India-Denmark Maritime Relations: A Green Strategic Partnership

India and Denmark are strengthening their maritime relations, focusing on sustainable practices. Their Green Strategic Partnership covers quality shipping, port state control, green maritime technology, shipbuilding, and smart ports. A revised MoU now includes a Centre of Excellence in India, highlighting their commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Maritime relations between India and Denmark continue to strengthen, with both nations working closely to advance sustainable maritime practices, an official statement said on Wednesday.

The statement further stated that under the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, collaboration has expanded across key areas such as quality shipping, port state control, green maritime technology, shipbuilding, and green shipping.

Denmark, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, has been sharing its expertise in green and digital solutions, in alignment with India's goals under the Sagarmala initiative and the Maritime India Vision 2030.

According to the statement, the scope of the MoU signed in 2019 and revised in 2022 has been widened by adding a dedicated clause for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in India.

This addition underscores the commitment to deepening expertise in green maritime technologies and fostering knowledge exchange between the two nations.

Denmark's expertise in port digitalisation, automation, and cybersecurity has been instrumental in helping India achieve its vision of becoming a global leader in smart ports.

Commenting on the partnership, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated, 'India and Denmark's collaboration in the maritime sector is a testament to shared commitment towards sustainable development and innovation.' Both countries aim to enhance port infrastructure and shipping capabilities, while setting a global benchmark in green maritime practices.

As part of the Joint Action Plan on Green Strategic Partnership (2021-2026), both countries will continue collaborating on port modernisation, maritime digitalisation, green fuel development, and advanced seafarer training.