, Jan. 6 -- Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday stressed the need for coordinated joint research with Japan, Indonesia and the Maldives to explore marine resources, mentioning that Bangladesh has a maritime area almost equal to its landmass.

"The problems need to be identified. Research must be coordinated with those who have expertise in this area. Through such efforts, new horizons of the economy will open," he said.

Prof Yunus pointed out that although Bangladesh's water area is comparable to its land area, the country has failed to utilise its marine resources effectively.

"We have not even been able to determine the volume of resources and their potential. These resources must be properly utilised, which will require exte...