In a move to deepen ties with Bangladesh’s burgeoning shipbuilding industry, Algeria is setting its sights on importing high-quality seagoing ships and watercraft crafted in Bangladesh.
This exciting prospect emerged during a high-level meeting on May 19, 2025, when Algerian Ambassador to Dhaka, Abdelohab Saidani, paid a courtesy call on Shipping Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain at the ministry.
The discussions not only highlighted Bangladesh’s growing maritime expertise but also laid the groundwork for a transformative partnership that could reshape trade and cooperation between the two nations.
Ambassador Saidani was unequivocal in his enthusiasm: “Bangladesh has made remarkable strides in its shipping industry, and Algeria is eager to import your world-class seagoing ships and watercraft.” He underscored Algeria’s desire to tap into Bangladesh’s skilled maritime workforce and proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize cooperation. The MoU aims to unlock new avenues for collaboration, from ship procurement to joint ventures in maritime development.
Bangladesh’s shipbuilding sector, a rising star on the global stage, has earned accolades for producing vessels that meet international standards.
The government-run Khulna Shipyard, in particular, has garnered a stellar reputation, with its ships already sailing to markets abroad.
Private shipyards, too, are making waves, bolstered by marine academies that churn out highly trained professionals.
“Our shipyards, both public and private, are building vessels that compete globally,” Dr. Hossain told the ambassador, inviting him to tour key facilities like Chittagong and Mongla ports, as well as shipyards and marine academies.
Sakhawat Hossain pitched Bangladesh as a prime destination for Algerian investment in the maritime sector, highlighting the industry’s rapid growth and untapped potential. He requested to launch flights between Dhaka and Algiers to facilitate trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections. The ambassador responded positively, noting that Algeria is already exploring the feasibility of direct air links.
In a strategic ask, Dr. Hossain sought Algeria’s backing for Bangladesh’s candidacy in the Category-C election of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–27 term, set for December 2025 in London. Ambassador Saidani reaffirmed Algeria’s “continued support and cooperation,” signaling a strong diplomatic alignment.
For Algeria, partnering with Bangladesh offers access to cost-competitive, high-quality ships and a skilled maritime workforce, bolstering its own maritime infrastructure. For Bangladesh, the partnership could open new export markets, attract foreign investment, and elevate its global standing as a shipbuilding hub. The proposed MoU, expected to be finalized soon, will likely cover ship exports, manpower training, and potential joint ventures, creating a win-win scenario.
The ambassador’s invitation for Dr. Hossain to visit Algeria underscores the mutual enthusiasm. “We want a fruitful relationship,” Saidani said, emphasizing Algeria’s commitment to making this partnership a reality. The meeting, attended by Director General BM Jamal Hossain of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and senior Shipping Ministry officials, marked a pivotal step toward cementing ties.