Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the importance of maritime partnerships in fostering global prosperity at the inaugural session of Sagarmanthan: The Ocean's Dialogue, a two-day maritime event in Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) and the Observer Research Foundation, the event has drawn over 1,700 participants from 61 countries, including global maritime leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and scholars.

In a special message, PM Modi highlighted India's vision for a free, open, and secure maritime network. “Our vision for a free, open, and secure maritime network — be it the Indian Ocean or the Indo-Pacific region — is finding resonance across the world. The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative envisions marine resources as a key pillar for growth for nations. This dialogue on oceans further strengthens the rules-based world order and enhances peace, trust, and friendship between nations,” he stated.

He called the event invaluable in shaping India's future maritime aspirations. “As we strive to realise the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, dialogues such as Sagarmanthan are invaluable to build consensus, partnerships, and, most importantly, a prosperous future. With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, I am confident that these discussions will resonate far and wide, paving the way toward a brighter, more connected future.”

PM Modi also underscored India's rich maritime heritage, referencing historic maritime accomplishments. “India's maritime tradition goes back several millennia and is among the richest in the world. The thriving port cities of Lothal and Dholavira, the fleets of the Chola dynasty, and the exploits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj are great inspirations. Oceans are a shared heritage for nations and societies, as well as the lifeline for international trade,” he said.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal opened the summit, outlining India's Maritime Vision 2047. He asserted that this roadmap aims to make India a global leader in maritime trade through sustainability, connectivity, and technological innovation.

“India's Maritime Vision 2047 is a roadmap to transform the maritime sector by fostering sustainability, enhancing connectivity, and leveraging technology,” Sonowal stated. He further elaborated on initiatives like Sagarmala, the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, and major infrastructure projects, including the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, mega ports at Wadhwan in Maharashtra, and Galathea Bay in Nicobar.

Sonowal highlighted India's significant investment of ₹80 lakh crore in maritime strategies to boost port capacity, improve shipping efficiency, and develop inland waterways. He also pointed to India's efforts in reducing carbon emissions through the Harit Sagar Guidelines and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Christos Stylianides, Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, praised Sagarmanthan for fostering global collaboration. “For us policymakers, it is crucial to ensure a stable regulatory framework and a global level playing field for the industry. What we need now is collaboration, and Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue is a great example in this direction,” he remarked. He stressed policies that align with sustainability’s three pillars — environmental, social, and economic.

Dr. Amzath Ahmed, Maldives’ Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, and Maria Lorena Villaverde, National Representative for Rio Negro, Argentina, also spoke at the inaugural session.

India's approach to maritime development integrates ecological preservation and innovation in energy. Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Shantanu Thakur highlighted the nation’s guiding principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — "The World is One Family."

“Our ports and shipping corridors are not just about commerce but about connectivity, collaboration, and care for coastal communities and the environment,” Thakur said.

Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, stressed the potential of the oceans. “The seas and oceans, gifts of nature, are abundant with resources, energy, and potential. It is our responsibility to harness them wisely, combining knowledge and skill to achieve sustainable growth,” he said.

On the sidelines of the event, Sonowal held bilateral discussions with Christos Stylianides, focusing on enhancing maritime ties between India and Greece. The discussions aimed at increasing trade and collaboration in the maritime sector.

The forum also provided a platform for discussions on maritime connectivity, decarbonisation, and sustainable shipping practices, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing global maritime cooperation.

With its blend of global insights and ambitious initiatives, Sagarmanthan: The Ocean’s Dialogue marks a significant step toward building a prosperous, sustainable maritime future for India and the world.