India, Singapore sign up for green, digital shipping corridor

India and Singapore have tied up to develop a green and digital shipping corridor.

Both nations signed a letter of intent to cooperate on maritime digitalization and decarbonization on Tuesday at the ongoing Singapore Maritime Week.

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore chief executive Teo Eng Dih, Indian ports ministry joint secretary R. Lakshmanan, Singapore’s senior minister of state in the ministry of sustainability and the environment and ministry of transport, Amy Khor, and Indian ports minister Sarbananda Sonowal were present during the signing.

Under the deal, both sides will identify relevant stakeholders, and work towards formalizing the partnership through a memorandum of understanding, a statement said.

India is a leading player in information technology with the potential to become a major producer and exporter of green marine fuels. Singapore, as a key transshipment and bunkering hub, also supports a dynamic research and innovation ecosystem.

The Singapore-India GDSC, when established, will enhance collaboration from both countries and help accelerate the development and uptake of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies and the adoption of digital solutions, the statement added.

Last year, both countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Singapore.