Sarbananda Sonowal Proposes BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact
The second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave was inaugurated today by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. This two-day event aims to enhance regional maritime connectivity and cooperation among the seven member nations of BIMSTEC: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The conclave brings together policymakers, maritime experts, and stakeholders to discuss sustainable development and the potential of the Blue Economy in the Bay of Bengal region.
Strengthening Maritime Cooperation
The BIMSTEC Ports Conclave serves as a vital platform for fostering collaboration among member nations. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the importance of this event in unlocking the Blue Economy’s potential. He stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s “Neighbourhood First” policy, India views BIMSTEC nations as essential partners in regional prosperity. The minister expressed a desire for enhanced cooperation in areas such as port-led industrialization, digital integration, and skill development. These efforts aim to boost cruise tourism and foster coastal economic zones, ultimately creating a seamless network of ports that can drive economic growth in the region.
Building on the success of the inaugural conclave, this year’s event focuses on operationalizing the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC). The discussions aim to deepen integration in maritime trade, logistics, and skill development while promoting sustainable and resilient growth. India has already ratified the agreement, and the minister urged other member nations to expedite its ratification and implementation.
Establishment of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre
During the conclave, Sarbananda Sonowal announced the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre at the Maritime Training Institute in Powai, Mumbai. This center will play a crucial role in operationalizing the AMTC and harmonizing maritime policies across member nations. The minister highlighted that the center would facilitate digital and green transformations while enhancing the skills and capacities of the maritime workforce. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the center aims to reduce trade costs and improve connectivity, positioning the Bay of Bengal as a vibrant hub for regional and global trade.
The conclave featured discussions on various topics, including boosting private sector investment and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to address outdated infrastructure and limited coordination. Participants explored opportunities arising from shifting global supply chains, with a focus on attracting manufacturing hubs in sectors such as shipbuilding, logistics, and renewable energy. The sessions underscored the need for coordinated strategies and policy reforms to unlock the Bay of Bengal’s potential as a resilient trade and industry hub.
Focus on Sustainable Development and Future Opportunities
The conclave’s sessions also addressed the operationalization of the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement, harmonizing customs and logistics to enhance intra-regional trade. Discussions included unlocking the potential of cruise tourism through PPPs and joint branding initiatives. Participants proposed the creation of a BIMSTEC Ports Coordination Centre and a regional Port Community System to improve connectivity and streamline operations.
Skill development emerged as a critical theme, with calls for cross-border training and collaboration between industry and academia. The need for green shipping innovations was also emphasized, ensuring that the maritime workforce is prepared for future challenges. Collectively, these discussions aim to chart a strategic roadmap for transforming the Bay of Bengal into a resilient hub for trade, tourism, and logistics.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also highlighted the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which connects India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He described it as a transformative initiative that reduces transit time and trade costs while unlocking new economic opportunities. The project aligns with India’s Act East Policy and serves as a model for seamless regional connectivity across BIMSTEC, fostering inclusive growth and deeper integration with neighboring countries.
At the inaugural session, Sonowal was joined by Union Minister of State for MoPSW, Shantanu Thakur, and other dignitaries, including the Secretary General of BIMSTEC and representatives from all member nations. The conclave marks a significant step towards enhancing maritime cooperation and sustainable development in the Bay of Bengal region.
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