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Qatar tribune

Satyendra Pathak

Doha

Maritime transportation is the artery of world trade and keeping it sustainable through the power of technology and enhanced international cooperation has become a strategic necessity, Minister of Transport HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani said on Tuesday.

The minister said this while inaugurating the first edition of the “Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition” attended by several dignitaries, including ministers, Secretary-General of International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez, senior officials, ambassadors, CEOs from Arab and foreign countries, and key decision-makers from the shipping and maritime services industries.

The two-day inaugural edition of the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition in Doha focuses on identifying and addressing challenges facing the maritime transportation, ports, and logistics industries. Through in-depth discussions around key themes, the event aims to shape trends that will significantly impact maritime transportation and logistics both regionally and globally.

In his keynote address keynote speech to more than 350 distinguished industry attendees, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the Ministry of Transport’s hosting of this global event comes amid the continuing growth of Qatar’s maritime transportation industry. He emphasised Qatar’s substantial investments in infrastructure projects vital to this industry, leading to remarkable progress in commercial and tourist ports alongside supportive logisticservices.

Elaborating on the advancements at Hamad Port, the minister said that eco-friendly technologies and advanced infrastructure have transformed it into a pivotal regional re-export hub. The port’s global standing has surged, ranking 11th on the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) in 2023, up from 38th in 2020.

Discussing Doha Port, the minister noted that comprehensive developments have established robust infrastructure for the cruise industry, supporting national tourism plans and revenue generation through giant cruise ship trips. Al Ruwais Port, with sustainable improvements such as new quays, continues to play a crucial role in regional trade exchange.

The minister said that the national strategy for the logistics services industry is designed to enhance supply chains, support economic diversification, and boost Qatar’s status as a global shipping, transportation, and logistics hub.

“Qatar’s approach includes overseas investments in commercial ports to improve competitive capabilities, promote sustainable economic development, and foster long-term partnerships,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, the minister emphasised the Ministry of Transport’s goal of building regional and international partnerships to elevate Qatar’s global maritime position. “Our commitment to developing the maritime industry will stimulate trade, facilitate cargo transportation, and support economic growth,” he affirmed.

In his address at the conference, Milaha Group CEO Fahad Bin Saad Al Qahtani expressed pride in Milaha’s role as a major sponsor. He underscored Milaha’s commitment to advancing the maritime and logistics sectors, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030 to transform Qatar into a global trade and logistics hub. He described the event as an excellent platform to exchange ideas and explore innovative solutions for the future of maritime transport.

Mwani Qatar CEO Captain Abdullah Mohammed Al Khanji highlighted Qatar’s progress in infrastructure projects, including ports and logistics services. He noted that Qatar ranks 19th globally in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) 2023 and 14th in logistics service quality, reflecting significant improvements since 2018. Qatar also ranks 18th globally in economic competitiveness in foreign trade and 11th in business efficiency.

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani expressed confidence that the exhibition would shape a promising future for Qatar’s maritime industries. He highlighted Qatar’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and strong trade relations as key factors enhancing its role as a commercial and logistics center. QFZ’s Marsa Maritime in Umm Alhoul Free Zone, offering integrated services and direct access to Hamad Port, supports Qatar’s economic diversification goals.

Speaking on the occasion, Seatrade Maritime Group Director Chris Morley said, “When it became clear to us just over a year ago that we had a shared vision with our Founding Strategic Partners Mwani Qatar and our event patrons and hosts, the Ministry of Transport, it was obvious that success was going to thrive through partnerships.

“The value of collaboration and shared goals has propelled Qatar to the exciting position it is in today: a maritime and energy hub that inspires others, stimulates global opportunity and propels innovation in industrial sectors.

“For us, driving growth in Qatar’s maritime and logistics sectors through our capabilities both in this event and throughout the year in our online news and content platforms is long overdue and we’re delighted to be starting this journey today.”

Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO Ahmed Hassan Al Obaidly said, “Seatrade Maritime Qatar serves as a vital platform for industry leaders to collaborate, innovate, and drive the future of maritime transport. As Mowasalat (Karwa), we are committed to shaping a seamless and sustainable mobility ecosystem that integrates land and sea transport. Our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting Qatar’s vision of becoming a premier maritime hub. By embracing smart and eco-friendly transport solutions, we aim to enhance connectivity, improve accessibility, and contribute to the nation’s long-term economic and infrastructure growth.”

“Our participation in Seatrade Maritime Qatar is invaluable as it provides a unique platform to foster strategic partnerships, share industry insights, and explore innovative solutions in sustainable shipping and digital transformation. As Qatar continues to prioritize its investments in the LNG sector, it reflects the country’s dedication to play a key role in the energy transition, shaping the future of sustainable maritimetransportation.”

Following the opening session, the minister and other dignitaries toured the exhibition, exploring cutting-edge maritime technologies. The first day of the conference featured four sessions: maritime shipping and sustainability, marine energy transformation and LNG’s role, smart and green ports as sustainable logistics hubs, and strategies for building and sustaining local maritime talent.

Seatrade Maritime Qatar serves as a critical platform for fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth in the maritime sector, solidifying Qatar’s position as an emerging globalmaritime hub.

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05/02/2025
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