DAMMAM — The Saudi Maritime Congress 2020, the pioneering maritime and logistics event held in partnership with Founding Strategic Partners Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) and Bahri, is set to welcome some of the leading international and local officials in the transport and logistics sector who will discuss international market trends in the oil and gas sector. Seatrade Maritime, organizers of Saudi Maritime Congress 2020, announced Tuesday that Minister of Transport Eng. Saleh Bin Nasser Al-Jasser will be delivering the keynote ministerial opening address on Day One (March 22) of the Congress, followed by the keynote address from Lawrence Barchue, assistant secretary-general and director, department for member state audit and implementation support, International Maritime Organization (IMO). Eng. Saad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalb, president, Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), Esben Poulsson, chairman, International Chamber of Shipping, and Eng. Abdullah Bin Ali Aldubaikhi, chief executive officer of Bahri, will be joining the keynote session panel to share insights and address key issues such as progress update of goals achieved under the Saudi Vision 2030 and opportunities for the domestic and international maritime and logistics companies in the Kingdom. Day One agenda will also feature panel discussions on trade relationships and the development of the Kingdom’s logistics infrastructure. Day Two (March 23) will provide attendees with the opportunity to join the leading industry experts addressing various topics of importance, including outlook for oil and gas transportation; environmental concerns and alternative solutions for the maritime industry; the Kingdom’s workforce and nationalization plans; data and analytics; risk management; and insurance. Chris Hayman, chairman of Seatrade, said: “Saudi Maritime Congress 2020 is intended to update the local and international maritime community with the leading developments and the hottest topics of concern within the Saudi maritime and logistics sector as the country continues to move ahead with the implementation of its goals under Saudi Vision 2030. We are proud to host high-profile local and international speakers who can shed light on the major questions facing the industry.” The two-day event expects to connect over 2,000 attendees this year and comprises both a conference and exhibition, which are free to attend for all visitors. — SG