Gofran Biswas Palash & Sowmetrow Sumon, Kalapara (Patuakhali)

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan said, the Blue Economy has emerged as a strategically important priority for national development.

With nearly 118,000 square kilometers of maritime territory in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh now has a vast field of opportunities before it.

This promising sector offers abundant fisheries resources, renewable energy sources, and extensive use of international trade routes, all of which play a significant role in the country's GDP growth.

He said, "The Navy and Coast Guard are working relentlessly to ensure maritime security in order to transform the Blue Economy into practical national development."

He made these remarks while addressing the closing ceremony parade of the boot camp training program for 441 newly- recruited sailors at BNS Sher-e-Bangla Parade Ground at around 10:15 a.m. on Thursday.

The Navy Chief further stated that multifaceted initiatives have been undertaken to modernize the Navy with the aim of protecting marine resources and strengthening maritime boundary security.

A significant number of warships, helicopters, modern military equipment, and advanced technologies have been incorporated into the naval fleet.

In addition, with the inclusion of two submarines named Nabajatra and Joyjatra, the Bangladesh Navy has now transformed into a three-dimensional force.

He also said that activities for enhancing the capabilities of the three-dimensional Navy through Continued to page 4 Navy, Coast Guard the addition of new naval bases, warships, modern technolo- gies, and military equipment are ongoing. Every member of the Navy remains fully prepared to serve the nation and make any necessary sacrifice when required.

At the beginning of the ceremony, the Navy Chief inspected the parade and received the salute. During the event, the newly recruited sailors touched the national flag and pledged to dedicate their lives to serving the country.