EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries hosts first EU-China Blue Partnership Forum for the Oceans

In Brussels, Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella will host the first ‘Blue Partnership Forum for the Oceans’. The Forum, established under the Ocean Partnership between the EU and China in July 2018, will bring together EU and Chinese stakeholders. They will help shape future actions in the areas covered by the Ocean Partnership, such as ocean governance, a thriving blue economy and sustainable fisheries.

Ahead of the event, Commissioner Vella said:” China and the EU are major ocean players. We should use our joint influence to take the lead globally and ensure the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans. We want our partnership with China to go beyond words and deliver tangible results. ” The Forum will be followed by a high-level dialogue co-chaired by Commissioner Vella and Administrator of State Oceanic Administration of China Hong Wang.

In July 2018, the European Union signed an ocean partnership agreement with China. Two of the world’s largest ocean economies will work together to improve the international governance of the oceans in all its aspects, including by combating illegal fishing and promoting a sustainable blue economy.

Source: ONtheMosWay