Developed by Marseille-based Syroco, Syroco Live combines a digital twin of each vessel, live operational data and weather and ocean forecasts to recommend routes and engine power settings. Recommendations are delivered on the bridge and shared with shore-based operations, so masters and operations teams work from the same voyage plan, with a focus on fuel efficiency, schedule reliability and safe navigation.

Ms Alicja Jasinska, Shipping Director of EuroAfrica said: “EuroAfrica is committed to modernising the way we operate our fleet, and fuel efficiency is one of the most direct levers we have, both for our costs and for our emissions. Today, four of our vessels use Syroco every day, giving our crews and our operations team a shared view of how each voyage can be sailed more efficiently.”

Captain Tomasz Szatkowski, master of M/V ESL Australia, said: “Syroco Live is very easy to use and provides actionable recommendations. The Syroco Onwatch support team has been particularly helpful in assisting the crew with monitoring and interpreting recommendations, which has made a real difference in confidence and efficiency at sea. A good example of this was our late 2025 voyage from Gdynia, Poland, to the Polish Antarctic station, where weather routing played a vital role in ensuring safe passage to this remote destination.”

Alex Caizergues, Founder and CEO of Syroco, added: “The decision to scale came from results measured on board, on routine liner voyages as well as on a passage to Antarctica. What matters most to us is that the crew of ESL Australia relied on the recommendations day to day. Adoption on the bridge is what turns a pilot into a fleetwide deployment.”

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Release By Intent Communications Ltd

Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Istanbul provides a natural meeting point for shipbuilders, shipowners, equipment manufacturers and technology providers. With approximately 7,000 maritime professionals expected to attend, Europort Istanbul offers a platform for international business development, knowledge exchange and cross-border cooperation.

“The maritime industry is facing shared challenges, from decarbonisation and digitalisation to a need for stronger international supply chains. No single market can address these challenges alone,” says Raymond Siliakus, Director of Europort. “Europort Istanbul connects the people, technologies and expertise our industry needs to move forward.”

BlueBridge Maritime Istanbul Forum: turning innovation into practical solutions

New for Europort Istanbul 2026, the BlueBridge Maritime Istanbul Forum will take place on 4 and 5 November. The two-day conference will bring together technology providers, shipyards, shipowners and industry specialists to address some of the maritime industry’s most pressing operational and technological challenges.

The programme will focus on how emerging technologies can be translated into measurable improvements in efficiency, safety and environmental performance.

BlueBridge sessions will include Fuelling the Transition: Alternative Fuels, Bunkering & Practical Pathways to Decarbonisation, and AI & Predictive Maintenance, with key presentations focusing on smarter measurement, energy efficiency, voyage optimisation, automation and cybersecurity. The forum will also examine the global position of Turkish shipyards, including their technological competitiveness and readiness for the industry’s transition towards more sustainable and digitally connected operations.

“With the introduction of the BlueBridge Forum, we’re creating a highly focused opportunity for those joining us in Istanbul to turn knowledge and new connections into real progress,” adds Siliakus. “By focusing on real-world applications rather than future ambitions alone, our aim is to connect innovation with the operational needs of maritime businesses.”

International pavilions strengthen global maritime connections

Europort Istanbul 2026 brings together a truly international maritime community. Alongside strong participation from the Turkish maritime industry, the 2026 edition will welcome 64 individual international organisations, as well as national pavilions from the Netherlands, China and Poland.

For the first time, an Africa Pavilion will join the event, with Douala City Council from Cameroon among the confirmed exhibitors. Ms Beti Assomo Reine, Technical Adviser No. 2 at Cameroon’s National Port Authority, will also contribute to the conference programme, bringing valuable perspectives from Cameroon’s maritime sector.

Together, these companies and pavilions make Europort Istanbul a place to meet new suppliers, discover international expertise and build connections across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Connecting international expertise with Türkiye’s shipbuilding industry

With growing demand for energy-efficient vessels, modernisation projects and advanced marine technologies, Europort Istanbul also creates opportunities for cooperation between Turkish shipyards and international suppliers. As home to more than 85 active shipyards, Türkiye has developed a strong reputation in ship construction, repair, conversion and specialised vessel development.

