The European fishing industry welcomes the European Ocean Pact

Brussels, June 5 (EFE).- The European fishing industry association Europêche welcomed the European Ocean Pact adopted Thursday by the European Commission and expressed optimism about the recognition of fishing within the framework of ocean governance.

The sector considered it "a valuable opportunity to safeguard access to traditional fishing grounds and address the growing restriction on space in EU waters."

"This pact represents an opportunity to align fisheries policies with a modern model of ocean governance. Europêche stands ready to work closely with EU institutions, Member States, and all stakeholders in the maritime sector to transform the vision of the Ocean Pact into a more positive future for our fishermen," said Europêche CEO Javier Garat in a statement.

The strategy aims to harness the ocean's potential to improve Europe's resilience, food security, energy supply, and competitiveness.

European support for the High Seas Treaty, which has now reached 28 ratifications and paves the way for its entry into force.

Assessment of the European fishing industry

Among the elements most valued by the fishing industry is a 2040 vision for fishing and aquaculture, which, together with the strategic review of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), "should facilitate a competitive and resilient sector, contributing to food security and sovereignty."

It also welcomes the launch of an EU-wide campaign on the benefits and added value of sustainable seafood produced in the EU, as well as a strategy for the development and resilience of coastal communities, and the planned strengthening of EU external action on fisheries.

However, Europêche acknowledged its concerns about the "lack of additional public funding" to support the objectives set out in the pact and that, although the main text refers to a possible revision of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), the annex is based on outdated 2020 objectives.

60% of critical habitat for marine biodiversity has no conservation targets

The European Commission adopted the "European Ocean Pact" on Thursday, an initiative to protect and restore coastal and marine habitats while boosting the maritime industry. It includes specific measures to help the outermost regions develop their full potential.

The Pact will bring together all policies related to the sea and coastal zones into a single framework. EFE

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