Good morning, friends of the ocean,
It is an honor to be here today as we launch the second edition of the European Ocean Days.
Im delighted to welcome you all to Brussels and to those joining online. We have gathered ocean experts, marine scientists, fishers, policymakers, community leaders, youth, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across Europe to discuss the significance of our oceans, seas, and waters. A big thank you to my colleagues in the European Commission and our partners for organizing this inspiring week.
The European Ocean Days go beyond events; they symbolize the EUs commitment to a sustainable blue economy and ocean protection, celebrating your hard work that shapes our current policies.
Oceans cover over 70% of the Earths surface, regulating climate and providing essential resources for life. Yet, challenges like overfishing, plastic pollution, and climate change persist. This years events explore our oceans future, share success stories, and discuss innovative solutions. Its a chance to exchange ideas, learn, and progress toward shared ocean goals.
Let me introduce the European Ocean Pact initiative. This aims for coherence across EU ocean-related policies, with clear objectives:
- Developing a competitive and sustainable blue economy;
- Protecting and restoring ocean health and resilience;
- Building a robust marine knowledge framework;
- Establishing global ocean governance;
- Enhancing coastal community resilience;
- Ensuring implementation through a governance model.
Well discuss the Ocean Pact further during our sessions.
Todays agenda includes Young Voices for the Ocean and the Youth Policy Dialogue, allowing me to discuss ocean policies with 16 young people from across the EU. Young voices matter, influencing the European Ocean Pact and the blue economys future. Listening to youth is a priority for this Commission, as emphasized in President Von Der Leyens guidelines.
In the afternoon, panels focus on career opportunities in the blue economy, youth engagement in ocean conservation, and what it means to be a blue citizen. During breaks, visit the JRC SciArt exhibition, relax with ocean sounds, or network at Ocean Literacy Island. Before closing, our Ocean Literacy Coalition launches the #MakeEUBlue campaign, urging cities to support ocean sustainability initiatives. Get involved to ensure no city is left behind.
The week continues with significant events. The 3rd Mission Restore Our Ocean and Waters Forum will highlight efforts to restore oceans, and Fisheries and Ocean Dialogues will unite stakeholders to shape the European Ocean Pact. Well address fisheries future, biodiversity, and ocean health.
A session on the European Institute of Technologys call for a new Knowledge and Innovation Community on Water and Marine Sectors will provide funding information for innovative projects. At Blue Invest, investors and innovators explore investment opportunities and sustainable solutions, with workshops on innovation and sustainability. The week concludes with Marine Knowledge for the European Ocean Pact, focusing on observation, data, research, and citizen science for informed decision-making and policy shaping. The Fisheries and Ocean Science Seminar will offer insights into current research and advice on fisheries and ocean health.
Lets make this week about learning, sharing, and working together for our oceans better future.
Enjoy a productive week, and I look forward to our discussions and actions.
Thank you