India assumes Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation from B’desh

New Delhi: As historic and a moment of immense pride, India assumed Chairmanship of Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation (BoB-IG) on Saturday from Bangladesh at the Governing Council Meeting. The Indian delegation, led by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Government of India attended the event and assumed Chair during the event. Secretary, Department of Fisheries (GoI) highlighted that India is committed to upholding and building upon the achievements of the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation (BoBP-IGO) as the leadership transitions from Bangladesh to India. He assured that the Department of Fisheries (GoI) would diligently work towards elevating the success of BoBP-IGO to newer heights and will be forthcoming in providing definitive guidance for all future endeavours for development of fisheries across all member countries.

Further, he underscored the importance of regional collaboration, and the crucial role India and other countries are playing in advancing the interests of developing nations. As India remains optimistic about receiving continued support and collaboration from Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and other relevant organizations, Secretary, Department of Fisheries (GoI) urged all member nations to enhance and foster mutual support through exchange of knowledge, technology, experiences, data and best practices. The collaborations are expected to strengthen region’s blue economy, harmonize economic development along with protection of marine ecosystem and help in poverty alleviation.