On November 20, Hong Kong Maritime Week 2023 was launched to bring together maritime leaders home and abroad for a week of activities aimed at reinforcing Hong Kong's position as an international maritime centre.
International port: Chief Executive John Lee (fourth left) officiates at the opening ceremony of Hong Kong Maritime Week 2023.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Chief Executive John Lee said the National 14th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong's role in the global maritime sector with a focus on the development of high value-added maritime services.
He added that the city's professionals are here to contribute to adding important value to the prosperous development in Hong Kong, along the Belt & Road, and beyond.
“In the coming weeks, the Transport & Logistics Bureau will publish a detailed action plan on maritime and port development strategy.
“The plan will enhance high-end maritime services, facilitate transformation towards zero emissions, promote smart and digital initiatives in the industry, and promote global exchanges.”
The Chief Executive emphasised that Hong Kong is fully dedicated to leading the way in driving the green transformation of the maritime industry.
“We will actively advocate the use and supply of new energy in sea, land and air transport. In this regard, we will soon kick-start a feasibility study (into) providing green methanol bunkering for both local and ocean-going vessels.
“In the coming year, we will set out an action plan for the construction of bunkering facilities and (the) development of supply chains.”
Meanwhile, Maritime & Port Board Chairman and Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung said the Government will continue to give full play to Hong Kong’s distinctive advantage of being simultaneously connected to both the Mainland and the world.
“As the super-connector and super value-adder in the Greater Bay Area, we are working closely with our peers to promote the overall competitiveness of the region.”
Signature activities include the World Maritime Merchants Forum and the Asian Logistics, Maritime & Aviation Conference to discuss topics such as future-proofing supply chains and maritime technology.
Some 50 more activities organised by local, Mainland and international marine institutes will also take place seven days in a row. Some of the themes include building up the maritime talent pool, education and career, bay area development, green shipping, maritime insurance and ports and logistics.
Furthermore, the public can examine the M.V. Yu Kun, the nation's first developed ocean-going vessel dedicated for maritime training currently berthed in Hong Kong, and meet Dalian Maritime University delegation members who manage the ship.
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Xinde Marine News.
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