Building partnerships beyond the exhibition floor

Alongside the exhibition and conference programme, Europort Istanbul will provide opportunities for targeted business networking.

The MariMatch B2B matchmaking event, taking place on 5 November, will facilitate meetings between Turkish and international companies interested in developing new business relationships, technology partnerships and collaborative projects. An additional online matchmaking day on 12 November will allow participants to continue conversations beyond the exhibition.

By combining an international exhibition floor, with a comprehensive knowledge-based programme and structured business networking, Europort Istanbul 2026 aims to strengthen connections across the global maritime value chain.

For more information on Europort Istanbul 2026, visit: www.europort.com.tr.

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Release By JLA Communication

The milestone marks significant growth for Mintra’s business, with its training and OCS HR solutions now supporting 3 million users across the global maritime and offshore sector. Since entering the maritime training market in 2021, Mintra has seen exponential growth from almost zero vessels to the 15, 000 vessels of today.

Reaching 15,000 vessels, positions Mintra among the largest providers of digital training and HR technology to the maritime sector. The growth has come through a combination of increased demand from new and existing customers, continued investment in technology and targeted acquisitions that have expanded the company’s capabilities and international reach.

“Reaching 15,000 vessels is an important milestone, but what matters most is what sits behind that number,” said Kevin Short, CEO of Mintra. “It reflects the trust our customers place in us to support their people and operations, and the growing role that digital technology plays in managing competence and workforces in an increasingly complex sector.

“We have deliberately invested in building a broader business, combining our established expertise in digital learning and workforce management with new technology and specialist capabilities. Our acquisitions, together with continued investment in our own products and people, have helped us expand our reach while staying focused on what our customers need.”

Together with Mintra’s established operations and customer base, targeted acquisitions have contributed to a broader international footprint. The acquisition of US-based Moxie Media expanded Mintra’s presence in North America, while Greek maritime training specialist SQLearn brought further expertise and customer relationships in a major European shipping market.

Mintra has also continued to invest in technology that supports the changing needs of maritime workforces. Its immersive learning solution provides affordable and accessible scenario-based training onboard without requiring specialist simulator equipment, while Mentor AI gives seafarers access to trusted information drawn from Mintra content and customer documentation at the point of need.

“Reaching 15,000 vessels gives us a strong platform for the next stage of our growth,” said Kjetil Flood, Chief Commercial Officer at Mintra. “Our customers operate across different markets, vessel types and regulatory environments, but the need for effective workforce management and accessible training is consistent.

“Having a growing presence across Europe, North America, Asia, India and other key maritime markets means we can bring together expertise from across the industry, while continuing to invest in solutions that work for customers wherever they operate. Our focus is on building long-term relationships and finding solutions that are practical, accessible and useful to the people who rely on them every day.”

The milestone comes during a period of continued recognition for Mintra. In 2026, the company retained its position as a Core Leader in the Fosway 9 Grid for Digital Learning and achieved the Learning and Performance Institute’s Gold Standard accreditation for the 16th consecutive year. Mentor AI has also been named a finalist in the Crew Connect Global Awards 2026 Innovation and Technology category as well as the Safety4Sea 2026 Digitalisation Awards.

With more than 15,000 vessels now using Mintra solutions, the company is continuing to expand its reach across the maritime sector whilst investing in technology and partnerships that support the development and management of safety-critical workforces across the globe.

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Release By Image Line Communications

“As we continue to expand our inland logistics fleet, reliability, efficiency and operational consistency remain important considerations,” says Darlan Carvalho, President, LHG Mining. “The Wärtsilä 20 engine platform has proven well suited to our application, and this follow-on order allows us to build upon an established concept while supporting the long-term development of our transport operations.”

In addition to the engines, Wärtsilä’s scope also includes tools and spare parts, a specific fuel oil consumption guarantee, commissioning support and an extended warranty. This comprehensive package is designed to support the performance, availability and operational efficiency of these tugs.

