Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, took part in the second Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference (SMIC 2025), held in Jeddah on September 3–4 under the theme “Sailing Towards a Sustainable Future.” The event, hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority, gathered global maritime leaders, ministers, ambassadors, and organizations including the IMO and IALA.
In his remarks, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla stressed Bahrain’s dedication to advancing sustainability in maritime transport, highlighting the role of innovation and modern technology in boosting efficiency and reducing emissions. He noted that Bahrain’s active participation in such forums reflects its commitment to regional and global cooperation, aligned with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and its ambitions to strengthen logistics and trade hub capabilities.
During the ministerial session, he addressed challenges such as COVID-19 disruptions, climate change, and geopolitical tensions impacting maritime security. He called for enhanced digitisation, stronger public-private partnerships, and a holistic integration of sustainability and security to safeguard environmentally friendly shipping corridors.
He also outlined long-term priorities, including regional collaboration to cut emissions, the development of green shipping corridors, standardised digital platforms and emissions reporting, and sustainability funds to support innovation and SMEs. The conference further explored advanced maritime technologies, digitisation, cybersecurity, carbon reduction strategies, and financial solutions for green growth.
