HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad attends three cooperation agreement signings between ASRY, AD Ports
Manama, June 12 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bapco Energies, attended the signing of three cooperation agreements between the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY) and Abu Dhabi Ports Group (ADPORTS:ADX), a major player in global trade and logistics, to expand cooperation in key maritime sectors.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad said the agreements mark a significant step in Gulf cooperation and advances the Kingdom of Bahrain’s position as a regional centre for sustainable marine industries and services, supporting the shift towards a circular economy.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad emphasised the belief that investing in quality partnerships is key to making Bahrain more competitive in vital sectors like marine industries and logistics. His Highness noted that these agreements represent a strong example of Gulf expertise working with international partners, opening new opportunities for growth, especially in dry dock management, shipbuilding, and environmentally responsible ship recycling, which highlightes a commitment to sustainable development and innovation.
The first agreement establishes a joint company to manage dry docks and shipyards, making use of both parties’ facilities. This will boost dry dock and shipbuilding capabilities in the Gulf Cooperation Council and support expansion into other markets.
The second agreement aims to explore cooperation in port management and operations.
A third agreement was signed with JM Baxi, a key player in marine services, ports, logistics, and technology, to develop facilities for sustainable ship recycling. This aims to promote the circular economy by reusing ship parts and reducing waste, which helps cut carbon emissions. The recycling process will be environmentally responsible, helping to conserve natural resources and reduce pollution.
Captain Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of Maritime and Shipping Cluster at AD Ports Group, expressed optimism following the success of the joint venture with ASRY. He highlighted the intention to enhance the partnership in shipbuilding and dry dock services, building on their strong ties.
He added that the agreement would help achieve more and accelerate growth in their operations. He also emphasised a particular focus on developing advanced, environmentally friendly ship recycling facilities and ensuring ships are withdrawn from service in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
On his part, Dr. Ahmed Al Abri, CEO of ASRY, expressed pride in expanding the strategic partnership with AD Ports Group through the new agreements. He explained that the collaboration builds on shared expertise and advanced infrastructure, aiming to boost dry dock and shipbuilding capabilities in the GCC and beyond, develop green ship recycling, and enter the important field of port management and operations. He underlined that these steps confirm a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and growth in the maritime sector.
These agreements build on the ASRY Marine joint venture, set up between Noatum Maritime (part of AD Ports Group) and ASRY, to provide a full range of marine services in Bahrain.
This new cooperation is a strategic move to boost the maritime capabilities of both parties and expand their regional reach, encouraging investment, innovation, and growth in the sector.
