India-ROK Comprehensive Framework for Partnership in Shipbuilding, Shipping and Maritime Logistics Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea (ROK) convened during Lee’s state visit to India on April 20, 2026, to discuss a strategic collaboration framework for shipbuilding, shipping, and maritime logistics. The meeting focused on fostering mutual cooperation between government agencies and private entities to leverage the complementary strengths of both nations in maritime industries. India’s rapid economic growth and internationalization have elevated the maritime sector to a critical pillar of national security and prosperity, aligning with its Maritime Amrit Kaal 2047 Vision. The ROK, recognized for its advanced shipbuilding and maritime capabilities, was identified as a key partner to support India’s long-term maritime ambitions. The collaboration outlined during the meeting emphasized the establishment of large-scale greenfield shipbuilding clusters in India, supported by incentives under the Government of India’s Shipbuilding Development Scheme and state-level financial assistance. Indian officials invited leading ROK shipbuilders to act as technical and strategic anchors for these clusters, participating in design, production engineering, advanced manufacturing, and operational frameworks. The ROK expressed optimism about advancing this partnership, citing the potential for business sector involvement. A notable initiative highlighted was the non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Ltd. (HD KSOE), a cluster developer, and the Maritime Development Fund (MDF) for a greenfield shipyard in southern India. Both sides expressed hope for the project’s early implementation.#india #prime_minister_narendra_modi #president_lee_jae_myung #republic_of_korea #hd_ksoe