“This contract represents another important milestone in our collaboration with both LHG Mining and Wärtsilä,” says Fabio Vasconcellos, Commercial Director, Estaleiro Rio Maguari. “The project builds on experience already gained through the earlier vessels and helps ensure efficient execution as we continue delivering modern river transport assets for the Brazilian market.”

The order further strengthens Wärtsilä’s presence in South America’s inland waterway sector, where vessel owners are increasingly seeking solutions that combine operational efficiency with long-term flexibility. The Wärtsilä 20 engine offers high fuel efficiency and can operate on a range of fuels, including biodiesel blends, helping operators adapt to evolving operational and regulatory requirements.

“Inland waterways play a vital role in moving essential cargo efficiently and reliably across South America. As operators continue to invest in growing and modernising their fleets, they need partners that can support both their operational needs today and the long-term performance of their assets throughout the vessel lifecycle. This repeat order reflects the confidence placed in Wärtsilä’s technology, local expertise and long-term support capabilities, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with LHG Mining and Estaleiro Rio Maguari on this important project,” says Mário Barbosa, General Manager – Sales Latin America, Wärtsilä Marine.

The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery during 2027. This new order follows an earlier contract from 2025 covering the same engines for four similar vessels. Wärtsilä’s relationship with LHG Mining extends beyond engine supply through service agreements covering other vessels within its fleet. By combining equipment expertise with lifecycle support, Wärtsilä helps maximise vessel reliability, availability and performance, thereby supporting the predictable and uninterrupted transport of commodities across the operator’s trading network.

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Release By Cision

Participating in the session “Seafarers of the Future,” Mr Bhatnagar will present research exploring seafarers’ attitudes towards nuclear-fuelled vessels. The study examines the human dimension of emerging marine propulsion technologies, offering insights into specialised training, risk preparedness and workforce strategies for safer nuclear shipping.

The announcement brings workforce readiness into focus within the conference theme, “Maritime Landscape 2030: Opportunities and Challenges.” As the industry examines future fuels and propulsion systems, the session will address how seafarers understand these technologies and what preparation they may require to work with them safely.

The research will contribute to discussion on the relationship between technological development and the people responsible for operating tomorrow’s vessels. Its emphasis on attitudes, awareness and preparedness provides a practical starting point for considering future maritime training and workforce needs.

INMARCO 2026 is supported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways* and the *Directorate General of Maritime Administration, with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass as Platinum Supporter.

Across three days, the conference and concurrent exhibition will provide a platform for maritime professionals, policymakers, researchers, technology providers, educators and students to exchange knowledge on the sector’s development towards 2030.

The wider programme will examine alternative fuels, maritime decarbonisation, greener ports, vessel efficiency, financing the transition, sustainable ship recycling and the future maritime workforce. Technical presentations will connect research with the operational and training questions facing the industry.

Student engagement will also form part of the event through the INMARCO Students’ Corner, with activities designed to encourage technical learning and interaction between maritime institutions and industry professionals.

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Box

Event: INMARCO 2026 — International Maritime Conference & Exhibition 

Theme: Maritime Landscape 2030: Opportunities and Challenges 

Dates: 27–29 October 2026 

Venue: The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake 

Organiser: The Institute of Marine Engineers (India)

Registration and participation information: https://2026.inmarco.in/

A sweeping new coffee table book that traces over two millennia of Maharashtra’s history has been unveiled by Heritage India Communications Pvt Ltd. Titled Gift of the Sahyadris: The Story and Glory of Maharashtra, the 280-page publication chronicles the region’s evolution from the Satavahana era in the 1st century CE to the formation of the state of Maharashtra on May 1, 1960.

The announcement was made in Mumbai in the presence of Dr Tejas Garge, Director of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Maharashtra, who attended as Chief Guest, while noted screenwriter Unman Bankar, one of the writers of the blockbuster film Chhaava, was Guest of Honour.

