Dear young people, esteemed guests, good morning.

It is an honor to open the 101st International Session of the European Youth Parliament here in The Hague. You are here to exchange ideas on Peace and Security.

As the European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, I want to highlight the importance of our oceans for peace and security. Our oceans provide food, energy, and jobs, but are under pressure from climate change and pollution.

The European Union is committed to international cooperation in ocean governance and aims for ambitious protection of marine ecosystems. We advocate for the ratification of the High Seas Treaty.

A healthy ocean is essential for a sustainable blue economy. The EU supports maritime spatial planning to coordinate activities at sea.

We must not only share and protect our oceans but also secure them. The EU has developed strategies to protect maritime infrastructure.

We are working on a European Ocean Pact to promote cooperation and sustainable oceans. This pact will contribute to resilience, prosperity, and peace.

You, the young people, are the future. The European Commission has launched various initiatives to involve young people more in policy-making.

I look forward to your contributions and wish you an inspiring week of debate.