Kolkata, April 10 (IANS): A delegation of Bangladesh Coast Guard is on a two-day visit to Kolkata as part of the ongoing cooperation between the coast guards of the two neighbours, aimed at exploring avenues for common approach to maritime issues in the region.

The delegation, led by Director General of Bangladesh Coast Guard Rear Admiral Mohammad Makbul Hossain, on Thursday visited the Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (North East) in Kolkata.

"The Bangladeshi delegation, which also has officials from the Bangladesh Ministry of Home Affairs, interacted with Inspector General V.S.R. Murthy, Commander - Coast Guard Region," an Indian Coast Guard officer said here on Friday.

"The delegation was briefed about the initiatives of the Indian Coast Guard in ensuring safety of fishermen in distress at sea, protection of marine environment including conservation of Olive Ridley sea turtles and security of coastal areas," the officer said.

"Both sides also exchanged views on areas of cooperation and synergy of efforts towards safe and secure seas in the region," added the officer.

The delegation also visited Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) where they were briefed about the shipbuilding capabilities and facilities by GRSE chairman and managing director Rear Admiral A.K. Verma (Retd).