Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal held bilateral talks with Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez to strengthen maritime cooperation, with both sides outlining a broader strategic partnership anchored in logistics, shipping, maritime security, skill development and digital transformation.
The discussions underscored the complementary strengths of both nations, with India’s expanding maritime ecosystem and Panama’s position as a global logistics hub offering scope for deeper integration. Sonowal described Panama as a “natural maritime partner”, highlighting the potential to build resilient supply chains, boost global connectivity and unlock new avenues for trade, investment and innovation across regions.
Both sides reaffirmed their long-standing maritime relationship, dating back to the 19th century, while also acknowledging the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening bilateral ties. With India emerging as a key player in port-led development and Panama continuing to serve as a critical node in global shipping, the ministers agreed that enhanced collaboration and exchange of best practices could significantly expand trade and investment flows across the Americas.
Panama outlined four priority areas to scale up cooperation: maritime security, technical collaboration between India’s Directorate General of Shipping and the Panama Maritime Authority, maritime education and skilling, and digital transformation initiatives such as artificial intelligence, smart port logistics and maritime single-window systems.
Highlighting India’s maritime growth trajectory under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sonowal pointed to ongoing investments across ports, inland waterways, shipbuilding, logistics, cruise tourism and green shipping. He reiterated that Panama could serve as India’s gateway to Central America, Latin America and the Caribbean, calling for improved shipping connectivity and stronger institutional cooperation to unlock untapped bilateral trade potential.
The Indian minister also proposed fast-tracking a bilateral agreement on maritime transport and port development, alongside expanding cooperation in green ship recycling, seafarer welfare, skill development and port modernisation. Collaboration in warehousing, maritime infrastructure and digital innovation was also identified as a priority.
Sonowal further invited Panama’s Minister of Maritime Affairs to participate in India Maritime Week 2026 in New Delhi, as both countries agreed to advance discussions through sustained institutional engagement.
