City Reporter: The Chittagong Port Authority yesterday welcomed the sailors of the Bangladeshi flag ship MV Abdullah, which was freed from the pirates of Somalia. The reception was held at Jetty No. 1 of the port’s Newmooring Container Terminal (NCT). The Minister of Foreign Affairs joined online. Hasan Mahmud said today is a day of joy for the entire country and nation. Thanks be to God, all the sailors returned safely. This is our biggest find. However, so that no such incident happens in the future, everyone should be vigilant so that no Bangladeshi ship falls under the hands of pirates. There should be armed guards in places where there is danger. He urged the ship owners to keep in mind the issue of adequate safety while passing through dangerous areas.
Chittagong Port Authority Chairman, Real Admiral M. Sohail, presided over the event. City Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury welcomed the sailors in the ceremony conducted by Port Secretary Mohammad Omar Farooq. Shahriar Jahan Rahat, DMD of KSRM, and Mehrul Karim, CEO of SR Shipping, spoke at this time.
Hasan Mahmud said, I wanted to welcome our brave sailors from Chittagong today. But I could not come to Chittagong due to urgent government work in Dhaka. However, I am digitally connected to digital Bangladesh, welcoming and congratulating our sailors.
He said we were keeping the news every moment since MV Abdullah was taken hostage. Several international organizations, which are responsible for security there, were talking about the use of force. Maybe we could do that. But there was doubt as to whether all would have survived unscathed.
The foreign minister said the Malik authorities had infinite patience. They aimed to avoid the loss of people. Congratulations to all. Thanks to the sailors for their courage. We are very relieved to see you performing Eid prayers there. Everyone was worried. Everything went well; thanks for that. He wished the sailors health, success, and longevity in their careers.
In the event, City Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury said, Thank you because the children of our country have returned. Everyone was worried for two months. Due to the bravery, visionary decision, and skill of the government, the sailors returned safely. A flock of pigeons came back to life. I am excited, happy, and happy. I wish everyone health. He said the people of this city voted for me. Today, as a city father, it seems that my children have returned.
Rear Admiral M. Sohail, Chairman of Chittagong Port, said Somali pirates are the world’s most notorious pirates. They are very violent. They are terrible. Our sailors are fearless. Strong steps have been taken by the government. Under the guidance of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Ministry of External Affairs, Naval, and other agencies worked together. Today’s success is the result of the state’s teamwork.