The book arrives at a time when Maharashtra’s rich heritage is receiving increasing global recognition. In 2025, twelve forts from the Maratha Military Landscapes were inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, joining Ajanta and Ellora among the state’s internationally celebrated historical treasures. The publication seeks to provide readers with the broader historical context behind these landmarks and the forces that shaped Maharashtra over the centuries.

Speaking at the announcement, Manjiri Khandekar, CEO of Heritage India, said, “Marcus Garvey once said that a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots. For the last 20 years, our endeavour has been to strengthen those roots. As a tourism, publication and educational house, we believe the best way to celebrate history is to make it accessible and relevant to the common man, and maps, pictures and illustrations help us do that. Our last coffee table book, Punyakatha: Pune’s Story of a Million Years, was well-received for both the depth of its content and the richness of its presentation. So, when Kalyani Sardesai, who wrote Punyakatha for us, wanted to tell 2,000 years of Maharashtra’s story, I knew a dull approach would not do. The scale had to be equally lavish, and the presentation fun, colourful and engaging. Having published the Heritage India and Maharashtra Unlimited magazines, we had both the know-how and access to scholarly expertise.”

The book has been written and creatively visualised by journalist and author Ms Kalyani Sardesai, who combines historical research with storytelling to make Maharashtra’s past accessible to contemporary readers. Ms Sardesai also shares a close connection with the maritime community as the wife of Capt Sailesh Sardesai, who is associated with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines.

Explaining the premise behind the project, Ms Sardesai said, “The last thing Maharashtra needed was yet another history book. What it needed was its story. This book is unique in its scale, its ambition and the sheer stretch of time it covers. Through dramatisation and poetry woven into the history, we have tried to show readers, at every point, why this story matters to them and how it connects to their lives.”

Designed for readers aged 12 and above, the book explores how the Sahyadri mountain range influenced the region’s geography, culture, spirituality and political history. It journeys through Maharashtra’s ancient, medieval and modern eras, covering its celebrated cave heritage, the rise of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Peshwa period, social reform movements, the growth of education and journalism, and the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement that ultimately led to the birth of the state in 1960.

The publication also highlights the contributions of saint-poets, women leaders and the distinctive identities of Vidarbha, Marathwada, Konkan, Khandesh and Western Maharashtra. Contributions from illustrators and a panel of noted historians further enrich the narrative.

The book will be formally launched by industrialist Dr Abhay Firodiya on October 31, 2026, at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune. Positioned as both a collector’s item and an educational resource, Gift of the Sahyadris aims to offer readers a deeper appreciation of Maharashtra’s remarkable journey through history.

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At a Glance (add the image of the book)

Title: Gift of the Sahyadris: The Story and Glory of Maharashtra

Publisher: Heritage India Communications Pvt Ltd

Pages: 280

Price: ₹2,500

Order Online: www.heritage-india.com

The conference is supported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) as Platinum Supporter.

As shipping prepares for changing fuels, technologies and environmental requirements, INMARCO 2026 will provide a forum to discuss practical pathways towards a safer, more efficient and sustainable maritime sector. The programme will connect policy discussions with the operational challenges facing shipowners, ports, equipment manufacturers, maritime institutions and seafarers.

Key areas of discussion will include zero and near-zero greenhouse gas emission fuels; readiness for ammonia, methanol and hydrogen bunkering; greener ports and shore power; energy efficiency and the decarbonisation of existing fleets; and financing the maritime energy transition. The conference will also examine India’s opportunities in shipbuilding, maritime technology and services, alongside sustainable ship recycling, seafarer safeguards and training for tomorrow’s ships and fuels.

A maritime exhibition running alongside the conference will provide a platform for equipment manufacturers, technology companies and service providers to present their capabilities and engage with industry stakeholders.

Technical research and innovation

Technical paper presentations will form an integral part of INMARCO 2026, providing researchers and practitioners with opportunities to share ideas and examine emerging solutions.

