Sarbananda Sonowal spotlights India’s maritime growth and sustainability efforts in Singapore

Published on Authored by C to I News Desk

On Monday, March 24, India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted India’s transformative maritime initiatives during the high-level dialogue on ‘Navigating Global Maritime Trends in 2025 and Beyond’ at the Singapore Maritime Week.

Sarbananda Sonowal attending a panel discussion at the Singapore Maritime Week. Photo courtesy: x.com/sarbanandsonwal
Sarbananda Sonowal attending a panel discussion at the Singapore Maritime Week. Photo courtesy: x.com/sarbanandsonwal

Speaking at the event, Sonowal emphasized that these efforts, under the “visionary leadership” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are driving progress in global shipping by improving connectivity, strengthening supply chains, and enhancing the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in India.

He also noted that India is laying the groundwork for a robust shipbuilding industry while prioritizing sustainability, including the development of Green Shipping Corridors. “Guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, these steps are shaping a maritime future that is green, secure, efficient and inclusive,” Sonowal tweeted.

The minister, who is on a three-day visit to Singapore at the invitation of the Singapore government, is focusing on strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries.

On the sidelines of Singapore Maritime Week, he has engaged in discussions with counterparts from various nations to further this goal.

“Delighted to attend the inauguration of the Singapore Maritime Week 2025. Really glad to listen to the inaugural address by former Prime Minister and Senior Minister HE Lee Hsien Loong, who spoke on the growing India-Singapore maritime ties,” part of his tweet read.

“It is an honour to represent India at the annual gathering of the international maritime community, as we look to foster global collaborations & showcase India’s potential as a future-ready maritime investment destination,” Sonowal shared on X.

The minister also held productive discussions with industry leaders, underscoring India’s immense maritime opportunities.

In addition to his engagements with the international maritime community, Sonowal met with senior Singaporean government ministers, including Lee Hsien Loong, Murali Pillai, and Dr. Amy Khor.

He also had a bilateral discussion with French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot, focusing on strengthening India-France maritime ties and their shared role in the global shipping industry.

Earlier in the day, Sonowal interacted with the Indian diaspora in Singapore. On Sunday, he visited the INA Memorial in the city, accompanied by the High Commissioner of India to Singapore.