Gujarat to Explore Port-Led Urban Development at Vibrant Summit: Seminar to Host Industry Leaders and Experts
Gandhinagar: In a bid to unlock the potential of ports for urban development, the Gujarat Maritime Board will host a high-level seminar titled "Port-led Urban Development: Vision for the Future" during the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit. Scheduled for January 11, 2024, the interactive session will bring together key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia to delve into the possibilities and challenges associated with this dynamic approach.
Shaping Growth through Ports:
Gujarat Maritime Board Vice Chairman Rajkumar Beniwal (IAS) highlighted the program's objective: "We aim to explore and encourage the potential of port-led development models within the urban landscape. This seminar will offer a platform for diverse perspectives and expertise to contribute to Gujarat's economic growth and sustainability."
Power-Packed Agenda:
The day-long event will kick off with an inaugural session boasting eminent speakers, including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, and ambassadors from Belgium and the Netherlands.
Two panel discussions will form the core of the seminar:
- Port-Led Economic Opportunities: This session will delve into the economic potential of ports, featuring key figures like Jonathan Goldner (APM Terminals), Mohammed Ida Almenhali (AD Ports Group), and Rizwan Soomer (DP World).
- Integration of Ports with Urban and Industrial Development: This panel will focus on the interplay between ports and urban-industrial spaces, with panelists including Bart de Jong (Consul General of Netherlands), Auguste Tano Koume (World Bank), and industry leaders like Shashi Kiran Shetty (Allcargo Logistics).
Investment Momentum:
Beniwal emphasized the promising landscape surrounding the summit, stating, "The Gujarat Maritime Board has secured over 140 Investment Intention Forms (IIFS) and 50 Strategic Partnership MoUs in the lead-up to Vibrant Gujarat 2024. These commitments translate to potential investments of Rs 1.5 lakh crore and 90,000 jobs." Leading port and infrastructure companies like Adani Ports, DP World, and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel are expected to participate in the summit, showcasing their vision for the future.
Gujarat's proactive approach to harnessing the power of ports for urban development promises to spark insightful discussions and pave the way for innovative collaboration at the upcoming Vibrant Summit.
