How is India Strengthening Maritime Ties During the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave?
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Synopsis
India's Second BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Vizag signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing maritime cooperation in the Bay of Bengal. This event brings together nations to explore vital connectivity and trade opportunities, ensuring a robust economic corridor. Discover how these collaborations will shape the future of regional trade and partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- The conclave emphasizes regional cooperation in maritime trade.
- Enhanced logistics and customs procedures are prioritized.
- Focus on sustainable practices in shipping and tourism.
- Strengthening ties between South Asia and Southeast Asia is crucial.
- Collaboration with industry and academia is essential for workforce development.
Visakhapatnam, July 16 (NationPress) On Wednesday, India highlighted that the Second BIMSTEC Ports Conclave, taking place in Vizag this week, exemplifies the mutual dedication to bolster cooperation and fully leverage the significant economic corridor.
During this two-day event, aimed at fortifying and advancing maritime collaboration in the Bay of Bengal region in alignment with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, discussions ensued among the member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) regarding enhancing maritime cooperation.
The conclave addressed various topics, including the harmonization of customs processes, improvement of logistical connections to elevate intra-regional trade, development of port-associated industrial zones, promotion of cruise tourism, digital integration, upskilling the maritime workforce, fostering industry-academia partnerships, and green shipping initiatives.
The theme for this conclave was 'Navigating the Future: Blue Economy, Innovation and Sustainable Partnerships'.
Inaugurated by the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the conclave featured delegations from BIMSTEC member states, comprising officials, maritime experts, port authorities, private sector representatives, and regional development partners.
The inaugural BIMSTEC Ports Conclave also took place in Visakhapatnam in 2019, where three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were established between Ranong Port (Port Authority of Thailand) and the Port Trusts of Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Kolkata.
The MoUs aimed to support BIMSTEC objectives and enhance connectivity between ports on Thailand’s West Coast and those on India's East Coast, significantly reducing sea travel time between India and Thailand from 10-15 days to merely seven days.
India places immense significance on BIMSTEC, which connects five nations from South Asia: Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Nepal, along with two countries from South East Asia, namely Myanmar and Thailand.
Point of View
I underscore the importance of the BIMSTEC initiative in promoting regional connectivity and economic growth. This conclave is a testament to our commitment to collaborative development in South Asia and beyond, and it is essential that we continue to foster these partnerships for collective prosperity.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave?
The BIMSTEC Ports Conclave is a platform for member countries to discuss and enhance maritime cooperation, focusing on trade, logistics, and sustainable development in the Bay of Bengal region.
Where was the Second BIMSTEC Ports Conclave held?
The Second BIMSTEC Ports Conclave was held in Visakhapatnam, India.
What are the key themes discussed at the conclave?
Key themes included customs harmonization, intra-regional trade enhancement, port-linked industrial zones, and green shipping initiatives.
Who inaugurated the conclave?
The conclave was inaugurated by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
What was achieved in the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave?
The first conclave resulted in three MoUs aimed at enhancing connectivity between ports in Thailand and India, significantly reducing travel time.
