MOU Signed between the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) and Chittagong Port Authority under the BIMSTEC Framework
The MOU aims to create a port-to-port cooperation between the PAT and Chittagong Port Authority by means of port-related information exchange and maritime transport promotion in order to facilitate the launch of new shipping route between Ranong Port and Chittagong Port.
Lt. JG. Dr. Chamnan Chairith, R.T.N., PAT Deputy Director General (Asset Management and Business Development) and Mr. Md. Zafar Alam, Member (Admin & Planning) of Chittagong Port Authority have signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the cooperation between the PAT’s Ranong Port and Chittagong Port, Bangladesh. The virtual signing ceremony was witnessed by H.E. Mr. Mohammed Abdul Hye, the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Thailand, H.E. Mrs. Makawadee Sumitmor, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Bangladesh, and the guests of honor from both parties.
The MOU aims to create a port-to-port cooperation between the PAT and Chittagong Port Authority by means of port-related information exchange and maritime transport promotion in order to facilitate the launch of new shipping route between Ranong Port and Chittagong Port. This move was pushed and supported by the Bangladesh Container Ship Owner’s Association (BCSOA) which expects that the coastal shipping route will enhance the maritime connectivity between the two countries with lower shipping time and cost, offering an alternative services to the shipping liners. Through this cooperative agreement, trade and business investment between Thailand and Bangladesh will be strengthened and even more robust under the BIMSTEC Framework.
The signing of this MOU will also mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Bangladesh on October 5, 2022. Furthermore, both sides are also working closely to explore the possibility to negotiate a free trade agreement in order to facilitate trade and boost its volume.
