In the sprawling waters off Dongxing, a marine ranch sprawls under the watchful eye of an aerial drone, capturing a snapshot of China’s burgeoning maritime ambitions. This image, taken on December 16, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for sustainable ocean development, a theme echoed in a groundbreaking report released on World Oceans Day at Shanghai Maritime University (SMU). The report, “A Maritime Community with a Shared Future and Sustainable Ocean Development — Joint Actions of China and Its Global Partners,” is a clarion call for international collaboration in marine sustainable development, ecological protection, and technological innovation.
Chu Beiping, president of SMU, didn’t mince words when he highlighted the severe challenges confronting the world’s oceans. “The concept of a ‘Maritime Community with a Shared Future’ proposed by China provides new insights into global ocean governance,” Chu stated, underscoring SMU’s commitment to ocean sustainable development. The report, presented by Xie Xi, deputy dean of the National Ocean Research Institute, and Zhang Yan, dean of the College of Foreign Languages, paints a vivid picture of the oceans’ strategic value and development potential, while also acknowledging the stark disparities and environmental threats they face.
Xie Xi pulled no punches, stating, “The oceans have become a focal point of great power competition.” This geopolitical reality, coupled with the increasing importance of marine economies and the looming threats of environmental degradation, sets the stage for a complex and urgent global challenge. The report identifies several key pathways for sustainable maritime development, including technological innovation, shared governance rules, cultural exchange, and maritime security measures.
Awni Behnam, honorary president of the International Ocean Institute, endorsed the report, emphasizing the need for multilateralism and international law in ocean governance. “We are entering an era of shared responsibility,” Behnam asserted, highlighting the transnational nature of ocean challenges and the necessity of collective action.
The report is a bold attempt to communicate China’s ocean governance concepts and policy proposals to the international community. It weaves together traditional Chinese cultural wisdom with contemporary global challenges, offering a unique perspective on maritime development and security. The launch event, attended by maritime experts, scholars, and representatives from over 20 countries, was a testament to the global interest and engagement in these issues.
Wang Zhongcheng, a professor at SMU, highlighted the importance of green ship power technology in the shipping industry’s low-carbon transformation. Meanwhile, Thong Viro, deputy director general of the Administration and Harbor of Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in Cambodia, discussed port and shipping cooperation between China and Cambodia, proposing further initiatives for collaboration. Rizka Ardya, representing Frontier Logistics Indonesia, underscored the Chinese shipping industry’s contribution to global economic development.
This report and the discussions it has sparked are more than just academic exercises. They are a call to action, a challenge to the status quo, and a roadmap for the future of our oceans. As the maritime industry grapples with the complexities of sustainable development, ecological protection, and technological innovation, this report serves as a beacon, guiding the way towards a more collaborative and responsible future. The question now is, will the industry rise to the challenge? Will it embrace the spirit of shared responsibility and collective action? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the future of our oceans depends on it.