The Indian delegation led by Shipping and Ports Secretary T.K. Ramachandran noted that despite efforts, there are currently 44 active cases involving 292 Indian seafarers. India's strong stance on the need for effective measures and monitoring to resolve these issues was welcomed.
India, an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with greatest interest in international maritime trade, emphasized the urgent issue of abandonment of seafarers.
In recognition of its continued commitment to addressing seafarers' issues, India secured its position as one of the eight governments representing the IMO in the Joint Tripartite Working Group. This group is dedicated to identifying and addressing seafarer issues and the human element in maritime operations. Other proposed members include the Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the United States and France.
"India remains deeply committed to addressing the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensuring the safety and well-being of our maritime workforce. India's participation in the IMO Council session underlines the dedication to cooperation and international maritime innovation. The establishment of the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainability Maritime Transport is a testament to India's leadership in promoting environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced maritime practices. We look forward to collaborating with global partners to drive positive change. in the maritime sector," Ramachandaran said.
The Indian delegation also addressed concerns over disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and adjoining areas, which have been affecting shipping and trade logistics.
Highlighting India's commitment to maritime security, the delegation cited two major incidents in which the Indian Navy successfully intervened.
These included the rescue of a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, MV Marlyn Luanda, and the interception of the MV Ruen off the coast of Somalia, ensuring the safety of crew members and effectively managing piracy threats. .
Additionally, India reiterated its proposal for the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainable Shipping (SACE-SMarT). This regional center aims to transform the Indian and South Asian maritime sector into a technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable and digitally competent industry.
The Center will focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering technical cooperation, capacity development and the digital transition.
India's leadership in evolving SACE-SMarT in collaboration with IMO's global Maritime Technology Cooperation Centers (MTCC) was highlighted as a significant step towards sustainable maritime development.
The 132nd session of the IMO Council, which began on 8 July 2024, will continue until 12 July 2024, addressing various issues and proposals critical to the future of global maritime operations.
India, an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with greatest interest in international maritime trade, emphasized the urgent issue of abandonment of seafarers.
In recognition of its continued commitment to addressing seafarers' issues, India secured its position as one of the eight governments representing the IMO in the Joint Tripartite Working Group. This group is dedicated to identifying and addressing seafarer issues and the human element in maritime operations. Other proposed members include the Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the United States and France.
"India remains deeply committed to addressing the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensuring the safety and well-being of our maritime workforce. India's participation in the IMO Council session underlines the dedication to cooperation and international maritime innovation. The establishment of the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainability Maritime Transport is a testament to India's leadership in promoting environmentally sustainable and technologically advanced maritime practices. We look forward to collaborating with global partners to drive positive change. in the maritime sector," Ramachandaran said.
The Indian delegation also addressed concerns over disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and adjoining areas, which have been affecting shipping and trade logistics.
Highlighting India's commitment to maritime security, the delegation cited two major incidents in which the Indian Navy successfully intervened.
These included the rescue of a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, MV Marlyn Luanda, and the interception of the MV Ruen off the coast of Somalia, ensuring the safety of crew members and effectively managing piracy threats. .
Additionally, India reiterated its proposal for the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainable Shipping (SACE-SMarT). This regional center aims to transform the Indian and South Asian maritime sector into a technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable and digitally competent industry.
The Center will focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering technical cooperation, capacity development and the digital transition.
India's leadership in evolving SACE-SMarT in collaboration with IMO's global Maritime Technology Cooperation Centers (MTCC) was highlighted as a significant step towards sustainable maritime development.
The 132nd session of the IMO Council, which began on 8 July 2024, will continue until 12 July 2024, addressing various issues and proposals critical to the future of global maritime operations.
