Bangladesh monitoring situation of sailors stranded in UAE port amid conflict

The government is closely monitoring the situation of the crew of a Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) vessel stranded in the United Arab Emirates amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has said.

In a video message, the minister expressed sympathy for the 31 sailors aboard “MV Banglar Joyjatra”, which is currently at the Port of Jebel Ali with a steel cargo from Qatar.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Shipping on Monday said the vessel has been unable to move due to the prevailing war situation in the region.

The minister said the crew were demonstrating “courage, patience and professionalism” despite the uncertainty.

“The sailors aboard the vessel at Jebel Ali port are upholding their duties with bravery and composure in a conflict-ridden situation. It is a matter of pride for the nation,” he said.

He described their role in contributing to the national economy as a “noble responsibility” and said their firm stance in difficult circumstances was highly valued by the government.

According to the ministry, authorities have contacted the families of all 31 crew members. “The government stands beside them at this difficult time,” the minister said.

He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman was personally monitoring the matter and, through the foreign ministry, keeping informed about developments and providing necessary guidance.

The BSC is maintaining regular communication with the vessel through virtual meetings, the statement said. A special control cell has been set up at BSC’s headquarters in Chattogram to coordinate support for the crew and their families.

Additional supplies have been arranged to ensure quality food and other essential items on board in a bid to keep up morale, it added.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Dubai has also been informed and is maintaining round-the-clock contact, while local agents and expatriate Bangladeshi businesspeople have been kept ready to assist if needed.

In his message, the minister urged the sailors to remain steadfast, assuring them that the government and BSC would continue to stand by them.

He expressed hope that the crisis would be overcome through collective efforts.