India, S Korea to ink pact for seafarers, boost bilateral ties

Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation Minister Gadkari, who will be on a four-day visit to Korea beginning on Monday, said both the nations are also eyeing partnerships in shipbuilding, waterways and smart transportation, among others.

"Both the nations will sign an undertaking for mutual recognition of certificate of competency of seafarers. It will be beneficial to both the countries as Korea is a large ship owning nation, while India is a large seafaring nation with over 1.5 lakh seafarers.

"The agreement will facilitate Indian seafarers to work on Korean ships as there is requirement of seafarers. Korean entities as of now own more than 500 foreign going ships," Gadkari said.

Gadkari said signing of the undertaking, apart from creating job opportunities for Indian seafarers, will also pave the way for recognition of maritime education and training, besides various certificates for seafarers issued by the governments of both the countries.

"We are also looking to have partnership in the field of ship building, smart transportation system, water conservation & recycling, eco-friendly energy system for marine industries and technology to develop our rivers to drive economic growth," the minister said.

Gadkari's visit is aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations and further cementing cooperation in areas, including sharing of technology, experience in port development and operation and joint participation in port-related construction, building and engineering projects of mutual interest, among others.