ASA’s first International Shipping Forum
A series of top executives addressing the Asian Shipowners’ Association’s first International Shipping Forum (ISF) voiced their optimism concerning cooperation to overcome the challenges of the future. The ISF, held at the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore, addressed ‘Blue and Safe Shipping’ and enabled Asian voices to express themselves.
Guest of honour Teo Eng Dih, Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) chief executive, kicked the meeting off with his opening remarks emphasising mutual trust and cooperation in shipping. Kitack Lim, the secretary general of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), reiterated the urgency for the shipping industry to move towards decarbonisation.
Guy Platten, the secretary general of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), said that three pillars are key to the goal of net-zero carbon emissions. These are global economic measures – a ‘fund and reward’ proposal; a clean energy marine hubs initiative; and ensuring a just and equitable transition for seafarers.
Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 is also one of the ASA’s goals. (lh)