“Check against delivery”

Dear President Macron,

Dear President Costa,

Dear Commissioner Kadis,

Distinguished Guests,

Europe is a continent of the sea with a close bond to the Ocean, featuring 70,000 kilometers of coastline. One in five Europeans lives by the sea, and our livelihoods depend on these waters. The Ocean provides sustainable food, clean energy, and facilitates three-quarters of our trade. It plays a crucial role in regulating our climate and combating global warming. The Ocean is our strongest ally, whether in Europe or globally.

However, neglecting the Ocean can lead to severe consequences. The forces that once supported our civilization can turn against us. We are already witnessing the effects: increasing storms, struggling coastal communities, and the resurgence of naval power politics. Europe must act as a maritime power to ensure the Ocean remains our ally now and in the future.

Today, we introduce the first European Ocean Pact, a vision for ocean governance with concrete actions. While Commissioner Kadis will detail the Pact, let me highlight key goals. First, we aim to protect ocean health and its resources. The Ocean sustains us, so we will halve plastic and nutrient pollution in five years and restore marine ecosystems by 2030 to better shield our communities against climate impacts.

Secondly, the Pact will foster economic growth in our coastal communities. Our fishers work tirelessly, yet they face challenges from extreme weather and unfair competition. We will support community resilience projects, prioritize small-scale fisheries, and ensure fair access to fishing opportunities. We will also assist in modernizing and decarbonizing our fishing fleets and developing sustainable business models that benefit both nature and communities.

Furthermore, the Ocean Pact will combat illegal fishing practices, which threaten both nature and coastal economies. We will establish regional partnerships to address illegal activities and implement digital registration of fish catches to prevent illegally caught fish from entering the EU. Together with our Member States, we can build viable blue economies and restore balance between humanity and the sea.

Colleagues,

We have one Ocean and one planet. As a maritime power, we must extend our vision globally. This brings me to my final point.

We aim to build a global alliance for the Ocean, as protecting it is a worldwide challenge. Today, I am pleased to announce that Europe is investing EUR 1 billion in 50 projects worldwide to support those who rely on the sea and to protect it. We will promote sustainable fishing in Tanzania, regenerate mangrove forests in Guyana, and safeguard coral and seagrass ecosystems vital for fish stocks. Knowledge is key for ocean conservation, so one-third of this funding will support research and scientific initiatives. Our new Ocean Observation Initiative will provide critical data about the ocean using global sensors, enabling accurate predictions and sharing knowledge with our partners.

Colleagues,

This is a pivotal day for the Ocean. We have a clear vision to protect our seas, fishers, and coastal communities. Now, we must transform this vision into action. Let us renew our commitment to our greatest ally and make a pledge today: It is time to turn the tide. Let us accelerate our efforts and ensure our Ocean thrives again.

Thank you.