Ladies and gentlemen,

Six months ago, we convened in Brussels for the first Fisheries and Ocean Dialogue. We are now continuing this vital journey of collaboration and commitment to our oceans future.

We acknowledged the ocean as a shared, vital, and vulnerable resource. Its health and resilience are crucial to our economies and planet.

The European Maritime Day is a platform for diverse voices — fishers, scientists, policymakers — to shape a sustainable future. As I mentioned in Brussels, the ocean speaks through its people: fishers noticing dwindling stocks, scientists warning of changes, and coastal communities relying on it.

We will soon launch the European Ocean Pact, a roadmap for action and cooperation. It addresses ecological, social, and economic challenges while offering opportunities. The Pact outlines six priorities: protecting ocean health, boosting the blue economy, supporting communities, advancing research, enhancing security, and strengthening diplomacy.

The Pact ensures policy coherence and long-term thinking. It will be a Commission Communication focusing on people, especially small businesses and coastal communities.

In June 2025, at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, the European Ocean Pact will be launched, showcasing Europes leadership and vision. It emphasizes shared responsibility and opportunity.

Lets work together for a thriving ocean and a sustainable future.

Thank you.