Among the featured technical speakers is Deputy Commandant Rahul Prasad of the Indian Coast Guard, participating in the session “Engineering Tomorrow’s Fleet.” His presentation will explore a marine propulsion concept involving seawater-derived hydrogen, renewable energy and intelligent management for future shipping.

The panel for technical paper evaluation comprises Anjan Kumar Sahu, Mohan Singh Pal, Shobhit Kapoor, Jyotisman Dasgupta and Capt. Kishore Sunderesan.

Engaging the next generation

The INMARCO Students’ Corner will give aspiring maritime professionals opportunities to participate in technical papers, model making, video and poster making, panel discussions, a quiz competition and an advanced soft skills workshop.

A programme highlight is the Students Quiz Competition for the Bhuneshwer Saraswat Memorial Trophy, scheduled for 28 October at 6 p.m. in Hall C. The announced participating institutions include IMU Chennai, IMU Kolkata, HIMT College and AMET University.

By bringing students into the wider industry conversation, INMARCO 2026 aims to encourage technical curiosity, professional exchange and closer connections between maritime education and practice.

Established in 1982, INMARCO is a quadrennial event organised by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India). It serves as a platform for knowledge sharing among industry, regulators, academia and maritime practitioners.

Maritime professionals, organisations, researchers and students can find registration and participation information at https://2026.inmarco.in/.

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The maritime fraternity is set to gather once again for the Riya Marine-Marex Media 14th edition of Kashti – The Musical 2026, to be held on 21 October 2026 at the iconic Sri Shanmukhananda Fine Arts & Sangeetha Sabha, Sion East, Mumbai.

Recognised as one of India’s most anticipated maritime community gatherings, Kashti has, over the years, evolved into more than just a musical evening. It has become a platform that celebrates the people, partnerships and values that underpin the global shipping industry.

This year’s edition carries special significance, not only with the much-awaited return of celebrated playback singer Hema Sardesai after an 18-year hiatus from the Kashti stage, but also through a powerful theme that reflects the realities of today’s maritime landscape.

Under the banner of “Maritime Matters”, the event will highlight the indispensable role of shipping in sustaining global trade, economic development and everyday life. Complementing this message is “Seafarer Lives Matter”, a tribute to the men and women at sea, honouring those who have lost their lives in conflict zones and recognising the courage and resilience of seafarers who continue to keep world trade moving despite unprecedented challenges.

Leading the industry’s support for the event is Riya Travel And Tours (India) Pvt Ltd, whose longstanding association with the maritime sector aligns closely with the spirit of Kashti.

“At Riya Marine Travel, our commitment to the maritime community has been at the heart of everything we do since 2001. Over the past 25 years, we have strived to be a trusted travel partner to seafarers, shipowners, and crewing teams, understanding the people and responsibilities behind every journey. We are delighted to look forward to Kashti 2026 alongside Marex Media, an opportunity to connect with industry peers, exchange perspectives, and strengthen the relationships that drive our industry forward. We remain committed to supporting the maritime community and the people who keep it moving.” said Nitin John, Vice Chairman, Riya Travel And Tours (India) Pvt Ltd.

The event is being made possible through the collective commitment of leading maritime organisations and institutions, including Anglo-Eastern Ship Management (India) Private Ltd and Seaspan Crew Management India Private Limited, alongside d’Amico Ship Ishima India, The Great Eastern Shipping Company Limited (GESCO) and The Maritime Union of India. Further industry participation comes from Elite Mariners, Ganpat University, MASSA, Patel International, Sea Bird Medicare, Seaarland Management Services, TBO, and Tolani Maritime Institute.

As preparations gather momentum, Kashti 2026 promises to combine entertainment, networking and industry camaraderie with an important message of recognition and gratitude. Against the backdrop of music and celebration, the event will serve as a reminder that while shipping keeps the world connected, it is the dedication and sacrifice of seafarers that keep global commerce afloat.

On 21 October, the maritime community will come together not only to celebrate through music, but also to reaffirm a shared belief: Maritime Matters. Seafarer Lives Matter.

