Maritime and port activities serve as a key enabler of all dimensions of sustainable development and of deeper regional integration due to their vital role as the gateway for international trade. Despite the diversity of Asia and the Pacific region, which includes coastal countries, small island developing States or archipelago countries, there are several common issues that they all should consider in establishing their maritime and port development policies, such as supporting the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, achieving the greenhouse gas reduction targets, promoting technological innovation in the shipping and port industries and collaborating with the private sector to improve shipping performance.

Regular sharing of best practices and experiences on these and related issues can contribute to promoting better maritime transport connectivity as well as stimulating collective action for achieving SDGs. In recognition of this, the Regional Action Programme for Sustainable Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific (2022–2026), adopted at the Fourth Ministerial Conference on Transport in Bangkok in December 2021, includes a systematic regional dialogue on sustainable and resilient maritime connectivity, including the promotion of the development of low- and zero-emissions green shipping for Asia and the Pacific in close partnership with global and regional actors and the shipping industry.

The 2023 edition of the Asia-Pacific Regional Forum on Sustainable Maritime Connectivity will be held in Bangkok, Thailand and online on 30-31 May 2023. The event will bring together experts from the member countries and relevant organizations to engage on a wider array of issues relevant for strengthening and enhancing maritime connectivity in Asia and the Pacific, with a particular focus on Southeast Asia.