Over 200 maritime and energy sector leaders have convened with governments and private sector stakeholders for the Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit, the largest gathering of this kind. 

 

The summit held discussions to set a course for the industry to provide recommendations to both the COP28 Presidency and the IMO in partnership with the Emirates Shipping Association (ESA). 

 

Capt Abdulkareem Al Masabi, Chairman of the ESA emphasised the importance of facilitating dialogue within the maritime community, with sustainability in the spotlight. “It is crucial for the maritime community to unite on world stages, to address the world’s biggest challenges, namely decarbonisation. Together we can form partnerships, exchange best practices, and explore innovative solutions, to meet the IMO sustainability goals set and achieve net zero by 2050.” 

 

Collective wisdom

Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman, International Chamber of Shipping said: “This is the first time that shipping had a large presence before. The collective wisdom and expertise of our industry’s brightest minds will help us navigate the challenges of decarbonisation, with innovation and determination. Together, we will create a sustainable future for the maritime sector and leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship”. 

 

Collaboration to foster economic growth

The event highlighted the role of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in launching the UAE Maritime Cluster to promote the country's maritime sector globally. The cluster brings together organisations and individuals in the sector to enhance the UAE's position as one of the top global maritime hubs and contributes to the Projects of the 50 initiatives. By uniting their capabilities, the cluster aims to strengthen the UAE's position as a key contributor in the maritime industry.

 

Anders Ostergaard, Secretary- General of ESA and Group CEO of Monjasa, said: “The UAE is creating a thriving, ambitious and collaborative shipping industry, and we all witnessed the evolution of the country becoming a true global metropolis. We are prioritising dialogue with the public and private sectors to continue to develop the industry and deliver on our ambitions.”--TradeArabia News Service