India is collaborating with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to enhance maritime cooperation, improve cruise shipping connectivity, and promote sustainable tourism in the Indo-Pacific. The country is hosting the second edition of the ASEAN Cruise Dialogue, marking the first time the event is held in India. Officials aim to develop a cruise route similar to the Caribbean, which typically involves sailing through several ports before returning to the starting point.
In Tamil Nadu, India is organizing a high-ranking multilateral meeting that brings together representatives from all ASEAN member states, including Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. This dialogue is a crucial part of efforts to enhance regional cooperation in cruise shipping and tap into its untapped potential.
Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the importance of advancing maritime collaboration to boost the cruise industry across the Indo-Pacific. Delegates will visit Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historic temples and rock sculptures. This visit emphasizes the potential of guided cruise tourism and India’s rich cultural offerings, contributing to sustainable tourism and improved ASEAN-India connectivity.
The Indian government envisions the ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue as a regular forum to support regional maritime growth and enhance people-to-people connections, positioning both India and ASEAN at the forefront of cruise tourism in the Indo-Pacific.
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