India and Norway Hold Bilateral Talks on Green Maritime Technologies
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, engaged in significant bilateral discussions with Norwegian officials during the Nor-Shipping event in Oslo. The meetings aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation between India and Norway, focusing on green maritime technologies and sustainable practices. Sonowal met with Norway’s Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Marianne Sivertsen, to explore collaborative opportunities in various maritime sectors.
Advancing Green Maritime Technologies
During his meeting with Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård, Shri Sonowal emphasized India’s commitment to modernizing its maritime sector with a focus on sustainability. He highlighted ongoing initiatives in green shipping and digital transformation, aiming to enhance the application of green maritime technologies. Both ministers discussed the potential for cooperation in ferry system electrification, drawing on Norway’s successful experiences in this area. Sonowal stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership, India is advancing its port infrastructure and integrating green energy solutions, positioning its ports as catalysts for clean energy transitions.
The discussions also touched on India’s “Maritime India Vision 2030” and “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” which aim to transform ports into global investment hubs. The Union Minister noted that India’s ports are evolving beyond mere gateways for trade, becoming integral to the transition towards clean energy, including offshore wind and green hydrogen initiatives.
Collaborative Efforts in Sustainable Practices
Shri Sonowal and Minister Sivertsen explored various collaborative opportunities, including ship recycling, sustainable fisheries, and ocean renewable energy. They acknowledged the longstanding partnership between India and Norway, which is built on shared values and a commitment to sustainable development. The discussions included leveraging Norway’s expertise in AI-driven port management and India’s initiatives in smart logistics and clean coastal shipping.
The two sides agreed to focus on joint efforts in ship recycling, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices in the sector. The Alang Ship Recycling Yard in Gujarat was identified as a potential site for implementing green technologies and improving environmental standards. Sonowal expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that both countries could work together to manufacture electric ferries and vessels, catering to the growing global demand for sustainable maritime solutions.
Strengthening the Blue Economy and Gender Diversity
The dialogue also highlighted the importance of gender diversity in the maritime sector. Shri Sonowal pointed out the increasing number of women seafarers and introduced the “Saagar Mein Samman” initiative, aimed at fostering a gender-equitable ecosystem in maritime industries. He called for Norway’s support in enhancing human capital through seafarer training, particularly in areas such as polar navigation and cybersecurity.
Both nations expressed a shared vision for the Blue Economy, focusing on sustainable ocean management and the responsible use of marine resources. Sonowal invited Norwegian firms to explore joint ventures in ocean renewable energy, sustainable aquaculture, and deep-sea exploration, aligning with India’s growing maritime ambitions and environmental goals.
Future Collaborations and Arctic Navigation
India proposed conducting a joint feasibility study to operationalize the Northern Sea Route (NSR) in collaboration with Norwegian agencies. This initiative aims to enhance Arctic navigation through research and development in ice-class vessel design and navigational technologies. The study will address the unique challenges posed by extreme weather conditions in Arctic waters, ensuring safe and sustainable shipping practices while minimizing environmental impacts.
Shri Sonowal concluded by reaffirming the commitment of both nations to build a sustainable and inclusive global maritime order. He expressed confidence that the ongoing discussions would lead to actionable initiatives, further strengthening the bilateral maritime cooperation between India and Norway.
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