Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal recently began a four-day visit to South Korea to promote India's shipbuilding potential and strengthen maritime cooperation between the two countries. His visit included meetings with global shipbuilding companies, maritime industry bodies, and research institutions. He also participated in a ministerial roundtable marking World Maritime Day.
- Sonowal engaged with Indian professionals working in South Korea's shipbuilding sector.
- He highlighted the VOYAGES framework as a platform for maritime growth and professional development.
- India aims to become a global hub for shipbuilding and maritime logistics by 2030 and 2047.
- Policy incentives were approved to boost domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
- Sonowal encouraged knowledge sharing and partnerships between Indian and Korean industries.
What was the purpose of Sarbananda Sonowal's visit to South Korea?
Sonowal's visit aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation and attract partnerships with South Korea's shipbuilding industry. He sought to promote India's shipbuilding potential and encourage collaboration under the VOYAGES framework, which was adopted earlier in 2026 to deepen ties in shipbuilding, shipping, ports, and maritime logistics.
How did Sonowal engage with Indian professionals in South Korea?
In Busan, a major maritime hub, Sonowal met Indian professionals working with leading companies such as Samsung Heavy Industries, Hanwha Ocean, HD Hyundai, DNV, and the Indian Register of Shipping. He urged them to use their experience and networks to support India's maritime industry and serve as bridges between the two countries.
What are India's maritime goals under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047?
India aims to emerge as a globally competitive center for shipbuilding, ship repair, maritime manufacturing, and logistics. The government has approved policy incentives to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capabilities. To achieve these goals, India needs skilled professionals like shipbuilders, marine engineers, naval architects, designers, welders, project managers, and technology specialists.
How is India encouraging collaboration with South Korea in maritime sectors?
Sonowal invited Indian professionals in South Korea to mentor young talent and participate in initiatives like the India Ship Technology Centre and the shipbuilding skills partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency. He also sought suggestions on improving shipyard productivity, workforce development, and expanding cooperation in technology, manufacturing, and innovation.
What events and meetings were part of the visit?
Besides industry meetings, Sonowal participated in a ministerial roundtable in Busan to mark World Maritime Day. This event brought together representatives from major maritime nations and the secretary-general of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to discuss global maritime issues and cooperation.
Overall, Sonowal's visit to South Korea highlighted India's commitment to advancing its maritime sector through international partnerships, skill development, and innovation. The collaboration under the VOYAGES framework and related initiatives aims to position India as a key player in the global shipbuilding and maritime industry.
