
Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies (CBoBS) at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ankara University National Center for the Sea and Maritime Law (DEHUKAM) in Turkey. The agreement marks a significant step toward international collaboration in maritime law, ocean governance and sustainable blue economy research.
Virtual ceremony connected Dhaka and Ankara, with Prof. M. Tamim, Vice Chancellor of IUB and Dr. Mustafa Başkara, CEO of DEHUKAM, signing the MoU on behalf of their respective institutions.
Key Areas of Collaboration
MoU outlines several priority areas, including:
- Joint research projects on maritime challenges in the Bay of Bengal and beyond.
- Faculty and student exchanges to strengthen academic knowledge-sharing.
- Training programs and technical cooperation in ocean governance and marine spatial planning.
- Policy development initiatives to support sustainable maritime law and governance frameworks.
Leaders’ Remarks
Prof. Tamim described the MoU as “a step toward active collaboration in sustainable ocean governance and maritime law,” emphasizing the need for measurable outcomes beyond formal agreements.
Dr. Mustafa Başkara highlighted DEHUKAM’s expertise in maritime law, policy and marine spatial planning – backed by a team of 24 senior researchers and welcomed the partnership as a platform for impactful knowledge exchange.
Ambassador Tariq Karim, Advisor to CBoBS, pointed to the deep-rooted historical ties between Bangladesh and Turkey. He emphasized that both nations, as “bridge nations,” share a responsibility to uphold maritime peace, trade and the rule of law – making the MoU a meaningful step toward effective partnerships.
About the Institutions
- CBoBS at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB): A leading research hub focused on the Bay of Bengal, blue economy and maritime governance in South Asia.
- DEHUKAM at Ankara University, Turkey: A premier center specializing in sea and maritime law, marine policy and sustainable ocean resource management.