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Held under the theme ‘A Cleaner Coast Starts with Champions Who Act’, the initiative brought together volunteers to remove litter and debris from the shoreline and promote responsible waste disposal. The programme was conceptualised earlier this month around the birthday of SHM Shipcare Chairman Saifuddin Hajee, reflecting the company’s close connection with India’s coastal communities and the marine environment.

The Mumbai drive assumes significance at a time when marine litter and plastic pollution continue to threaten coastal ecosystems, marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of communities dependent on the sea. By mobilising volunteers and local stakeholders, SHM Shipcare aims to convert environmental awareness into tangible, community-led action.

Commenting on the initiative, Mohammed Hajee, CEO – Marine & Fire Safety, SHM Shipcare, said, “The sea is central to everything we do, and protecting the coastal environment is a responsibility we all share. Through this clean-up drive in Mumbai, we hope to encourage collective action and demonstrate that small, consistent efforts can create a meaningful impact on the health of our coastline. Keeping our beaches clean requires both awareness and action. By bringing volunteers together, we aim to encourage responsible habits and greater participation in protecting India’s coastal environment.”

The Mumbai clean-up forms part of SHM Shipcare’s broader CSR engagement across environmental and community initiatives in coastal regions. Through such programmes, the company seeks to support local conservation efforts, strengthen environmental awareness and contribute to the long-term protection of India’s coastline.

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Release By Adfactors PR

Ensuring ethical conduct in maritime operations requires more than corporate policies and compliance frameworks. It demands practical support, clear reporting mechanisms and collective accountability across the maritime value chain. This was the key message that emerged from the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) India’s Every Conversation Matters workshop held in Chennai on 30^th September.

Hosted at The Presidency Club, a longstanding meeting venue for members of the Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI), the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), the workshop brought together a diverse cross-section of industry stakeholders, including shipowners, port agents, maritime professionals and seafarers, to discuss practical challenges in maintaining ethical standards during port calls.

The event drew strong participation, with 50 attendees representing various segments of the maritime industry. The gathering also included cadets from the Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training (HIMT), underscoring the importance of engaging the next generation of maritime professionals in integrity and compliance initiatives.

A central theme of the discussions was the disconnect that can exist between corporate zero-tolerance policies and the realities faced on the ground. Participants highlighted concerns ranging from uncertainty surrounding port clearances and commercial pressures to apprehensions that reporting improper demands could result in operational delays or affect future vessel calls.

Industry representatives stressed that responsibility for addressing such challenges should not rest solely with ship Masters or local port agents. Instead, effective anti-corruption efforts require robust internal procedures, accessible reporting channels and visible support from company leadership to ensure individuals are empowered to act without fear of repercussions.

The workshop also underscored the critical role played by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the maritime ecosystem. Participants noted that local agents, sub-agents and service providers are indispensable to port operations and must be actively included in industry-wide initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and ethical business practices.

Discussions further explored the possibility of establishing measurable integrity standards for port agents, alongside practical measures such as improved documentation processes, greater transparency in transactions and stronger support mechanisms for those who refuse to comply with improper requests.

One of the workshop’s notable features was the Commitment Wall, where participants pledged to champion ethical conduct within their respective organisations. Commitments focused on strengthening management accountability, encouraging open reporting, supporting seafarers and advancing anti-corruption awareness throughout the industry.

The workshop was led by Capt Nilesh Murdeshwar of MACN India, Capt Vivek Menon, Chief Operating Officer, MACN, and Ms Helene Schulz, Member Relations and Event Coordinator, MACN, who facilitated discussions and engagement among attendees.

The Chennai gathering reinforced an important industry message: maritime integrity becomes meaningful only when ethical principles are consistently applied in daily operations and supported at every level of the organisation. As the sector navigates evolving regulatory and operational challenges, collaborative efforts such as these continue to play a vital role in fostering more transparent, accountable and resilient port operations.

MACN India reaffirmed its commitment to encouraging dialogue, strengthening partnerships and driving collective action aimed at advancing integrity across the maritime industry.

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