Fu Xuyin, vice-minister of the ministry, stressed the need for Asia-Pacific countries and regions to overcome challenges such as geopolitical conflicts and protectionism, urging a commitment to win-win cooperation and the joint promotion of healthy shipping development in the region.

"We should uphold green and safety principles to enhance the region's maritime advantages, embrace reform and innovation to expand the scope of maritime cooperation, and work together to maintain a fair and just shipping order while contributing to the development of global shipping," Fu said.

In a video message, Arsenio Dominguez, secretary-general of the International Maritime Organization, recognized APHoMSA's pivotal role as a regional platform. He called for closer collaboration between Asia-Pacific member institutions and the organization to address the opportunities and challenges posed by issues such as maritime safety, seafarer empowerment, and the decarbonization of shipping.