaugurated by chiefs of navies of the two countries.
The aim of the joint patrol is to reduce transnational or non-traditional maritime threats that affect the maritime security.
Admiral Lanba said such cooperation would help ensure economic development in both the countries.
Indian High Commissioner Harsh Vardhan Shringla, presidential palace officials and senior navy officers were present during the meeting.
Earlier, Admiral Lanba met his Bangladesh counterpart Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed and Air Chief Air Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat.
The Indian Navy chief, who arrived here yesterday, would also address student officers at the National Defence College, Mirpur. He will also visit various institutions and hold talks with regional commanders of the Bangladesh Navy.
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