IAPH India participates in UN ESCAP 2025 Asia-Pacific regional dialogue on sustainable maritime connectivity

The International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) India participated in the 2025 Asia-Pacific Regional Dialogue on Sustainable Maritime Connectivity, organized jointly by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) and the Government of India. The event, held at the Westin Mumbai Garden City from October 27 to 29, 2025, brought together approximately 35 global leaders, policymakers, and maritime experts to discuss sustainable, resilient, and inclusive pathways for maritime transport development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Representing IAPH, Dr Ennarasu Karunesan, Regional Director, delivered a presentation on “Port-to-Port Cooperation to Promote Smart Ports and Support Developing Countries.” His session formed part of “Advancing Green Shipping Corridors, Port Digitalisation and Inclusive Transport in Asia and the Pacific,” moderated by Sooyeob Kim, Economic Affairs Officer, UN ESCAP.

Dr Karunesan emphasised the importance of collaborative digital transformation among ports to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. He underscored IAPH’s commitment to enabling knowledge exchange, supporting developing nations in smart port adoption, and promoting data-driven decision-making to meet global environmental and trade goals.

The dialogue featured high-level representatives from UNCTAD, World Bank, IMO, Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), ADB, and national maritime authorities. Key discussions covered green shipping corridors, port digitalisation, gender inclusion, inland waterway connectivity, and regional cooperation frameworks. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Karunesan stated: “Sustainable maritime connectivity is fundamental to inclusive growth. Strengthening port-to-port collaboration and fostering smart technologies will drive Asia’s transition toward greener, more efficient, and future-ready maritime logistics.” He reiterated the IAPH President Jens Meier’s guiding motto, “Resilient by Design, Innovative by Nature”, reflecting the IAPH’s enduring commitment to adaptability, innovation, and sustainable port development.

The event concluded with a call for deeper regional partnerships, technology sharing, and coordinated actions to advance sustainable maritime transport across Asia and the Pacific.