US Ambassador Dan W Mozena and Home Minister Muhiuddin Khan Alamgir view one of the six marine patrol boats, capable of reaching speeds of up to 74 kilometres per hour, the US government provided as a gift to Bangladesh Coast Guard at its base in Anwara upazila of Chittagong yesterday. Photo: Star

The US government yesterday handed over six metal shark boats to Bangladesh Coast Guard to enhance its capability in safeguarding the country's coast and maritime area.
The American government gifted the vessels, two of which arrived at Chittagong Port a couple of months ago and the rest a few days ago, as a symbol of friendship. The newly-built marine patrol boats can sail as fast as 40 nautical miles or 74km an hour.
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Dan Mozena, who handed over the vessels to Home Minister Muhiuddin Khan Alamgir at Coast Guard's base in Anwara upazila of Chittagong, said the boats would help the marine security force protect the country's 580-kilometre shoreline.
The envoy also lauded the Coast Guard for successfully fighting drug smuggling, human trafficking, and abductions of fishermen in the maritime area.
Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Kazi Sarwar Hossain and Awami League lawmaker Saifuzzaman Chowdhury Javed, among others, were present on the occasion.