Maldivian High Commissioner Shiruneen Rasheed has stated that direct shipping between Bangladesh and the Maldives may commence soon. He also mentioned that initiatives in this regard will be taken.  

He made these remarks during a meeting with Brigadier General (Retd.) M. Sakhawat Hossain, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping and Labor and Employment, on Wednesday morning.  

The High Commissioner emphasized that initiating direct shipping between the two countries would enhance trade and people-to-people connectivity. He noted that Maldivian entrepreneurs are also highly positive about this initiative.  

He further mentioned the potential for introducing cruise services alongside passenger, container, and goods transport through maritime routes. Such steps, he added, could unlock new opportunities in the tourism sectors of both countries.  

Advisor Brigadier General (Retd.) M. Sakhawat Hossain highlighted that the Maldives could import eco-friendly jute and jute products from Bangladesh. He also expressed optimism that direct shipping between the two nations would expand bilateral trade.  

Additionally, he invited the Maldives to send cadets to Bangladesh’s marine academies, where international-standard marine training is provided.  

The High Commissioner welcomed the advisor’s proposal and expressed the Maldivian government’s interest in collaborating with Bangladesh on educational and training exchange programs. He also noted that Maldivian businesses have shown interest in utilizing transshipment facilities in Bangladesh and suggested that experts from both countries could discuss this further.