Medieval Bengal’s links to the Straits world, a narrow stretch of water connecting to Southeast Asia and beyond, are overlooked. This world saw not only ocean-going vessels, but also coastal and localised traffic which, like riverine transport, has gone largely unrecorded.

Ocean ecosystems provide the fundamental natural resources that underpin the ocean-based economy.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged the neighbouring countries to come forward to curb various maritime crimes as it was not possible for a country to do so.