Shipbuilding Takes Centre Stage in India-South Korea Maritime Talks
New Delhi, October 26: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is in South Korea on a four-day visit, using the trip to introduce India's maritime opportunities to the country's industry leaders. The minister oversees the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
The ministry said the visit takes place as India and South Korea look to strengthen shipbuilding ties. The shared goal is to position India among the world's five leading shipbuilding countries by 2047.
The visit opened in Busan, which Sonowal described as a leading centre of Korea's maritime industry. He spent time with Indian professionals who work in the country's shipbuilding sector.
"To have you in Korea, one of the most advanced shipbuilding ecosystems in the world, is something India can be proud of," Sonowal remarked.
He explained that India needs many shipbuilders, marine engineers, naval architects, designers, welders, project managers and technology experts. He asked the professionals to bring their experience gained in Korea back home or to support Indian companies from where they are.
He also requested that the framework adopted during the April visit of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung should not be viewed as just another government agreement. The framework, called VOYAGES, spans shipbuilding, shipping and maritime logistics.
"I hope you will see VOYAGES as more than a government framework," he said. "It is a platform for your career growth and for India's maritime future."
Sonowal said the professionals could function as a living link between their networks in the two countries. He invited them to mentor young Indian talent and to participate in the shipbuilding skills partnership between the India Ship Technology Centre and the Korea International Cooperation Agency.
The minister also sought practical advice on raising shipyard productivity and improving project execution. He asked for recommendations on creating a globally competitive skilled workforce and on deepening bilateral industrial collaboration in technology, manufacturing and innovation.
"We want to partner with Korea in shipbuilding, shipping, ports and maritime logistics," Sonowal said.
India's efforts are shaped by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The objective is to build a world-class, competitive hub for shipbuilding, ship repair, marine manufacturing and logistics.
The programme during the visit includes meetings with heads of global shipbuilding companies, discussions with maritime industry bodies, and dialogue with maritime think tanks and research institutions.