Singapore and France have signed an Enhanced Maritime Partnership Agreement, marking a significant step in maritime cooperation between the two nations. The agreement was signed by French Minister for Transport Philippe Tabarot and Singapore’s Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow during President Macron’s State Visit to Singapore. This partnership elevates the relationship between the countries to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Directorate General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture (DGAMPA) will collaborate on initiatives focusing on maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, cybersecurity, innovation, and training. This builds on a previous partnership established in 2021.
Key projects include developing a bio-methane supply chain and certification framework to align with sustainability standards. A bio-methane bunkering trial in Singapore, involving shipping company CMA CGM, is also planned. On digitalisation, MPA will work with HAROPA PORT and the Port of Marseille-Fos to enhance port call optimisation and maritime digitalisation, including trials on ship-to-shore data exchange.
The partnership also aims to foster maritime innovation and entrepreneurship through platforms like the PIER71TM Smart Port Challenge and ZEBOX. MPA Chief Executive Teo Eng Dih stated, “This partnership marks an important step in strengthening maritime collaboration between Singapore and France.” Eric Banel, Director General of DGAMPA, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strategic importance of cooperation in port digitalisation and green shipping.
This agreement underscores the shared commitment of Singapore and France to advance sustainable and secure maritime solutions, reinforcing their roles as global maritime hubs.
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