India Explores Maritime Cooperation During Sonowal’s South Korea Visit
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, began a significant four-day trip to South Korea, aiming to showcase India’s maritime potential to the Korean industry. This visit is part of the ongoing efforts between India and South Korea to enhance shipbuilding collaborations, with an ambitious goal of positioning India among the top five shipbuilding nations by 2047.
Sonowal launched his visit in Busan, renowned as the center of Korea’s maritime sector, where he engaged with Indian professionals contributing to Korean shipbuilding. The gathering, which was welcomed by India’s Ambassador to South Korea, Gourangalal Das, included representatives from major companies like Samsung Heavy Industries and HD Hyundai.
During his address, Sonowal expressed pride in the achievements of Indian professionals within Korea’s advanced shipbuilding ecosystem. He urged attendees to view the VOYAGES framework established during South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s visit to India as a collaboration platform rather than just a government agreement. “This framework is a key to professional growth and a brighter maritime future for India,” Sonowal emphasized.
India’s aspirations for becoming a competitive global hub for shipbuilding, maritime manufacturing, and logistics align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Following the Cabinet’s approval of policy incentives in September 2025, Sonowal called for a stronger skilled workforce in various maritime roles, including shipbuilders, marine engineers, and designers.
He encouraged professionals to leverage their experiences from South Korea and facilitate connections between the two countries, stating, “You can serve as living bridges between your networks.” Sonowal also highlighted the importance of mentoring young Indian talents and participation in India’s Ship Technology Centre, as well as joint skill initiatives with the Korea International Cooperation Agency.
Seeking actionable insights, Sonowal requested input from the community on improving shipyard productivity, cultivating a competitive workforce, and bolstering technological cooperation between Indian and Korean industries. “We seek a strong partnership with Korea in shipbuilding, shipping, and maritime logistics,” he affirmed.
The Minister’s itinerary includes meetings with leaders from the global shipbuilding industry, engagements with maritime organizations, and think tanks. Sonowal is also scheduled to participate in a ministerial roundtable in Busan to commemorate World Maritime Day, engaging with representatives from leading maritime nations and the secretary-general of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
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